Jim Goodwin shares thoughts on Dundee United-Rangers match and insights for the remainder of the transfer window

Dundee United manager Jim Goodwin expressed regret over his team’s inability to capitalize on a one-goal lead against Rangers at Tannadice, reflecting on “what could have been.”

The hosts led 1-0 through Sam Dalby’s 19th-minute strike, his 11th goal of the season.

However, despite creating further chances, they were equalized by Mohamed Diomande in the 37th minute. In the second half, goals from Robin Propper and Cyriel Dessers secured a 3-1 win for Rangers.

Despite the loss, Dundee United remain third in the Premiership with 37 points, two ahead of Aberdeen.

Goodwin was disappointed by his team’s failure to take advantage of the results of other top-six sides, such as Aberdeen, Motherwell, and Hibernian, who did not win over the weekend.

“It’s definitely a case of what could have been,” said Goodwin. “We created opportunities in the first half, and before Rangers scored, I thought we could have been a couple of goals ahead.

Sam Dalby was unlucky when his shot came back off the post, and Luca Stephenson had a good chance, but Jack Butland made a brilliant save down low to his left.

We also had other half-chances thanks to some good football.”

Goodwin praised his team’s play in the first half, particularly their ability to get the ball into wide areas and pressure Rangers with crosses.

“Every time we put a ball into the box, we caused Rangers problems, and we created chances from it,” he said.

At halftime, the mood in the dressing room was positive, with the team aiming for a repeat of their strong first-half performance. However, the timing of Rangers’ second goal was a turning point.

“We didn’t anticipate it, and I’d say it was self-inflicted,” Goodwin admitted. “Despite our good shape in the first half, we made a poor decision in that moment.

We had a defender (Strain) coming out to defend a one-on-one in the left-hand channel, and he should’ve held his position and dealt with Propper.

The ball got played through to him, he took it on the half-turn and had the space to cross, which Kevin Holt was unlucky to turn into his own net. At 2-1 down, we faced an uphill battle.”

Goodwin also highlighted his team’s misfortune, noting they hit the woodwork three times, although one was ruled offside.

“We were unlucky, especially when the ball came off the Rangers defender and crashed into the side of the post,” he said.

However, the second half performance was not up to par, and Goodwin admitted his team’s play was not good enough.

Reflecting on the weekend’s results around them, Goodwin acknowledged it was a missed opportunity.

“We knew we were up against a strong Rangers side with quality players, including some who were fresh after not playing in the Man United match,” he said.

“The league table hasn’t changed much, with Hibs picking up a point on us.

However, other results went in our favor, which makes this loss sting a little more, as it would have been a great chance to extend our lead over Aberdeen and St Mirren, but we couldn’t take it.”

Looking ahead to the final days of the transfer window, Goodwin discussed the club’s plans. With Ruari Paton and Lewis Fiorini being their main signings so far, he hinted that there could be another move in the works.

“There may be one in, one out potentially,” he said. “We’ll see how things unfold, but overall, we’re happy with the business we’ve done.”