Thomas Mikkelsen's first-half goal lifted Dundee United to a 1-0 victory over Dunfermline and into third place in the Scottish Championship.Simon Murray had the first real opportunity, sending his shot into the side netting, but he was the provider as the Tangerines went ahead on the half hour, sending in a low ball from the right that Mikkelsen put away from close range.Murray had an excellent opportunity to swell the home side's lead just before half-time when the ball dropped to him off a deflection but he could only find Sean Murdoch's hands.Tony Andreu lashed against the post from distance as United pressed for a second after the interval while Blair Spittal shrugged off a couple of challenges and forced a fine diving save from Murdoch, who did well to deny substitute Nick van der Velden in added time.