Scottish Premiership: Dundee perform ‘dirty side well’ in ‘incredible team performance’ against Dundee United

Having beaten Falkirk 1-0 and Kilmarnock 2-1 at Dens since Christmas, Dundee went all the way to Tannadice full of confidence and were able to celebrate at full-time with a jubilant away finish.

Dundee are now unbeaten on their past four visits to Tannadice and avenged their derby defeat to Dens earlier in the season.

Pressley said: “We knew we were going into this match, and we had achieved two very important results, but we realize the importance of this match.”

“It was a pivotal game and I couldn’t be prouder of the players.”

Former United manager Ian McCall was at Tannadice as an analyst having also watched Dundee lose 1-0 to Motherwell on 20 December.

He was impressed by the improvement since that match and said the result was “completely deserved”.

“Dundee had no offensive intention against Motherwell,” he said.

“It’s only been two or three weeks, but they look full of confidence. Dundee United’s back three didn’t know how to deal with Ashley Hay.

“Fair play to Steven Pressley. You can comment on his record, but you can never think he won’t be ready to fight.”

Before Dundee surprised Celtic last October, the team struggled in the league, winning just once in their first eight matches.

Pressley admits he had some tough moments during his probation, but says his players helped him keep going.

“They are an amazing group,” he said. “It’s been a tough season and they’ve helped me get out of bed at times.

“I love working with them – every day they want to be better and they are starting to find their way. I hope this is the start of something good.

“I know there will be moments when you face setbacks, but as long as we stay strong, hopefully we can build something.”