It went to extra time and penalties this time, but Dundee United still cannot escape the Championship after their play-off defeat at St Mirren. They lost the Championship title to Ross County, but had built momentum ahead of their play-off with St Mirren and the signs seemed positive. However, the pressure proved too much and they failed to score a penalty in the shoot-out. Another promising season ended in failure as they failed to negotiate the play-offs for the third season in succession.
United began the season with Csaba Laszlo in charge, but with huge expectations a few defeats sealed his fate before a third of the season had elapsed. His football was too tactical and defensive for the impatient United support. Robbie Neilson was brought in and soon with the aid of almost a whole new team, United were harder to defeat and back in the title race. At least Neilson rekindled their title hopes and enlivened the United support. Unfortunately, United were still prone to unexpected lapses and they finished in second place despite strong form towards the end of the season.
United’s problem was despite some fine attacking performances from Pavol Safranko and Paul McMullan, they simply didn’t score enough goals. This followed them into the play-offs and their lack of confidence in the penalty shoot-out was embarrassing. Defiant noises may come from Tannadice, but they face a fourth season in the Championship at a severe financial cost.
