Match Preview

United host Hamilton at Tannadice this Saturday in the third of a succession of games in the city.

By Ally Stewart

Having suffered hugely disappointing results against both Ross County and Dundee, this game has now taken on even greater significance as we cling onto hopes of a top three finish. As much as the recent run of form has hindered our chances, we are realistically one victory away from everything looking much rosier and Arabs everywhere will agree we are all in desperate need of this lift on Saturday. They say you learn more about footballers after defeat than victory and there is no doubt the players will be hurting, especially after Wednesday’s derby defeat. Rest assured they’ll be out to prove a point against Hamilton and we’ve seen on several occasions this season that there is no shortage of character within the squad. At Motherwell away in the Scottish Cup, Aberdeen in the League Cup Semi and Inverness at home recently there was evidence of this, and the players' mental strength is going to be required to drag us back into contention for Europe. You do sense that we are a moment of brilliance or a slice of luck away from turning a corner so let’s hope we see this on Saturday. The fans of course play a part. The true constant in any club, Arabs know more than most how much truth there is in the view that you need to go through the tough times to fully appreciate the good. The backing received despite recent adversities has been phenomenal and again the team will need this support at Tannadice to help them get a result. Selectionwise Jackie McNamara again has tough decisions to make in choosing the side he feels is best equipped to beat Hamilton who are also struggling for form currently. The game may come too soon for Callum Morris as he looks to return from injury, but the reappearance of Mario Bilate on the park on Wednesday adds to the attacking options. The energy of Aidan Connolly has been one of the few bright lights in the last two games and he could prove to be key to unlocking the Accies defence on Saturday. Let’s not underestimate the impact we as fans can make and use our voices to hopefully cheer the team onto what would be a very warmly received win. Come on You Terrors!!