Dundee United secured a coveted European spot by overtaking Aberdeen into fourth place in the Scottish Premiership with an impressive 2-1 comeback victory.
Danish forward Jeppe Okkels gave Aberdeen an early lead just 15 minutes in, scoring his first goal since joining on loan from Preston. However, Dundee United gradually gained momentum, and in the 56th minute, defender Declan Gallagher equalized with a header from a Glenn Middleton corner.
Striker Sam Dalby then put United ahead with a penalty in the 62nd minute. Following a thrilling finish and a pitch invasion by jubilant home fans, Jim Goodwin’s side emerged fourth, potentially qualifying for the UEFA Europa League.
Aberdeen can reclaim that position if they win the Scottish Cup against Celtic next week; however, that scenario seems unlikely, given Celtic’s dominant form.
Meanwhile, St Mirren managed a commendable 1-1 draw against Celtic at Parkhead, but it wasn’t enough to change their sixth-place finish. Both teams entered the match struggling; Dundee United faced four consecutive defeats post-split while Aberdeen had lost their last three, including a heavy 5-1 loss to Celtic.
Before the match, Jimmy Thelin’s side had already secured European football and created the first chance within seven minutes, with United goalkeeper Dave Richards skillfully saving a 20-yard shot from Pape Gueye.
Aberdeen’s pressure paid off when midfielder Leighton Clarkson sent Graeme Shinnie racing down the flank. After a scramble in the box, Okkels capitalized on a loose ball, finding the net from 10 yards out.
Dundee United responded assertively in the second half; Kristijan Trapanovski narrowly missed a chance just six yards out. Despite some missed opportunities, Gallagher’s goal followed a series of corners, leveling the score.
A pivotal moment occurred when referee John Beaton awarded a penalty for a foul on Ryan Strain by Okkels, allowing Dalby to convert and seal the victory for United. The momentum had clearly shifted in their favor, capping off a remarkable final day for the Terrors.
