Dundee host rivals Dundee United in their second derby of the season when they meet at Dens Park on Thursday. Live on Sky Sports.
Tony Docherty's side have ended 2024 on a high by ending their three-game losing streak in the Premier League. By defeating St Mirren 2-1.
Jim Goodwin's men also enjoyed an important victory Kevin Holt scored in the 94th minute to beat Aberdeen 1-0 Moving within three points of third place. That left United with 31 points – the same total they had when they were relegated in 2023 – but this time there is half a season to go.
This will be the first time these two clubs have met at Dens Park in almost three years – with both seasons remaining in Scotland's second tier; Dundee United just last season and Dundee the year before.
However, they met at Tannadice last August to finish in a 2-2 draw. If the next installment of this popular competition serves up anything close to that, we're gearing up for fireworks to kick off the new year.
Docherty is ready for an 'electric' derby atmosphere.
Dundee president Tony Docherty He said Sky Sports News:
“It's a great game. It's great for the city. I live here and I feel the pulse of the place, everyone is excited about the derby.
He added: “The players are very excited, especially after the really strong performance and result away to St Mirren.
“I love that we are at home. During my time here the fans have been fantastic, and a lot of our success has been based on our home form. The fans play a big part in that.
“Any team that comes to Dens Park, I don't want them to just play with the team, I want them to play with the people in the stands and I want us to create that atmosphere.
“It's going to be electric, absolutely electric. Just like it was the last one. It's got everything, it's got the tradition and the history. Dundee United will go down Tannadice Road like we did last time.”
“It's a good occasion and I want it to be a good advertisement for Scottish football and for both clubs.”
GOODWIN: Bragging rights are at stake
Dundee United president Jim Goodwin He said Sky Sports News:
“It goes without saying that we're all really excited and looking forward to the game.
“The first game we played at Tannadice was fantastic, two very good teams and a great atmosphere.
“We expect a similar match on Thursday. This means a lot to both sets of fans and we are happy that we go into the match in very good shape.
He added, “We expect a hostile atmosphere from our fans at home, but we will get great support from our fans there to stand behind the team.”
“The game means a lot to the city. Bragging rights are on the line so we can give a good account of ourselves and the fans can get bragging rights after the game.”
Watch the Dundee derby live on Sky Sports Football and Main Event from 5.15pm on Thursday 2 January, kick-off at 5.30pm, after Rangers vs Celtic (kick-off at 3pm).