Ayr United v Saints Preview

Last updated : 20 February 2004 By Stuart Gillespie
We're currently eight points ahead of second bottom Brechin City, and a few more clear of Ayr United. Not exactly diasterous as yet, but not safe either. An Ayr win would close the gpa to seven points, and if Brechin and Raith were to win things don't look good. So, a win is a must, and it would be nice to be paired with defeats for Brechin and Raith.

One way to try and win would be to play a striker. Against Caley Thistle we created lots but didn't have anyone to take the chances, whilst against Falkirk we were rubbish. Allan Russell, Barry Lavety or even David McKenna would do 9providing they are fit), as long as there is someone up front to support the hard working McGinty.

Another way to try for victory would be to keep Kevin McGowne on the bench. He may be captain, he may be fit again, but he's been rubbish all season, so hopefully the partnership of Kirk Broadfoot and Mark Dempsie will continue. Craig Hinchcliffe should replace the similarly naff Stevie Woods, having agreed a new deal during the week.

Of course, if the last game against Ayr is anything to go by, we'll have a little help from our friends. Admittedly former Saints goalie Ludovic Roy had little chance with any of the three goals we put past him, but it was still funny to hear the chants of "Ludo's Still A Saint" at Love Street, and see the Ayr fans go wild whilst the Saints chanted his name!

Saints have had some good results against Ayr over the past couple of years, here's hoping they continue tomorrow.