Gareth Wardlaw and Sean Lynch both missed with close range headers in the first half but Higdon fired the visitors ahead with an angled strike.

BBC: Sport - Football - Dundee United 1-2 St Mirren

They had Gareth Wardlaw back from injury - while the experienced Brady returned to midfield, with Sean Lynch and Michael Higdon dropping out - but the striker was being given little supply.

BBC: Garry Brady, Craig Dargo and John Potter celebrate

Gareth Wardlaw missed a great chance to level in the 45th minute when the ball fell invitingly for the former Cowdenbeath striker six yards out following Hegarty's cross, but he sliced well wide.

BBC: Andy Jackson