Dundee Utd 0
St Johnstone 1
League (SPL)

Manager's Programme Notes

Unfortunately, after all the excitement in making the top six, losing our first two post split games has proved very much an anti-climax. What was particularly disappointing about the loss to Motherwell was that, for the second time this season, we found ourselves two down to them with the match in its early stages. You couldn't legislate for their first goal, because it was a wonder strike from Michael Higdon, but to lose another so quickly made life very hard for ourselves. Having said that, we had enough chances to go in level at half-time, but credit to their 'keeper who kept us out. The third goal was always going to be crucial and once they got it, it was destined to be a disappointing start to the post-split for us.

There wasn't a great deal in the way of positives to be taken from the match in Dingwall. The state of the pitch didn't help and the first goal was always going to be crucial and unfortunately Ross County scored it. Shortly afterwards we had Barry Douglas ordered off and I don't believe it deserved a red card. That's why we appealed the decision and hopefully, by the time you are reading this, Barry will have been cleared and will be available to play this afternoon. If that isn't the case, then our already limited squad will be stretched even further. There is no doubt that we have been hard hit by injuries since I came in and, as the season comes to an end, we have lads playing with various ailments, plus of course those who are out long term Keith Watson has missed the last two games and Johnny Russell is battling to get a couple of games in before the end of the season. Now, on top of that, after today we'll be without Sean Dillon who is going in for an operation next Monday. For the past few months he's been playing through the pain barrier, but he must now have it done now to ensure he's ready to join in pre-season along with Gavin Gunning, who has been out for almost three months. Our meeting with Saints last month was very close with them equalising in added time. Having watched their last two games against Ross County and Inverness, I'm familiar with their current form and I reckon this one will be equally as tight. One thing is certain, we are going to have to defend better and stand up and be counted. St Johnstone are a physical team and pose real danger from set pieces. Steve Lomas has done a great job getting them into the top six for the second season running, but it's important that we finish the season strongly to help put in place a good foundation for next season.