The Young Terrors, coming from behind and down to ten men, deservedly came away with a share of the spoils from Grant Street tonight.
Territorially, the visitors had by far the better of the first half, but failed to test the keeper.
Ironically, the home side came closest to scoring just before the interval with only Jamie Robson’s headed goal-line clearance keeping the sides level.
Making a bright start to the second period, Caley Thistle went in front after ten minutes, Ryan McRitchie hooking home from around the penalty spot.
There was further woe for United four minutes later when Brad Smith was red-carded after seeing yellow for a second time.
Despite being numerically disadvantaged, the Tangerines levelled midway through the half, Matty Smith ramming in a low cross from substitute Harvey Dailly.
And Ali Coote, the other sub, almost gave United the lead drilling a low shot inches past shortly afterwards.
Indeed, five minutes from the end, only a tremendous one-handed save by home keeper Daniel Hoban from a Matty Smith pile-driver prevented United winning!
Dundee United: J Donaldson, Ballantyne, C Donaldson, Robson, Hornby, Appere, B Smith, Allardice, Taylor (Coote 61), M Smith, Garden (Dailly 61).
Subs not used: Mcmeechin, Chalmers, Ritchie, Reekie, Murrell.