Dundee made just one change to the team when Cameron Congreve replaced Charlie Reilyy who was on the bench. So was Clark Robertson and Fin Robertson, who had both recovered from injuries, and new signing Joe Bevan.
Dundee started well and attacked United from the kick-off, United had a couple of efforts but it did not trouble Jon McCracken in the goal.
From a free kick Billy Koumetio powered a header narrowly wide from Yan Dhanda’s cross. Koumetio had another great chance from a free kick. Luke Graham headed down but the French centre back shot wide from close range.
Tony Yogane was also doing well to get crosses in with his skilful play on the wing. One cross found Ryan Astley at the back post but he fired the ball over the goal.
From another good move a pass to Hay but he put his effort just over the bar. Congreve looked a better option if the ball found him.
But right on half-time Dundee finally scored a long ball from Astley was missed and Hay went past Hasselink, he ran clear and slipped a superb finish past keeper Richards to score. Instead of lashing at the ball Ash Hay calmly passed it inside the far post.
Second half and Dundee United done better but nothing cut clear to worry Dundee, After 15 minutes Jones had a shot blocked the ball fell to Hay and the United keeper saved with his legs.
McCracken made a superb save save to deny United a goal, and after Dundee made changes. Fin Robertson came on for Callum Jones and Imari Samuels replaced Cam Congreve. Drey Wright moved to right wing back with Samuels taking his place on the left as Dundee switched to three, or five, at the back.
Robertson had a shot at goal late on but it was well saved. Four minutes added time went quickly and a vital win for Dundee. It will push them up the table, and more points ahead of Kilmarnock and Livingston.
Dundee: McCracken, Astley, Koumetio, Graham, Wright, Jones (Fin Robertson 64), Hamilton (c) Congreve (Samuels 74), Dhanda (Digby 88), Tony Yogane, Hay. Unused Subs: O’Hara (gk), Ingram, Clark Robertson, Acquah, Reilly, Bevan.
Referee: Don Robertson.
Att: 13,495.
