'The battle horns are sounding at Dens Park'

After a boxing day disaster against Ross County I was fearing the worst.

It wasn't just a loss—it was a reminder of the vulnerabilities threatening to derail our season. On paper, it was the most winnable fixture in a daunting stretch, yet the 3-0 hiding lacked even a semblance of effort or pride. It was one of the worst performances I've witnessed from a Dundee side.

The gauntlet was thrown down: a reaction was demanded. With January fixtures against Celtic (twice!) and Rangers looming, it was essential to secure points elsewhere and keep pace with our rivals for a top-six finish.

By halftime in Paisley, we were level, but Motherwell's lead against Rangers alongside the prospect of losing to St Mirren threatened to widen the gap between us and the top six to 11 points—a potentially fatal blow to our aspirations.

St Mirren were on a three-game winning streak, having just beaten Rangers on Boxing Day, and had only succumbed to defeat at home on two occasions this season. Billy Koumetio and Jordan McGhee were forced off due to injury after 20 minutes leaving us with a makeshift backline with just one natural centre half in the back three.

Our top six credentials were on display as we narrowed the gap to five points, the team dug deep and secured a massive win on the back of our losing streak. Ryan Astley in particular, had his best game in a dark blue jersey.

While the win at the SMiSA stadium atones for Boxing Day's disaster, a triumph over Dundee United could make amends for all of the hiccups we have suffered this season. The battle horns are sounding at Dens Park ahead of a highly anticipated Dundee derby, these are the best games of the season and have the power to define our campaign.

The stadium is sold out and Sky Sports will be rubbing their hands together as they've got the rights to cover what is arguably Scotland's most entertaining fixture.

The year 2024 will be remembered fondly, we finished in the top six, received approval for our next state of the art training facility and we capped the year off with a win.

While this season has carried much frustration, the prospect of winning the derby could both mathematically and symbolically be a decisive turning point in our fortunes.