Saints v Rangers Preview

Last updated : 07 April 2007 By Stuart Gillespie
OK, so it's a bit optimistic, but we did manage a point at Ibrox last year and we ran them close in October. Optimism was high among Saints fans after John Sutton's goal against Hibs on Wednesday, but it's all changed thanks to the same side somehow losing to the Pars today. Saints must take something from tomorrow's game, regardless of the opposition. A four point lead going into the split would be handy, but not ideal considering how big it once was.

Saints have one major injury worry ahead of tomorrow's game, with Craig Molloy missing with a foot injury. His substitution on Wednesday seemed to be a blessing in disguise, as it allowed Saints to be a wee bit more attacking in their quest for a goal by bringing on Corcoran. Saints boss Gus MacPherson is likely to go with a 4-5-1 formation again, and I have no problems with that. However, one oour forward players - either Corcoran or Stewart Kean - should be put into the midfield, supporting Sutton up front.

A bit of pace supporting the front man would be a great help, plus the rest of our midfielders - Stephen O'Donnell apart - are not the most attack minded bunch in the world. Chances are Sutton will start after his goal, leaving Kean or Corcoran to replace Molloy in midfield. The rest will remain the same, meaning Kirk Broadfoot will face his future employers.

Rangers will be desperate to win tomorrow as well, but for entirely different reasons. If Saints were somehow to win the match, Celtic will be crowned champions. Anything else means the battle will continue for at least another week, although it's only a matter of time until the Bhoys win the title. It's wishful thinking, but I can remember Man Utd twice (at least) managed to win the Premiership due to not playing because relegation threatened teams had beaten their closest rivals, so anything's possible!

Former Saint Charlie Adam scored on Rangers last visit to Love Street, and also managed to score against Caley Thistle at Ibrox last weekend. The midfielder is in good form and - although he has been saying some nice things about Saints in the media recently - he'll be desperate to dent our survival changes by helping his side to another victory. It's hard picking out other Rangers players to watch out for as they're all quite good - certainly far better than our team!

Despite the improvement during the week, I think either a combination of a poor performance, us being attacking and Rangers desperate to win will lead to a 5-0 defeat for the Buddies.