Delighted Tam Courts praised predator Nicky Clark for killing off Ross County and putting Dundee United back in the top six fight.
The frontman came off the bench to net a double that saw United come from behind to move level on points with Aberdeen, who have a superior goal difference.
United had been six defeats on the bounce in the league but Courts praised Clark and his players for putting the three points on the board.
Courts stated: "Nicky is still a predator at this level. I trust him so much.
“The penalty was a foregone conclusion and his winner was a sublime header.
“Nicky’s had a tough job at times this season, playing up front on his own, which isn't what he'd prefer.
“It was good to get him on the pitch surrounded by other forwards, where he can ghost into positions.”
The United boss praised the character of his team after their cup win against Killie and against County.
”We have a strange relationship with Ross County this season,” Courts claimed.
"I am thoroughly delighted with the character of the players and the result.
"On the balance of play, I don't think anyone can say we didn't deserve it.
"We thoroughly merited the three points.
"This is a crucial part of the season. We are in the top six now on a technicality, level on points, but it's a tight league.
"Now we are coming up to the business end of the season and there will be a bit of momentum and confidence as we look to challenge at the top end.
"We have to stay calm and clear but we are on a journey of highs and lows, but we have to deliver and we did that.”
Frustrated Malky Mackay left disappointed his team came away with nothing.
He felt County should have got a penalty of their own for a Dylan Levitt handball.
Joe Hungbo also had a late shout of his own but his manager believes should have buried that in the final minute.
MacKay said: "We certainly looked as though we were in the ascendancy.
"There was one in the first-half where the boy's arm is out so I was disappointed with that.
“I don't understand that one - it has to be the same for both. That is clear so I was disappointed with that.
"We had two or three great chances and Siegrist made a few cracking saves so I am disappointed that we lost the game.
"We came here looking to win the game. We need to try and keep the momentum going because we played ok. It is up to us to make sure we recover and get ready to go again at the weekend.”
