Jim Goodwin paid tribute to his dogged Dundee United side following the 2-1 comeback win over Aberdeen which clinched fourth place and a European spot.
The Terrors, who returned to the William Hill Premiership this season, had lost their four post-split matches going into the final fixture against the Dons, who were two points ahead and looking in fine fettle when Danish attacker Jeppe Okkels scored after 15 minutes.
However, United levelled after 56 minutes through defender Declan Gallagher before loan striker Sam Dalby’s penalty in the 62nd minute secured United fourth, which brings a potential Europe League qualifying place, although Aberdeen are able to swipe it back if they win the Scottish Cup against Celtic next week.
Goodwin said: “Today’s performance just pretty much summed up what this group have been all about all season.
“Numerous times throughout the campaign we’ve come from behind to win games and draw games. We’ve scored late winners throughout the course of the season.
“Today, the character was called into question again. At half-time, we were trailing and I thought the players were outstanding. They never stopped believing.
“It’s our third game in seven days. We’re down to the bare bones, as you can see, with the bench six substitutes, so not a great deal of options in terms of trying to change things up and get some fresh legs on there.
“I just think it’s a fantastic way to finish off what’s been a really successful season for the club.
“People have questioned our character and questioned the players about being on holiday too early and about downing tools. I think today’s performance showed that was never the case.”
Aberdeen, who had a place in Europe secured going into the game, have lost four games in row going into next week’s final against the Hoops but manager Jimmy Thelin is confident that his side will be ready.
He said: “It’s the last game of the season, it’s a huge game. We have been involved in a lot this season and done really well, but it was not enough. We were close to a better position.
“We are in a final so every game that has been available for us to play, we’ve played. This last punch, I can’t imagine this will be a problem for anyone, because not everyone can play in the Scottish Cup final.
“It doesn’t happen every year. I can’t see that anyone will have problems to get the spirit or bravery to play this game.
“We know what people think, but it’s for us to win everything and try to do that. We can’t be afraid of this game, and have to do much better as a team to win this game.”
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