The visitors are enjoying a fine run of form and they are unbeaten in the last seven outings. With a top half finish already earned it would be understandable if their focus was now fixed on the cup final at the end of the month. However, Stuart McCall will be anticipating a full strength effort from the Perth Saints.
The main threat will come from Stevie May. The 21 year old has scored half his team’s goals this campaign but we’ll have to make sure that their number 9 (MacLean) is well marshalled. He returned from injury at the end of February when we last were in Perth and scored a couple.
Previous meetings between the teams have gone with home advantage this season. St Johnstone won by 2-0 and 3-0 while Motherwell celebrated Ne’erday with a 4-0 triumph. Sutton, Vigurs, Ainsworth and McFadden were the scorers the last time the teams met at Fir Park and it’s likely that all will play a part in this meeting. Faddy returned from a long injury absence at Tannadice but remained on the bench. We could do with some of his magic this weekend.
Our defence was mauled by United but the return to home ground might be enough to tip the balance in their favour. The announcement of Leeann Dempster’s impending departure would have come as a blow to the staff but it should have no bearing on the players when they take to the field. The home crowd will have their chance to show appreciation for Stevie Hammell breaking the 500 game barrier and with any luck he’ll be able to enjoy a 2-1 win.
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