| And, when he was playing for Airdrie, Coyle’s strike partner was Thistle’s Mark Roberts.
“I have a high regard for both,” said Owen.
“Dick is a terrific coach and manager, while I know exactly what Mark can do from our days at Airdrie.
“And Thistle will likely have Simon Donnelly and Derek Young in their squad. Simon is an ex-Saints player, and Derek had a short spell with us earlier this term.
“Last season, we drew 4-4 there in the Challenge Cup — but got through on penalties — and I’ll be delighted if we get four goals against them this time round.
“Thistle have started well and so have we. In fact, we’re unbeaten in eight league and cup matches this season and want to keep that going.”
Saints are without the injured Kevin Rutkiewicz and Paul Lawson, but Willie McLaren is in the squad and likely to make his Saints debut following his deadline day move from Airdrie United.
And Jason Scotland is likely to once more take up his place in the Saints attack.
He’s been in great form recently, a fact Owen acknowledges.
“Jason was a wee bit rusty when he came back from World Cup duty with Trinidad and Tobago — but he’s finding his form now and will be a very big player for us in the course of the season.”
Saints have a good recent record at Partick, their Challenge Cup win last season being preceded by several league wins. And they hope to continue that tomorrow. |
