United 3rd, After 2-0 Win

Dundee United leapt into 3rd spot in the SPL this weekend, after a well earned 2-0 victory over Saint Mirren at Tannadice.

It wasn`t a pretty victory, but the Dundee United players oozed confidence as they clinically despatched with Gus McPherson`s side.

Noel Hunt appears to have re-discovered his goalscoring touch, netting a 38th minute opener after Franco Miranda deflected the ball into Hunt`s path inside the penalty box.

Hunt calmly rounded Saint Mirren goalkeeper Chris Smith, just outside the 6-yard box, before slotting home his 3rd goal in 3 consecutive matches.

It was one of 'those` afternoons for 22-year-old Saints defender Miranda, after setting up United`s opening goal, he then received his marching orders for a 2nd bookable offence.

Miranda earned his 1st yellow card for a late challenge on Noel Hunt in the first half, but saw red after a clumsy lunge on United captain Barry Robson in the 67th minute

Less than 60seconds later, Miranda`s absence from the Saints defender, allowed Dundee United to make it 2-0 and secure all 3 points.

Steven Robb gathered the ball on the left, after a Barry Robson corner was headed clear by the Saints defence.

The former Dundee player, who came on as a 62nd minute substitute for David Robertson, played a low ball to Jordon Robertson at the front of the 6-yard box.

On-loan attacker Robertson cheekily clipped the ball with the outside of his right-foot, sneaking it just inside the near post, his 2nd goal in 3 matches for Dundee United.

United had several other chances to extend their lead late in the game, but Steven Robb was denied by the inside of the post and Noel Hunt sent a few efforts over the bar.

With the Old Firm not playing until next Sunday, Dundee United will have a rare opportunity to climb into top spot in the SPL next weekend.

If Craig Levein can mastermind another league victory over Davie Iron`s struggling Gretna on Saturday afternoon at Fir Park, United will join Celtic on 16 points - though Strachan's side have a slightly better goal difference.

Final score:
Dundee United 2-0 Saint Mirren

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