Preview: Jeonbuk Hyundai vs Ulsan Hyundai

This clash between the top two in the league table is not a mere Hyundai family match; it definitely is one of the most important matches in the season so far. Can the tigers continue their campaign for the first trophy in twelve years?
(image via uhfc.tv)

Last Time Out

After an unstoppable ten game run without a single defeat, Ulsan went through a short slump with a draw and a defeat against two clubs in relegation war - Sangju and Incheon. However, a dramatic win against Suwon at Munsu stadium last weekend has given Ulsan some momentum. The East Coast club is set to continue the good momentum.
On the other hand, Jeonbuk had to see their eight game streak without a defeat ending with a defeat against FC Seoul. Jeonbuk is still at the top of the table with 35 points, but a defeat against Ulsan, with 32 points, could mean a possible change in the league table.

Previous Meetings

The Round 11 game between Ulsan and Jeonbuk ended in a goalless draw. Almost twenty shots on target were made between two clubs but both were little bit short of scroing a goal to snatch a win. Managers Choi Kang-hee and Kim Do-hoon both showed their will for a victory with substitutions; Kim Do-hoon put Kim In-sung, Ivan Kovačec and Lee Yeong-jae onto the field while Choi Kang-hee answered with Lee Jae-sung, Lee Dong-gook and Ko Moo-yeol.
It is likely that the managers will once again present an exciting match with attacking minds.

Team News

Japanese media have reported that Ulsan is chasing FC Tokyo forward Abe Takuma. Ulsan's director Kim Kwang-kuk has also confirmed that the club is having talks with the Japanese veteran forward. While Abe Takuma will not be able to play against Jeonbuk, his addition to the squad will prove vital in the long-run for Ulsan's campaign for a trophy.

Prediction

This six-pointer game is one of the hardest to predict in this round. Both teams will be cautious since a defeat could mean a huge loss in the title race. Although both sides have boasted excelllent goal-scoring skills, not many crucial chances will be made in this vital clash.
Lee Jongn-ho is ready to show what he has against his former club; in fact, all five players (Lee Jong-ho, Kim Chang-soo and Choi Kyu-baek in Ulsan and Lee Yong and Lee Jae-sung in Jeonbuk) involved in the huge 3-2 trade before the season will be ready to impress in a game against their old clubs.
Overall a safe 1-1 draw will be satisfactory, though not the best, result for both teams.

Jeonbuk 1-1 Ulsan