Dundee United passed up a gilt-edged opportunity to secure a much-needed victory against a Kilmarnock side who had to play much of the match with just 10 men.
The Tangerines got off to a disastrous start, conceding after just four minutes when Josh Magennis swung a cross in from the right for Kris Boyd to fire home from close range.
It was obviously a hammer blow for Mixu Paatelainen’s side and they looked shaken as Killie went on to carve out several great opportunities.
However, the game turned on its head in the 24th minute.
Referee John Beaton adjudged that the home side’s Stuart Findlay had prevented Ryan McGowan scoring a certain goal for the Tangerines with the official pointing to the spot and then flashing a red card at the Killie player.
Billy Mckay stepped up and as usual, calmly slotted the spot-kick past goalie Jamie MacDonald.
However, shortly after, the Killie keeper won the next instalment in their personal duel when Mckay was sent through one on one against MacDonald who saved with his legs to ensure the game was level at half-time.
Shortly after the restart, United had a big shout for another penalty when Blair Spittal appeared to be tugged back in the Killie box by Mark Connolly but Mr Beaton was not convinced and then had to talk to an enraged Paatelainen at the next break in play.
The Tangerines then had a huge let-off when Craig Slater hooked a spectacular shot from the edge of the United penalty area which cannoned off Michal Szromnik’s right-hand post with the keeper well beaten.
With the clock ticking down, United worked manfully in an attempt to secure a winner but ultimately had to settle for just a point.
For full report, reaction and analysis, see Monday’s Courier.