Saints v Hamilton Accies Preview

Last updated : 22 May 2009 By Stuart Gillespie

We can only be relegated if we lose by two more goals than Caley Thistle lose to Falkirk. If we win, get a point, or lose 2-0 we are safe. Likewise, a Caley Thistle win or a draw sees us safe. If they lose and we lose, it's down to goal difference. Ours is currently two better, so they'd need to lose 1-0 and we'd need to lose 3-0 to hit the drop.

It's unlikely. It shouldn't happen. But we've all been watching Saints for far, far too long to think that it's not a possibility. It wouldn't be the first time we've been given a perfect situation like this and blown it - regardless of the era, managers or players at the club. We often struggle in front of a big crowd and tomorrow looks like being a sell out. Most fans already assume we're safe - it's set up for a disaster.

Fortunately, the current management know things are not yet over and are refusing to claim the job is done. This is good. If this attitude can be transferred to the players and we can produce a performance like the one against Falkirk, tomorrow should be a breeze, we should seal ninth and we should finally get our first league win at our new home.

If injuries allow, we have to go with the same team that faced the Bairns last week. Their were no failures, everyone gave their all and they were superb. As I mentioned in my report, I wouldn't have gone with only one recognised striker - but it worked a treat. It might not be the best thing to do at home, but if it aint broke don't fix it. If Jack Ross, Billy Mehmet and Andy Dorman have come through unscathed then we have nothing to worry about as we'll go with the same team. The problems will only arise if certain other players are brought back into the side - but I've banged on about that enough in the last few weeks. On the injury front Craig Dargo, Chris Smith, Tom Brighton and Jim Hamilton are out. Franco Miranda is also out and has returned to Argentina - although the club are now trying to sign him permanently.

Hamilton have little to play for tomorrow. They secured their safety last week, despite being beaten by Motherwell, and only have the aim of holding on to ninth place to keep them motivated. Admittedly, this does produce more money and a longer holiday due to the way next year's League Cup will run, so it's something worth fighting for.

James McCarthy has been excellent for Hamilton this season and has recently been subject of bids from clubs north and south of the border, although these have been rejected. Near namesake James McArthur has done well alongside him, while fellow midfielder Simon Mensing has chipped in with a fair number of goals. Like most Reid sides, this Hamilton team are quite stuffy away from home and usually look to keep things tight and hit their opposition on the break.

No predictions this week - I don't want to jinx things!