“I thought we deserved our point and was very happy with the team overall. In the first half they threw a lot at us, but from the strikers back, we defended very well,” said Gordon today.

“In the second half, we kept it tight, but started to get at them a bit as well and might have won it at the end. I was particularly pleased with another clean sheet — that’s two in a row and now it it’s about going on and making sure we take the next step on Saturday.”

United’s best chance of victory was a late Barry Robson strike that was headed off the line and, although there were those who felt the midfielder should have scored, his manager had no complaints about the effort or Robson’s overall contribution.

“Barry did very well to make the chance and if anything he struck it too well. The ball’s hit the bar after their defender blocked it and that’s the sixth or seventh time this season he’s struck woodwork. After the game his head was down because of that, but I think he can be pleased with his play. He was playing wing-back, saw the player he was marking taken off early and, even late in the game, was getting into their box, so I’m not going to criticise him.”

Just to add to his frustration at being denied by the frame of the goal yet again, Robson also felt the ankle problem that’s dogged him this season. He, though, should be fit for the journey to Falkirk.

This afternoon, the reserves were in league action against Rangers at Clyde. Yesterday’s bench were involved, though Collin Samuel was an injury doubt.

The Falkirk game is all-ticket, while briefs are also on sale at the club shop for the October 30 TV clash with Celtic.

United have dismissed speculation linking another manager with Gordon Chisholm’s job. Reports stated Ross County’s John Robertson had been approached, but that has been rubbished by chairman Eddie Thompson. “Gordon Chisholm has my full support and we have not approached anyone, it’s as simple as that,” he said.

In addition to hitting the target, his manager felt he showed signs of his true ability and is hopeful of more to come from Ferguson as the season progresses.

“We had a chat with Andy quite early on after we arrived here and told him what was required. Now he is showing why he got the move here in the summer and that’s encouraging,” said Alan.

“In terms of physical presence, he gives us something we are maybe lacking up front, so he can definitely make a contribution.”

Meanwhile, a friendly against North End tonight will give injury victims Garry Brady, Steven Robb, Gavin Swankie and Stephen McNally needed match practice.

In the case of Brady and Robb, both of whom appeared from the bench against Stranraer, this run out should leave them ready to challenge for starting places in the visit to Paisley to face First Division leaders St Mirren on Saturday.

“They are that bit stronger because they were not out for so long, so, if everything goes OK, I should have the option of starting with them from the weekend,” added Alan.

Steven Craig and Iain Anderson were still not back in full training today. It will be later in the week before their chances of facing the Buddies are clear.

Owen was enthralled at Saints’ first goal on Saturday. “It was a great move,” he said. “Simon Mensing to Ryan Stevenson to Darren Sheridan, back to Ryan and into the net.

“And Paul Sheerin set up goals No. 2 and 3. You won’t get a more honest player than Paul and he wants to get better. He can add goals to his play and, once he gets one, he’ll get a few.”