Jim Goodwin is rallying his Dundee United squad to channel their frustration into a strong response as they prepare to face Aberdeen this Saturday. The Tangerines are looking to bounce back after a humbling 3-0 defeat to Kilmarnock last week, a result that stung particularly hard following an impressive derby win over Dundee.

United currently sit seventh in the Scottish Premiership, and Goodwin admits last Saturday's defensive display was a major letdown. "It was a really poor performance from us defensively, something I couldn't foresee after how well we'd played against Dundee," he said.

But the manager is confident in his team's resilience. "In fairness to the boys, any time we've had a poor performance like that, the bounce back has always been positive—and that's what we're hoping for tomorrow."

The trip to Pittodrie won't be easy. Aberdeen, despite a season that hasn't gone as planned, remain a dangerous opponent. Goodwin acknowledged the challenge: "The players know what's expected against a good Aberdeen team. They're in a position they wouldn't have wanted, but they've still got the incentive of trying to finish above us in the table."

For United, the stakes are clear. "If we win, that secures seventh place, and that's got to be our motivation," Goodwin added. With a top-half finish on the line, expect a determined Tangerines side ready to fight for every point.