He commented, “We are absolutely delighted with the backing we will be getting.

“The club really is appreciative of the support which will be travelling through to the game and wish to express our thanks to those who are going to Tynecastle to cheer the team on.

“At this time of the year, money is tight, so for so many to be making the effort is great.”

The Perth men go into the game minus Derek Lilley and Willie McLaren, who are both cup-tied, Derek having played in the competition with Morton and Willie with Airdrie United.

Kevin James, Allan McManus, Martin Hardie and Peter MacDonald are nursing knocks, but should be OK.

Saints, meanwhile, will have one eye on tonight’s other CIS Cup semi, when Falkirk take on Kilmarnock at Fir Park, Motherwell.