Ross County suffered their second league defeat in a row as they suffered a surprise defeat at bottom club Dundee United.
Billy Mckay’s penalty nine minutes from time was enough to separate the sides as United manager Mixu Paatelainen celebrated his first win since taking over from Jackie McNamara.
County manager Jim McIntyre made an enforced change before the kick-off when left back Jamie Reckord suffered an injury in the warm-up. Former Aberdeen and Rangers defender Richard Foster took his place in the starting line-up.
The visitors, who arrived at Tannadice fourth in the Scottish Premiership, were energetic in the opening exchanges but it was the home side, bottom of the league, who showed more attacking intent.
John Rankin’s shot was saved by Staggies goalkeeper Gary Woods before the home side had a penalty appeal waved away after Billy Mckay’s shot struck Richard Foster’s arm.
Another fine save from Woods to keep out a deflected header from Jackson Irvine kept United out again as the home side pushed for an opener but it was the visitors who finished the half strongly with Tony Dingwall denied a spectacular opener as United goalkeeper Michal Szromnik tipped his 25 yard strike over the crossbar.
County were forced into another defensive change within minutes of the second half when captain Andrew Davies was stretchered off following a clash of heads with United’s Ryan McGowan before John Souttar fired wide for the home side.
County looked to have weathered the storm as they took control midway through the second half but their hopes of finding a winner were undone by a rash challenge from midfielder Martin Woods on United’s Scott Fraser in the penalty area which resulted in a penalty award for the home side.
Mckay converted the spot kick, sending Gary Woods the wrong way to put his side ahead.
Midfielder Woods came close to redeeming himself with a long range effort but his 30 yard strike clipped the crossbar before Aidan Conolly was sent off after earning two cautions for fouls on Michael Gardyne.
But United held on to give Paatelainen his first win.