John Hughes is eagerly anticipating the trip to McDiarmid. In their championship season, it was a happy hunting ground, and over the season they recorded their dominance over Saints by only sharing one point out of twelve to the Perth coffers. Hughes is now buoyant and refuses to read much into the 3-0 result at Ochilview which kick-started Saint’s season. Falkirk have found the rails once again, and are third in the league, only behind Saints on goal difference. They have recorded a trio of victories over ICT and Ross County in the Highlands, and also beat Raith Rovers 3-2 at home last weekend. However, their defensive record remains suspect, having not recorded a clean sheet in their last five outings. Yet, this may be balanced out by St.Johnstone’s midfield issues. Reilly is out and Robertson is marked very doubtful, leaving the number 8 jersey vacant.
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"We will give Mark until the last possible minute to prove his fitness but we aren’t in good shape in the middle of the Park. But we have youngsters waiting for their chance."
Stevenson, Fotheringham and Ferry may be waiting in the aisles, but perhaps this encounter comes too soon. Bernard is available having served his suspension, but has been struck low by a toe injury and latterly a virus which has limited his appearances at training. Stark is left with the dilemna of placing his faith in youth or contemplating a re-jig to accommodate more experienced players.
John Hughes is looking forward to the game:
"We’re all very confident about tomorrow. They caught us on a real off day earlier in the season, and our form has improved dramatically since then. We have won our last three league games in a row, two of them away from home, so we’re looking to keep that record going. The injuries have let up a bit. Kevin James, Davie Nicholls and Davide Xausa are all back in contention again, and they’re big players for us. The only doubt we have at the moment is Scott McKenzie, who has tweaked a groin muscle. He’ll be given until the last possible moment, but he’s honest enough to say if he’s not ready. The last thing we’d want to do would be to risk him, and end up losing him for six weeks."
With Clyde playing host to QOS, it is very possible that tomorrow's victor will be topping the division come 16:50.