Neilson hails United fans after striker’s late heroics

Robbie Neilson watched strike hero Lawrence Shankland save United’s proud home record – then thanked their fans for sticking by them.

Morton came within seconds of becoming the first team to win at Tanandice in the league this season after Kalvin Orsi’s first-half header gave them the lead.

But Shankland claimed a last-minute leveller with his 26th goal of the campaign to stretch the Arabs’ lead at the top to 18 points over Inverness.

And boss Neilson saluted their supporters’ patience.

Neilson said: “It’s very easy for fans to get restless but they showed their togetherness and belief in the team. They could have got disappointed and left before the end.

“But we gave them something back in the 89th minute. The lads kept pushing and gave them something to shout about. All credit to the players for keeping our home record going – we’re proud of it.

“It’s another important step to the title. We’ve gained another point and that’s what the league is all about at the end of the day – getting more points than everyone else.”

Ton took a shock lead in 17 minutes and in spectacular style. Nicky Cadden’s cross from deep was perfect for Orsi, who surged past Liam Smith to bullet a header past Benjamin Siegrist from six yards. United had plenty possession and Shankland fired over in the second half before Jamie Robson glanced wide from close- range as the clock ticked down.

But just as it looked as though Ton would hold on for a stunning win, Shankland found a yard at the far post and nodded home Smith’s cross.

Morton boss Hopkin said: “I ’ m delighted with the performance.

“We knew they were going to get a chance. And with a minute to go, it falls to the wrong person.”