As ding-dong derbies go, this one was right up there.
While the quality of football on show at Tannadice would not have satisfied the purists, there was no denying that the game had everything in terms of raw excitement.
When Dundee extended their lead to 2-0 on the stroke of half-time, there would have few willing to wager that there was any way back for Mixu Paatelainen’s men.
However, the decision by referee Steven McLean to send off Dark Blues keeper Scott Bain in the 50th minute was the crucial turning point with the Tangerines pulling one back from the resultant penalty and then going on to put their near neighbours under incredible pressure.
It looked like the Tangerines would be left ruing a number of missed opportunities but eventually their persistence paid off with that man Billy Mckay in the right place at the right time to net with a last-gasp header to secure a share of the spoils.
Once the dust has settled, both camps would probably agree that a draw was not the result either side wanted.
From a United perspective though, the point taken means they are now just seven behind second bottom Kilmarnock with a game in hand.
It goes without saying that everyone of a Tangerine persuasion will be hoping that Killie’s wretched form four defeats in their last four games continues and that their own team can pick up results in their last three matches before the split to increase the pressure on the Ayrshire side.
Certainly, the fans can take heart from their side’s spirited fightback against Dundee but there is still a worry that United continue to concede soft goals.
As for the Dark Blues, their top-six destiny is still very much in their own hands with the April 2 meeting with fifth-placed Ross County at Dens looking absolutely pivotal to their dreams for this season.