[0762]

This will be a tricky fixture v a team fighting for survival at the bottom end of the Scot Prem. Hibs returning to a home fixture after registering a very welcome 2-3 victory v the Steelmen and 3 pts that give them a little bit of "breathing space" to push on into the fight for a top four place. No time for complacency all the same and our mindset really should be positive - onwards and upwards!! It wasn't that long ago Hibs had a solid stranglehold on this particular fixture with United hardly registering any positive result. This position has changed slightly in recent times and IMO one of the main reasons for this change is the loss of Martin Boyle who always played well in this fixture. More recently, we were previously done by some absolutely outrageous refereeing decisions!! I'm hoping the return of Aiden McGeady compensates for the loss of Boyle: his presence, together with Kevin Nisbet's impressive scoring prowess, could give us the edge to win this game. Our defence still concerns me to the point I've previously suggested that we bring in new decent defenders who can strengthen what we've got. Porto isn't perfect, but he is our best CB at the club and it is noticeable that Hibs play well when he is motivated to drive Hibs forward from a CB or midfield position. However, he needs help. At the mo, Hibs not moving to do anything on the transfer front. I know who I'd bring in to improve this team in certain positions and I'd be very, very confident of positive results after such action. Hibs coaching/management staff must have a good inkling re the areas of concern as well. C'mon Hibs! Winning another 3 pts will be huge in pushing on now!!

GGTTH