Dundee United secured an immediate return to the Scottish Premiership with a draw against Airdrieonians, sparking celebrations that included a social media jibe at title rivals Raith Rovers. The Tangerines needed just one point from the match at Excelsior Stadium to clinch the Championship title, and they achieved it despite being outplayed for large periods.
Manager Jim Goodwin admitted his side looked fatigued after recent celebrations, saying: 'We looked like a team who enjoyed a good few celebrations over the last weekend.' Goalkeeper Jack Walton was called into action more than in previous games, making crucial saves to preserve a clean sheet. The draw was enough to confirm United as champions, with Goodwin praising his players for securing promotion at the first attempt.
United fans celebrated an 'unlikely double' by returning to the top flight and then engaging in a social media spat with Raith Rovers. Raith had posted a meme from the TV show The Inbetweeners mocking Airdrie for giving United a guard of honour before the title was mathematically secured. However, United's social media team responded with their own reference from the same show, featuring players with the trophy.
On the pitch, Airdrie dominated possession and created several chances. Arron Lyall hit the post in the first half, and Lewis McGregor forced a save from Walton. United's best early chance came from Craig Sibbald, who shot over. In the second half, Airdrie continued to press, but Walton remained unbeaten. United forward Tony Watt said: 'It's a full season of hard work and we've now done it. All the boys are absolutely buzzing.'
The result means Dundee United will play in the Premiership next season, while Airdrie remain in the Championship. The pitch invasion at full-time forced BBC Scotland's commentary team to vacate their positions in the stands.
