Saints v Falkirk Preview

Last updated : 24 December 2006 By Stuart Gillespie
This is not some sly comment at Gus and his team selection/signing policy (it would be if it was about Hearts) - more a comment on the injury situation. A virus is currently sweeping through the Saints squad, and there are even rumours we'll have to field our under 19s for the Boxing Day clash against Falkirk. Perhaps SMISA should have an alternative to Saints Aid, selling places for the actual team rather than a supporters side.

For the record, the following players are definitely injured and will be missing: Alex Burke, Stewart Kean, Brian McGinty, Iain Anderson and Craig Molloy. Billy Mehmet is doubtful after limping off yesterday, and we can assume Mark Corcoran will also be out after not even being on the bench for the Hibs game. John Sutton isn't fully fit but will probably be forced to play anyway, with one of David McKenna or Scott Gemmill starting up front. The rest of the side is likely to remain the same, unless some players eat too much turkey or pick up the virus from a team mate. In which case, expect the likes of Ryan McCay and Neil McGinn to start. Yes, things really are that bad.

This should provide Falkirk with an excellent chance to give us a good hammering, especially with the excellent Anthony Stokes in their ranks. Stokes is on loan from Arsenal and has rattled in the goals this season, although he could move on to pastures new in January. However, he's with the Bairns for tomorrow and the thought of him running at the likes of Andy Millen and Kevin McGowne doesn't bare thinking about when they're fully fit, let along struggling with a virus. Other key players for Falkirk include Russell Latapy and Allan Gow, who has recently been linked with a move to Spain.

With all the injuries and virus victims, it's hard to see past us being hammered on Tuesday. Hopefully, Dunfermline will also be beaten.