Utd fans can patience . . .

degree of criticism is justified. Having gone into the Livi clash with confidence boosted by those recent wins, United should have been able to cope with the loss of an early goal better than they did.

After Danny Mullen’s seventh-minute opener, they lost their way for a big chunk of the first half. There was an improvement after the break when lengthy periods of pressure were exerted.

Even so, not enough clear-cut chances were created and then another sloppy goal was lost, hence the jeers on the final whistle being something about which the players could have no complaints.

Poor as the play was, not one of the 13 men used could be criticised for lack of effort. At times, the thought process could have been better and the number of bad choices made when in possession was another cause of frustration.

If there was another criticism it was that United wanted to play too much nice football against a team intent on making the proceedings a battle. That’s not the main strength of McKinnon’s side but, in this league, it’s something they have to be prepared to do. Opposing teams are not going to sit back and let them play their preferred passing football.

None of those criticisms change the fact this is a team that’s been improving. Hopefully, Saturday was a blip. That’s why, as Barlow says, United fans should have a little patience — at least for a few more weeks.

in despair as their side tumbles to a 2-0 defeat to Livingston at the Tony Macaroni Stadium.