Last updated on .From the section Football

Lawrence Shankland's 17th goal of the season broke the deadlock

Dundee United maintained their three-point lead at the top of the Scottish Championship after Lawrence Shankland's 17th goal of the season earned victory over Partick Thistle.

The Scotland international headed in Louis Appere's delivery just after the hour at an angst-ridden Tannadice.

Shankland had earlier struck the bar in a game from which bottom side Thistle will feel they deserve something after missing several opportunities.

They remain five points from safety.

United, meanwhile, travel to face third-place Inverness Caledonian Thistle on Saturday and may have to do without winger Peter Pawlett, who was replaced inside the opening minutes with a tight hamstring.

Dundee United head coach Robbie Neilson: "It was a difficult game and credit to Partick. It's a long season and there are going to be games like this where it's about finding a way to win.

"It wasn't pretty but it's another three points. We'll get nothing for free in this league because we are one of the big hitters."

Partick Thistle manager Ian McCall: "We were terrific from start to finish. we certainly didn't deserve to lose. Nearly 90% of the second half was played in their half. I'm incredibly proud of how they played.

"They are playing big bucks for a centre forward and he was the difference because they were hanging on."