Pungent pyrotechnics, thrown toilet rolls and ignominious pitch invasions tainted the final game of the season in Dingwall, as Dundee United ‘celebrated’ their victory over Ross County and fourth-place Premiership finish.
Although the game held no significance for County, it was meant to be the match which capped off a fine season from the Staggies, who grabbed a top six finish for the first time since 2016.
Droves of supporters hoped to play their part in saying thank you and goodbye to many of Malky’s men, who may or may not be returning after the summer.
Former Dundee United man Blair Spittal has been a constant in the side this campaign, and the County support will be ever so hopeful he will pull on the Staggie blue once more – but if that was to be his last appearance, he certainly signed off with a wondrous strike into the Jailend.
Two goals from Nicky Clark late on deflated County’s hopes of a positive result to end the season, and sparked one pitch invasion and one pyro throwing exhibition from the sold-out Tangerine away end.
The referee’s full-time whistle ignited a second, larger pitch incursion from the away supporters, who rampaged on to the park.
With player safety a risk amid the knee-sliding and steward-colliding away fans, the home side rightfully returned to the changing rooms.
Of course, Dundee United should be allowed to bask in their glory of a wonderful season, however, several flares – which were coming from both ends of the ground it must be said – and stampedes on to the pitch should not be “forgiven” as easily as Dundee United boss Tam Courts believes.
The County players and staff deserved a lap of honour for their own season in front of the Staggies faithful.
However, they were left to sign off such a positive season with only a handful of the most patient supporters, who waited through the antics on the park to see their heroes.
