A majestic free-kick from Charlie Mulgrew at the death gave Aberdeen a 1-0 win over 10-man St Mirren - their first home win of the season.

A dull spectacle came to life in the closing stages when the former Celtic and Dundee United man curled the ball into the back of the net to earn his side all three points.

Lee Mair, playing against his former side, following his summer switch to the Buddies, was given his marching orders for dissent after the goal to cap off a disappointing day for Gus MacPherson's men.

The Dons should have taken the lead in the 10th minute but Paul Gallacher showed great reactions to keep out Lee Miller's close-range header and, with the goal gaping, Andrew Considine volleyed wide of the target from seven yards when it looked easier to score.

It was not until the 22nd minute when MacPherson's side made their first real foray forward with Craig Dargo setting up Stephen McGinn who flashed an effort wide from the edge of the area.

The Buddies were coming more into the game as the half wore on and after 31 minutes McGinn unselfishly laid the ball into the path of Garry Brady whose thunderous effort just failed to hit the target.

Aluko was looking the home side's most promising route to goal but Gallacher was equal to his fierce, low drive from 25 yards.

Mair was cautioned for a challenge on Miller after 75 minutes. From the resulting free-kick Mulgrew curled the ball brilliantly over the wall only to see it bounce back off the crossbar, and Miller was unable to divert the rebound past Gallacher.

However, the Dons supporters were celebrating a winner soon after when, after Darren Mackie had been fouled on the edge of the area, Mulgrew stepped up to curl home the winner.

To add insult to injury for the Saints, Mair was given a second yellow for dissent following the goal, much to the delight of the Red Army.