12th man are playing a key role: Courts
Tam Courts felt Dundee United’s lack of a grip on the game in Dingwall meant they drew no advantage from the County red card.
Harry Clarke’s sending off might have set the hosts on the back foot, but instead they bounced back to grab a point.
Courts felt it was uncharacteristic from a Tangerines team who have held out for a number of single goal wins this season.
United manager Courts admitted: “It was gutting in the end.
“We expected a tight, physical game and that’s how it transpired.
“It probably wasn’t high on quality. The biggest positive was our fans today – they were tremendous from first minute to last.
“I’m just frustrated we couldn’t see it through. We’ve had a few 1-0 victories this year and normally the players can see it through, but it is always precarious. “We saw that today.
“We have an over-riding objective which is to hang on to the teams at the very top for as long as possible.
“We’re frustrated to pass up the opportunity to move joint second but, by the same token, looking at the game from first minute to last, a draw was probably fair.
“We absolutely came here for the victory and got our noses in front which typically for us would be enough to see it through.
“A point is a little bit frustrating.” If anything the sending off worked against United.
Courts stressed: “Our attitude and application was pretty evident, but we lacked a bit of control and composure.
“So even when they went down to 10 men, because we didn’t have that real control, it was almost negligible.”
Courts also praised United scorer Louis Appere, who filled in as striker – and impressed.
“It was a great composed finish. He has a lot of first team experience and we sometimes forget that,” he said.
“He played as a striker today and it was great to see him rewarded.
“He has given me food for thought. We’re missing a few players. A number have been very consistent for this club this year, but I’m looking forward to some returning to give me that headache.”