RADOSLAW CIERZNIAK emits an exasperated sigh when he is asked about Dundee United's recent record at Tannadice.

The Polish goalkeeper's grasp on English might not be quite as impressive as the way he has handled his opening few months in Scottish football, but he has learned enough to convey disbelief at a run of nine games without a home win. "I almost don't remember when we last won; it is incredible," he says. "I've never been in a situation like this but everything is possible."

Everything except victory at Tannadice, it would appear. Not since the thumping 3-0 derby win against Dundee in mid-August have United reaped the full reward at home, with tomorrow's visit of St Mirren coming after consecutive matches in which Peter Houston's side have spurned early leads.

Cierzniak, however, refuses to allow such experiences to dent his morale. "It's been a very long time but I am sure we will win because I am always positive about this team. I think that we maybe need to concentrate a bit more in the box sometimes. It doesn't worry me because I am an optimistic guy and if we keep playing well, I think the good results will follow."

Cierzniak's confidence is informed by St Mirren's awful away record. Not since August 11 have Danny Lennon's side won outside Paisley, their last trip to Dundee being marked by a victory at Dens.

However, a Boxing Day draw in Inverness has rejuvenated the mood around the club, with Lennon's own morale bolstered by the return of Paul McGowan after several weeks out with a shoulder problem. That, added to the fine form of Steven Thompson, means the St Mirren manager will take his team to Tayside targeting victory.

"Dundee United perhaps don't start the season particularly well but we know that they finish it extremely well, so hopefully we've got them in the right half of the year," Lennon said. "We have had good results in our last two games and the group are working hard for each other. That's been the key to our joy at this moment in time."

Fewer, though, have contributed more than Thompson, who started his career at Tannadice. Three goals in his previous two matches have taken him to 10 for the season, with Lennon suggesting that the striker has never been in better condition.

"Steven is very intelligent inside the box, he's a wonderful finisher, and he's on course to beat the 16 goals he scored last term," Lennon said. "He's working extremely hard and is looking as fit as I've ever seen him. He is also contributing outside of his goals. We have a lot of players hitting form at a very crucial period for us, so long may that continue."

St Mirren will be without Kenny McLean, though, after the young midfielder underwent a minor knee procedure. However, Lennon is taking solace from the fact a large part of the recuperation period will take place during the winter break. "It's just a little tidy-up; he's only going to miss two or three games," he said. "He'll certainly be available for the [League Cup] semi-final."