Boss Neilson focused on tricky Ayr test and not United’s home record
Leaders Dundee United host Ayr and Tannadice manager Robbie Neilson is not getting carried away at the prospect of his side racking up a ninth consecutive home win.
United, who have opened up a 13-point lead, have not dropped a point in Tayside so far this term but Neilson is concentrating only on the visit of the Honest Men as he explained: “Focusing on one game at a time is more important than thinking about any achievements or records.
“There is a long way to go and I know that over the past three seasons Dundee United have made good starts and then faded away.
“Ayr had a very good period earlier in the season which also included a win over ourselves. They had a bit of a lull however they are back winning again.
“They have turned us over at our place before so we can’t think the game is won. They have very good quality in the wide areas with Alan Forrest and Luke Mccowan so we need to be at our best.”
Ayr manager Mark Kerr will send his side out to attack at “fortress” Tannadice as they are at their best when they are on the front foot.
Kerr said: “Winning eight out of eight there is one of the reasons they are top of the league. It is a formidable record, however, we will go there and be positive.
“That approach has secured us wins both home and away against United in the past, so there is no need to change it. We are a better team when we attack and that is the approach we will go out with.”
Second-placed Inverness Caledonian Thistle face fourth-placed visitors Dunfermline with Caley boss John Robertson saying: “Dundee United have put together a tremendous run but all we can do is win our games and see what happens.”
Partick Thistle face Dundee at Firhill with Jags boss Ian Mccall saying: “We have won our last two and are off the bottom, so it looks like we are heading in the right direction.”
Queen of the South host Arbroath and a win would lift the Doonhamers above their visitors, however, boss Allan Johnston is wary despite home advantage as he explained: “Arbroath are above us because they have started well in the Championship. This will not be easy.”
Alloa face visitors Morton in the remaining Championship fixture this afternoon.