Dundee boss Paul Hartley was pleased with his side’s character as they sealed a point in difficult conditions in the Highland Capital.
David Clarkson gave the visitors the lead in the second half but despite a Graeme Shinnie equaliser, Hartley was pleased with a solid afternoon’s work.
Hartley said: “We were better in the second half in difficult conditions. The pitch was bumpy and the wind didn’t make things easy but we showed good character and spirit to get a good point.
“We’re still in the mix for that top-six place. We’ve given ourselves a chance and we’re happy with a point.
“The whole team worked hard because Inverness are a good possession side under Yogi (John Hughes). The wind and pitch didn’t help us but it sets us up for a massive game on Wednesday.”
The only downside for the Dens Park boss was fitness concerns over three of his players. James McPake was taken off just after the hour to be followed by David Clarkson, while Greg Stewart also picked up a knock.
All three will be assessed before the midweek derby with Dundee United but McPake is likely to head for a scan early in the week.
Hughes, meanwhile, was left frustrated with the outcome but concedes it could prove crucial as the season draws towards its climax.
The point here and Dundee United’s loss to Ross County means the Caley Jags are eight points clear of their nearest challengers for a European spot.
“We definitely deserved something from the match,” said Hughes. “In the first half we got back to doing what we do well – we were patient with the ball and tested the keeper a few times.
“Lady Luck deserted us a little bit. We were looking for a bit more in our combination play with Aaron (Doran), Nick (Ross), Ryan (Christie) and Marley (Watkins), to make the most of our total domination in the first half.”
He added that Dundee’s approach in the first half took him by surprise.
“I thought the whole game was played in their half,” said Hughes. “But in the first 20-25 minutes of the second half they were on top. Their shape was better and we struggled to adjust.
“They scored with their first shot on target but we showed great spirit and character to go straight down the other end and score.”