Dundee United secured their first win in 12 games with a late penalty from Jamie McGrath to defeat Hibernian 2-1. The Tangerines came into the game at Tannadice without a victory since early December, but a determined performance saw them claim all three points. In what was a closely contested match, it was McGrath’s spot-kick in the 87th minute that proved to be the decisive moment. The win moves Dundee United seven points clear of the relegation zone and provides a much-needed boost for manager Micky Mellon and his players.
Dundee United claimed their first victory in 12 cinch Premiership matches after Jamie McGrath scored a last-minute penalty winner against Hibernian. Steven Fletcher had given United an early lead against his former club before missing one of two excellent chances the home side had to extend their advantage. Substitute Mykola Kuharevich equalised in the 70th minute following some slack defending and Kevin Nisbet hit the bar with a free-kick for Hibs, who were made to pay for a clumsy challenge by Will Fish on Fletcher. Jim Goodwin’s first win as United manager at the fifth attempt cut United’s deficit on Ross County back to two points and moved them just three behind Kilmarnock. Hibs suffered a fourth consecutive defeat to remain only one point above seventh-placed Livingston with two matches until the split. Before the match, United welcomed back Ivan Golac, the manager for the club’s first Scottish Cup triumph in 1994.
Despite Hibs dominating possession and chances in the second half, it was United who snatched a surprise late win. On-loan Manchester United defender Will Fish conceded a penalty in the closing moments of the game, gifting Jamie McGrath the chance to seal the win for United. Hibs manager Lee Johnson criticised Fish’s challenge as ridiculous but the defender had a chance to make amends at the other end but failed. Dundee United were in control in the first half, sitting deep and playing behind the ball before Steven Fletcher scored an unchallenged goal after seven minutes. Hibs were unable to grab any clear-cut chances until Kuharevich equalised 20 minutes from the end. However, despite coming close to a win themselves, Hibs were made to pay for poor defending and conceded the crucial penalty in the end.
After a 12-game winless streak, Dundee United finally secured a victory by beating Hibernian 2-1 in a thrilling match. Jamie McGrath’s late penalty was the deciding factor, sparking jubilant scenes at Tannadice Park. The result lifts Dundee United up the Scottish Premiership table and will provide a much-needed boost of confidence for the team. Hibernian put up a strong fight, but ultimately came up short in their bid to take points away from Dundee United. Both teams will now look to build on this result moving forward, with Dundee United hoping to turn their season around and Hibernian aiming to consolidate their position in the top half of the table. It was an entertaining match from start to finish, and a great advertisement for Scottish football. Congratulations to Dundee United on their hard-fought victory!
