| “I think only Rangers and Celtic have been in more national cup semis than us recently, but we want to go one step further and reach the final,” said Saints boss Derek McInnes as he completed preparations for tonight’s tie.
The Perth men will be backed by a good support tonight, and Derek added, “We’d love to deliver for our supporters. They give us good backing.”
Saints have done OK since winning their way back into the SPL by clinching the First Division title last season. Derek emphasises the team has come a long way in a short time and a win tonight will be a major step forward.
“To get to this stage, we’ve put out four teams, Stenhousemuir and Arbroath from leagues below us, but also two SPL teams, Hibs at Easter Road and Dundee United at Perth, so we’ve worked hard to get where we are.”
And Saints know hard work will be one of the main ingredients needed this evening.
“Beating Rangers is a big ask,” went on Derek.
And, having been a part of successful Rangers teams as a player, he knows exactly what the Ibrox team and their fans expect.
“Rangers have more experience of these big occasions and a number of match-winners in their side. However, we can cause them problems.
“To do so, we must start the game properly and go and compete. I just hope we can take that extra step tonight and send our fans home happy in the knowledge they’ll be returning for the final.”
Saints still have slight injury concerns over Chris Millar, Jody Morris and Kenny Deuchar, but it’s likely all three will be available.
It’s possible Hampden could have something of an eerie atmosphere tonight. It’s thought the stadium may be only half full. |
