3 things to expect from crucial Hibernian v Dundee United clash
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It’s round three of the table-topping clash between Hibernian and Dundee United in the Ladbrokes Championship this weekend, with Neil Lennon’s men looking to defend their one point lead from the second-placed Terrors.
So, after a 1-1 draw at Easter Road back in September and a 1-0 triumph for United at Tannadice last month, what does this Friday night fixture have in store?
Low-scoring trend to continue
Yes, they’re the league’s highest-scoring pair, but Dundee United and Hibernian also have the Ladbrokes Championship’s tightest defences – conceding just 11 and 14 respectively.
And not only has this fixture produced just three goals in the two meetings combined this season, but the pair have been involved in one low-scoring game after another in recent weeks.
Only two of the Hibees’ last seven games have produced over 2.5 goals, though that’s one more than United have enjoyed in that term – with their last seven outings producing a mere seven goals combined.
That means that under 2.5 goals here looks a pretty safe bet at 8/11, with under 1.5 also worth a flutter at 9/4.
Nobody will shirk a tackle
While these two are renowned more for their attractive, possession-based football, the fact they’ve tended to nullify one another in meetings means it’s often been an engaging and surprisingly physical battle.
Six yellow cards were dished out last time the pair met, but it was a case of determination and not dirtiness which saw referee Bobby Madden reach for his pocket with regularity.
For those hoping to see a different side to the Championship’s top two, look no further.
Little – or nothing – will separate them
Okay, so ‘draw banker’ may not be a phrase, but Hibernian v Dundee United makes a strong case that it should be.
Six of the last nine meetings between the pair have finished level after 90 minutes – a stat bolstered by the 1-1 draw in Leith back in October.
Add to that the fact three of Hibs’ last six games have ended with honours even, and the 5/2 for a draw here looks like a very generous price.
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing
