Peter Houston wants front to back improvement

Manager Peter Houston has called on his Dundee United side to be more ruthless at both ends of the pitch throughout the forthcoming festive fixtures.

United tackle Hibernian in the Clydesdale Bank Premier League today, seeking a victory which may take them into the top six. In their past seven games, United’s two losses have come against Rangers and Celtic, while they have had wins over Dunfermline, Hearts and Inverness and draws at Motherwell and Kilmarnock.

Houston’s side kept two clean sheets in that time and he is eager for improved displays in defence and attack.

“It’s down to us to shut the door at the back,” Houston said. “Hopefully we’ll convert some of the chances that we are creating – I’d be worried if we weren’t creating chances. I’m delighted with the players’ effort and application and some of the play was outstanding last week. I’ll be looking for the same again.”

Last week’s 1-1 draw at Kilmarnock was secured by left-back Paul Dixon’s stoppage-time equaliser. Houston praised the defender, who also scored in the 4-1 win at Dunfermline. He said: “Dixon’s a forward-thinking player. He likes to get forward and he proved against Dunfermline recently he’s got a shot on him. He showed great courage and conviction going past the guy and rifling it into the bottom corner. You can’t ask for more than that.”

Hibs drew 3-3 with United at Easter Road earlier this season, but Pat Fenlon has been installed as manager of the Edinburgh club since then. While hoping for a meaner defence and attack, Houston is most concerned about victory. He said: “As long as we win, I don’t care how many goals there are. That’s all we want in a home match, to try to win the game.”