A fast improving Dundee United side recorded their third win in four matches as the misery continued for rock bottom Motherwell at Fir Park.
Two first-half strikes from Terrors front man Jim Hamilton proved sufficient to give United all three points, despite a late rally from Terry Butcher's side.
Dirk LehmannÂ’s 82nd minute goal ensured an entertaining finale but in the end Motherwell were left to rule a dismal first-half showing.
United had the best possible start, taking the lead with only 34 seconds on the clock. Charlie Miller took a quick throw to Jim McIntyre and when he returned the ball to Miller the former Rangers midfielder crossed for Hamilton to head in at the near post.
Khaled Kemas responded well for the home side and his fourth minute effort flashed low across the face of Paul Gallacher 's goal.
Miller sent a free kick from 25 yards narrowly over in the 20th minute before he succumbed to injury and was replaced by Arnar Gunnlaugsson who made an immediate impact on the match, clipping a Jamie Paterson cross onto Hamilton who calmly cut the ball home.
After the interval Motherwell came more into the match, but found it hard to break down a well-marshalled rear guard.
Derek Adams and Martyn Corrigan had chances, as did Steve Ferguson and Steven Hammell, but none proved to be of any real concern to Gallacher.
However, with eight minutes remaining, Lehmann set up a thrilling close to the game when he connected with a Hammel cross to head past the helpless Gallacher.
Craig Easton had the opportunity to finish the match off for United but his low right foot effort was brilliantly tipped wide by Francois Dubordeau