Last updated on .From the section Scottish Championship

Sam Stanton's strike put United on course for victory

Falkirk midfielder Paul Paton was sent off for an apparent stamp and head butt as his side lost to Dundee United in the Scottish Championship.

Sam Stanton's left-foot shot put the hosts ahead, and Pavol Safranko headed in his eighth of the season from Fraser Aird's cross to double the lead.

Ex-United midfielder Paton was sent off after clashing with Safranko before Aaron Muirhead's last-minute penalty.

Dundee United remain third, four points off the top.

Dundee United manager Robbie Neilson: "We played really well and had loads of chances. The gap at the top has narrowed a little bit and we need to make sure we keep mounting the pressure.

"I've been kept in the loop on the takeover and it sounds like a fantastic opportunity for the club. It's a great place to be at the moment because their plans are very big."

Falkirk manager Ray McKinnon: "It was a difficult game. They scored a deflected goal, which was a bit unfortunate, then we get done by a set piece.

"But the guys' determination, attitude and desire was great after the break. I just wish they'd played like that for the whole game."