Preview: Motherwell v St Mirren

There have been times earlier in the season, many times in fact, when we have been so bad it seemed impossible to get any worse. Usually we do manage to improve the performance a bit but we don't always get the result we need. This time it can be universally agreed that the performance doesn't matter a jot so long as we get a draw or better. Another defeat coupled with a Dunfermline victory at Inverness will take the relegation matter to a very uncomfortable conclusion on the last day. And if nerves are getting frayed now, goodness knows what that would be like.

On the team front we will be without Reynolds who is suspended and we are still waiting to hear if McDonald can play. Murphy, Lasley and O'Donnell are still out and McLean is not yet fully Paterson must be doubtful after being on the receiving end of an outrageous tackle at Dunfermline. Kinniburgh (or possibly McLean) would seem the obvious choice to come in at the back while the Fitzpatrick could play on the left or one of the many right-footed wingers we have could be used there.

McCormack would also be a possibility depending on whether or not Malpas wants him up front in the event of our appeal against McDonald's red card being unsuccessful.

We are a poor side and have been for some time but St Mirren are not without problems either. They seem to have ditched the 3-5-2 formation which gave them control of the midfield over us so it is possible we can dominate a bit more. They will also have to chase the game, depending on the result in the north, so there shouldn't be the usual problem of trying to break down a packed defence. It'll be a tense time but we'll do just enough to survive with judgement about the win or draw being withheld until the result of McDonald's appeal is known.