Houston's side recorded their first victory of 2011

Dundee United manager Peter Houston was pleased with how his midfielders responded to his instructions in the 2-0 victory over Motherwell.

"I'm always moaning about getting goals from the middle of the park," Houston told BBC Scotland.

"Morgaro Gomis had three shots, Prince Buaben forced a great save from the goalkeeper, David Robertson had a shot and Johnny Russell hit the post.

"We were at least making an effort to score from the middle of the park."

United's win, courtesy of goals by Johnny Russell and David Goodwillie, takes them level on points with their opponents who, in sixth place, have played two more games than the Tangerines.

"I'm delighted with the players, I thought it was a thoroughly merited win," said Houston.

"We passed the ball better than we had done for weeks.

"Hopefully we've taken a lot of confidence because we've got a big game on Saturday (against Hearts)."

Goalkeeper Dusan Pernis appeared to be struggling with injury throughout the match but was still able to produce an important save to deny Chris Humphrey.

"He's had a thigh injury for the last few days and he refused point blank not to play because that's the attitude of the big man," added Houston.

"And at 1-0, what a save he made. He's a fantastic goalkeeper."

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