United get title dream back on track

Dundee United got their Championship title aspirations back on track with a 2-0 win against Dunfermline at Tannadice.

Following successive away defeats to Alloa and Queen of the South, United manager Robbie Neilson was pleased with an improved display from the Tangerines.

First-half goals from Lawrence Shankland and Nicky Clark were enough to earn all three points.

Neilson said: “I was pleased with the way we responded. We have had a difficult couple of weeks.

“The lads showed good character, especially to control things the way we did in the first half.”

Dunfermline boss Stevie Crawford admitted his side paid for a slow start.

He said: “We gave United a foothold in the game by losing the early goal.

“That was extremely disappointing.”

Arbroath continued to be the surprise package in the league with a 3-1 win at Partick Thistle.

The part-timers took the lead through Luke Donnelly in the first half before Stuart Bannigan levelled from the penalty spot just before the hour mark.

Michael McKenna put Dick Campbell’s side back in front before Colin Hamilton sealed the win.

Campbell said: “I like how everyone keeps writing us off.

“We have got a good team and I don’t think my goalie had a save to make in the first half.”

Alloa Athletic came from 2-0 down to earn a draw with Queen of the South.

Stephen Dobbie and Jack Hamilton put the Doonhamers in the driving seat but second-half goals from Alan Trouten and Kevin O’Hara earned the Wasps a point.