Celtic passed up the chance to leapfrog rivals Rangers at the top the Clydesdale Bank Premier League as they had to settle for a 1-1 draw against Dundee United at Parkhead.

In the lunchtime kick-off Walter Smith's Gers were held to a goalless draw by Motherwell at Fir Park but the Hoops failed to capitalise and remain in second place, behind only on goal difference.

Tannadice striker David Goodwillie drove the visitors into the lead in the sixth minute but Hoops striker Scott McDonald equalised in the 17th minute when he headed in a Danny Fox free-kick from close range.

United midfielder Scott Robertson was sent off three minutes from the end after picking up the second of his two yellow cards for a foul on Celtic substitute Georgios Samaras but the Hoops could not find a winner and remain behind their Ibrox rivals on goal difference.

Earlier Allan McGregor came to the rescue of 10-man Rangers with a superb penalty save to prevent the Scottish champions slumping to defeat against Motherwell.

Madjid Bougherra was dismissed for two bookable offences after conceding the spot-kick but McGregor ensured Rangers left Fir Park with a point from a goalless draw when he blocked from Jim O'Brien.

However, his efforts were not enough to maintain Rangers' 100% record in the SPL ahead of Wednesday's Champions League opener against Stuttgart.

Elsewhere goalkeeper Paul Gallacher earned St Mirren a 1-1 draw at St Mirren Park as St Johnstone rued a series of second-half misses.

Gallacher pulled off great saves from Murray Davidson and Chris Millar, who both struck the bar.

Jody Morris had driven home a 37th-minute equaliser for the visitors four minutes after Billy Mehmet's penalty gave St Mirren the lead.

Meanwhile Hearts' clash with Kilmarnock was called off.

The visitors were stuck in long tailbacks caused by a lorry fire on the M8 motorway which would have severely delayed their arrival at Tynecastle.

The match has been rearranged for Tuesday night, with a 7.45pm kick-off.