Before kick-off, Dundee United boss Jim Goodwin had bemoaned the number of draws his side had this season, saying that turning three or four into wins would have transformed their position.
Sharing the points for a 12th time in 27 league outings would not have improved his mood with a lack of real goal threat to blame against Aberdeen.
Zac Sapsford returned to the forward line but he made way for Max Watters after an hour and neither had any real service to speak of.
United’s best chance was a strike from outside the box and other attempts on target were blocked efforts in the box after set pieces.
Goodwin will not give up on the top six while it’s arithmetically possible, though games are running out. A strong showing in the six remaining pre-split fixtures and Scottish Cup rests on being more creative and threatening.
Aberdeen’s interim manager Peter Leven will reflect on his side having the better of the chances but failing to take them.
Nisbet has scored five goals in 2026, including two at the weekend, but he missed the best opportunity and he and Olusanya both seemed hurried when cooler heads were required to get at the United defence.
The Dons, who like United have a game in hand over Falkirk, seem to be drifting without a permanent manager and the league season looks to be heading for an underwhelming finish.
Defence of the Scottish Cup might bring more focus but the Tannadice performance seemed like the sign of a club in a holding pattern.
