Scottish Premier League wrap: Motherwell near European berth

Motherwell moved five points clear in third spot in the Scottish Premier League on Saturday as Dundee United were held by Hearts.

A 5-1 win at home to St Johnstone saw Motherwell strengthen their grip on a Champions League place.

Michael Higdon opened the scoring with a 17th-minute penalty after Chris Humphrey was awarded a controversial spot-kick at Fir Park.

Humphrey also set up the second just three minutes later, crossing for Nicky Law to slide in and score at the back post.

Jamie Murphy made it 3-0 on 52 minutes with a powerful drive, before Liam Craig pulled a goal back for the visitors from the penalty spot.

Substitute Henrik Ojamaa had an immediate impact, netting the fourth two minutes after coming on before completing his brace soon after.

Dundee United slipped five points adrift after a 2-2 draw at home to Hearts, who twice came from behind to take a point from Tannadice Park.

Willo Flood struck a brilliant 30-yard opener, only for Rudi Skacel to cancel it out with a header on 35 minutes.

Dundee restored their advantage against the run of play when Gary Mackay-Steven powered in a low drive.

Their lead lasted until the 83rd minute, with substitute Arvydas Novikovas snatching a point for Hearts with his left-footed effort.

Dunfermline Athletic moved to within three points of safety after a comfortable 3-0 win at home to Aberdeen.

Joe Cardle’s 56th-minute strike was followed by an Andy Kirk brace as Dunfermline kept their slim chances of survival alive.

Kilmarnock recorded a thrilling 4-3 win at home to Inverness CT as Dean Shiels struck a late brace for the victors.

Jonny Hayes had been sent off in the 58th minute for the visitors, who were leading 2-1 at the time.