Inverness Caledonian Thistle narrowly defeated Motherwell in a 4-3 thriller in the Scottish Premier League to keep their European hopes alive

The Highlanders raced into a three-goal lead, but former Evertonian James McFadden scored twice and Michael Higdon grabbed his 27th of the season to level the game.

After both teams had a man sent off, Billy McKay struck the winner - and his hat-trick - to keep Inverness in the Europa League playoff places.

St Johnstone continued to apply the pressure on Inverness, though, as they beat Dundee United at Tannadice for the first time in almost 13 years. Liam Craig tucked away Gregory Tade's pass to give the Perth side the three points.

St Mirren will have to wait for their safety to be confirmed after they were convincingly beaten at Tynecastle.

Jamie Walker, Kevin McHattie and Jamie Hamill helped themselves to a goal apiece and Kenny McLean saw red for the Buddies, as Hearts comfortably ran out 3-0 winners.

Results in full: Dundee United 0-1 St Johnstone, Hearts 3-0 St Mirren, Inverness Caledonian Thistle 4-3 Motherwell