Dundee United produced a memorable derby performance on Friday night, turning over city rivals Dundee 6-2, showing that the Championship is theirs to lose in the process.
The Tangerines were up 4-1 at half time, before a couple of extra goals in the second half secured a brilliant win.
The game was proof that if they want it, the Championship is there for the taking.
United mauled Dundee and now they are in pole position for the Championship crown
The first 30 minutes of the game was everything you expect from a Dundee derby. It was end to end, with the balance of the game teetering on a knife edge.
After this, it was a relentless barrage of Tangerine attacking force. The fact that they managed to score six and Lawrence Shankland only managed one from the penalty spot was also fairly impressive.
United have tried for years now to get out of the second tier. It may only be four games into the new season, but already they have made themselves clear favourites for the title.
Dundee were arguably favourites before the season started. United have put their rivals back in their place with this convincing victory, showing that this is their year for success.
Neilson’s men are the best side in the Championship by a country mile. They were brilliant against Inverness and stormed to victory over Dunfermline away from home too.
Most importantly, there is already a sizeable gap at the top. They are seven clear of Dundee, three ahead of Ayr in second and five ahead of Inverness in third.
Neilson managed to lead Hearts out of the Championship in convincing fashion a few seasons ago. That magic has seemingly landed at Tannadice, with a real winning mentality circulating around the place.
Their biggest enemy now is themselves. They know how good they are in comparison to the rest of the league, so it’s important United motor on now and continue to accelerate away from teams below them.
We may only be four games into the season, but even at this early stage, Dundee United look like clear favourites for the Championship crown.