Russell heads United in right direction

Striker Johnny Russell headed a late winner to move improving Dundee United level on points with hosts Motherwell in the table.

Russell nodded over goalkeeper Darren Randolph from Keith Watson's cross with just six minutes remaining to finally settle the issue.

Tangerines keeper Radoslaw Cierzniak had earlier saved from Jamie Murphy while Stuart Armstrong fired over following a swift break towards the other end.

United's Gavin Gunning then drilled a 25-yard free-kick blocked by Randolph, who also denied Armstrong on the follow-up.

But Henrik Ojamaa went much closer with a shot against the crossbar for the home side and the Estonian also found the base of an upright following the break.

Motherwell's Steven Hammell then cleared from near his own line when Willo Flood's corner was directed towards goal before Russell looped Watson's 84th minute cross over Randolph to secure the points.

Motherwell: Randolph, Hammell, Ramsden, Cummins, Law, Hateley, Humphrey (Daley 88), Lasley, Ojamaa (McHugh 79), Higdon, Murphy

subs (unused): Hollis, Francis-Angol, Murray, Carswell, Hetherington

Dundee United: Cierzniak, Dillon, McLean, Gunning, Watson, Flood, Rankin (Skacel 79), Ryan (Mackay-Steven 71), Armstrong, Russell (Millar 86), Daly

subs (unused): Banks, Gauld, Gardyne, Dow

Goals: Russell (84)

Ref: Muir

Att: 3,941

Vital F1 Prediction League - Join now for Monaco