Harkes the hero for United as off-field incident in spotlight

Ian Harkes was once again the hero as Dundee United claimed a crucial northeast derby win over Aberdeen to go joint third with Hearts.

But this game will, sadly, be remembered for reasons other than football.

Police Scotland confirmed yesterday a 35-year-old man has been charged following an altercation involving Aberdeen star Funso Ojo and a United fan.

The incident occurred after Ojo’s momentum carried him towards the home crowd after he won a tackle.

Moments before the Ojo clash came the first red card of the game.

Calum Butcher was shown a straight red by referee Robert Madden.

He claimed mistaken identity as Aberdeen star Christian Ramirez lay on the Tannadice turf, following an initial clash with Ryan Edwards.

Ramirez is by no means an innocent party.

The American striker pushed United defender

Ryan Edwards over. Edwards then squared up to Ramirez and, in the melee that followed, Butcher appears to sneakily catch the Dons striker outof-sight from Madden.

Madden was wise to the off-the-ball incident and instantly produced the red card.

United ended a twogame losing streak with their fifth 1-0 win of the season.

Single goal victories over Rangers, St Johnstone, Dundee, Ross County and Aberdeen have been key to United’s success.

They haven’t helped United’s goal difference but underline how this side have found a way to win under Tam Courts.

This game could have gone either way.

But there is an incredible spirit about United right now.

There is a real togetherness on the pitch and the players are getting a tremendous backing from the Tannadice crowd.

And few would back against it leading United into a European spot come the end of the season.

Boss Tam Courts knows how to grind out wins at United.