Last updated on .From the section Football

A stoppage-time winner from Paul McGowan lifted Dundee into the top half of the Premiership after a dour contest with Partick Thistle at Dens Park.

Gary Harkins waltzed his way into the penalty area to set up his team-mate for a tap-in at the back post.

The visitors were on top during the first 45 minutes, threatening from a series of set-pieces.

But it needed a good save from Jags keeper Scott Fox to keep out an Alex Harris free-kick before half-time.

Dundee move two points clear of Tayside rivals St Johnstone, having stretched their unbeaten league run to seven matches, while Thistle have now lost their last four outings.

Harkins' late demonstration of skill was the only real moment of magic in a flat afternoon from both sides.

Thistle got off to the brighter start and striker Lyle Taylor should have had them in front in six minutes, spinning to fire in a shot from 10 yard only to steer it wide.

Experienced striker Paul Heffernan made his debut for Dundee in a game of few chances

Jim McAlister then had a great chance for Dundee latching on to a neat Harris through ball, but Fox was smartly off his line to block.

Thistle though were the livelier side and, after several half-chances, Callum Booth went close on when he powered a header over from a Stuart Bannigan corner.

On the stroke of half time Harris hit a powerful 25-yard free kick which seemed net-bound but Fox leapt to his right to turn the shot away.

The visiting goalkeeper did not reappear for the second half - with Paul Gallacher replacing his injured colleague, while Harkins was introduced after the interval along with Dark Blues team-mate Willie Dyer.

Paul Heffernan, making his debut for the hosts, flashed a shot wide after an hour but both sides were struggling to create clear-cut chances.

With the game seemingly petering out, Harkins suddenly burst into life, shuffling past two Thistle defenders on the left side of their box to square a pass for McGowan, who had the simple task to stab home from four yards.