It is safe to say that this weekend will be decisive in setting the scene before the top six games begin. Should United and St Johnstone drop points while we win, a much more comfortable time awaits us. If they both triumph while we lose, the sound of bottles crashing at Fir Park will be held loudly in Dundee and Perth.
But we cannot worry ourselves with what happens elsewhere. Even if they win, it is still within our own hands to restore the five point gap and against a dire Hibs team we should fancy our chances. They moved a step closer to safety by winning in Inverness despite being outplayed for long spells but we have defeated them twice in the league already this season. An element of caution is provided by our frustrating League Cup exit on penalties at Fir Park.
Well done Jamie!
We do have some squad issues though as Hammell being suspended means Clancy will probably play on the left of the defence. Craigan will presumably return in the middle if fit but Page’s performance against Aberdeen means we should have little fear about partnering him with Hutchinson. The more serious absence is likely to be Jennings – if we are a one man team he is the man – so Carswell will need to be at his best alongside Lasley.
Trips to Easter Road are rarely easy and with Hibs fighting relegation they will surely be up for this contest. However, if we match them for effort we can surely hope our ability will make the difference and we can claim a vital 2-0 victory.
Remember out last visit to Easter Road?