Tam Courts insists Sunday’s derby win was more significant than Dundee United’s shock win over Premiership champions Rangers.
Courts claimed his first league win as United boss last month after a Jamie Robson strike ended the Gers’ 41-game unbeaten run.
That helped Courts silence some of the doubters following his appointment to the Tannadice hot seat in the summer.
United have since beaten double cup-holders St Johnstone, but the 1-0 win over Dundee is the biggest one yet in Courts’ eyes.
And he hopes it will act as a springboard for Thursday’s Premier Sports Cup quarter-final clash with Hibernian.
When asked which game was most important, Courts said: “Probably the derby because it means so much to the fans.
“The Rangers performance and result came at a time when we’d had a poor performance at Aberdeen.
“I think the fans were looking for an insight into what a Tam Courts team was going to look like. Dundee United’s display at Pittodrie certainly wasn’t it.
“The Rangers performance was result was very much about getting a buy-in from the fans and players.
“Against Dundee it was a confirmation that we’re on the right track.
“Football fans live from Saturday to Saturday but Dundee United fans are known to value hard work, commitment and a desire for the club.
“The players are showing that just now.
“Even in moments like Ayr United away when I don’t think we played particularly well, the fans’ backing was really strong.
“I’d like to think we have convinced a huge section of the fan base but I know that a couple of results either way can change that very quickly.”