Preview - Hamilton (h)

Last updated : 01 January 2010 By Firparkcorner

Craig Brown will be in charge again and presumably will be responsible for picking the team. The side on Wednesday looked a lot tighter at the back although we did struggle to create anything of note going forward. The most positive aspect of the game was our desire to fight for each other and if we can maintain that in this game we have no reason to be fearful.

Hamilton are hard-working and organised but they too are far from being a reincarnation of Brazil 1970. Antoine-Curier has his wage rise and we could see the return to Fir Park of Stuart Elliot in the Accies' red and white. The likes of Mensing and Neil are well known for their tackling ability rather than any startling creativity but we should be able to handle them.

The Accies frequently play 4-5-1 so Craig Brown will need to decide whether to match them in the middle or to make the bold choice and throw in Sutton as an extra striker. Murphy is not overly effective on the wing so he would be another alternative to join Jutkiewicz, still available before his loan ends later in the weekend.

Forbes was the one player who really seemed to struggle at Tynecastle and for whatever reason his early form seems well and truly gone. With Coke injured, Lasley would seem the next alternative if a direct replacement is needed although most fans would surely wish to see Slane given a run out rather than McGarry if needed late on.

We didn't deserve to lose on Wednesday but the result is usually more important than anything else and that is undeniably the case here. We need to battle but also try and play football when the chance is there and hopefully we can do enough to claim the points with a 2-0 win.