Saints vs. Clyde 26/12/06

[Cagey]

Another must win game. Defeat & we are 11 behind Gretna who seem to grind out the results & get the odd pen`.

[Radford 72]

We've not even had one pen in the league this season.

Nothing less than three points will suffice on Tuesday, otherwise there seems little point in spending money in the window.

Key is to keep our discipline. In their last eight games, Clyde have ended up playing against ten men on six occasions, which probably goes a long way to explaining their sudden up turn in form. After the last game at Broadwood, there is no excuse if anyone loses the plot on Tuesday.

Coyle should be threatening these players. If they get sent off on Tuesday they will lose their place in the side automatically obviously but with new signings coming in, they may not get it back. They also need to perform to make sure they aren't the one that makes way for one of the new faces.

At least the injury situation isn't looking too bad with only Rutkiewicz definitely out although I doubt Mensing or Milne will be 100%.

I'd expect Cuthbert to be in goal but that apart the side to be similar to the one that played at Hamilton...

Cuthbert

Lawrie - McManus - James - Stanic

Mensing - Hardie - Sheridan - Sheerin

MacDonald - Scotland

Subbies: Halliwell, Anderson, Lawson, McLaren, Milne.

[Victor]

Coyle should be threatening these players. If they get sent off on Tuesday they will lose their place in the side automatically obviously but with new signings coming in, they may not get it back. They also need to perform to make sure they aren't the one that makes way for one of the new faces.
I agree with you in principle Radders but can you honestly see OC doing that, given his apparent blind faith in some of his favourites and old buddies?

[Radford 72]

I agree with you in principle Radders but can you honestly see OC doing that, given his apparent blind faith in some of his favourites and old buddies?
I don't think he has more favourites than any manager though. His club captain is one, our best player Scotland is another but that's it. Everyone else has to fight for a place IMO.

There could be four new faces in early January so a lot of, even the regulars, are playing for their futures. Hopefully that will get the reaction you usually get from players playing for contracts.

[MUZZ]

i'd take any win to be honest. clyde will play the usual negative shift so its up to us to deal with it.

get andy jackson on

[Cagey]

Clyde will be in our faces & we do not play well against teams like that. We need Jackson`s pace.

[rickardo]

Dont want to be Mr negative or **** all but ive never seen him play that well.

[Radford 72]

Dont want to be Mr negative or f**k all but ive never seen him play that well.
He was electric pre-season. I appreciate the standard of opposition wasn't great but he didn't look out of place alongside our players. Also thought he played really well at Greenock when he came on and put a good ball in for Simon's second goal.

Can't even see him being on the bench on Tuesday though. Peaso and Jason to start with Savo on the bench.

[Cagey]

I just think we are far too predictable. We are halfway through the season & Clyde will know every move we make & will set out their team to either get a draw or take advantage of our slow defence if he leaves McManus & James at centre back.
Clyde are a younge fit team with plenty of pace & we are slow & predictable.

Change to back 3 with Ando in there for pace with Peaso & Jackson up front.

[blueheaven]

I don't think he has more favourites than any manager though. His club captain is one, our best player Scotland is another but that's it. Everyone else has to fight for a place IMO.

Lawrie?

Have to say I agree with Victor - I don't know if it's blind faith or fear of making things worse, but I do think OC's reluctance to change things when going badly has turned out to be one of his biggest flaws. To his credit though, there have been changes in the last few games, so hopefully it's a criticism that he's now rectifying.

I just hope the Clyde game isn't the ususal scenario where we pummel a team in the first half but then get found out in the second. I wouldn't start Jackson, but I'd love to see OC actually look at him as a genuine option to bring on and add an unknown quantity to our attack, instead of just someone who's there to make up the numbers on the bench. The guy must be gagging for a chance at the moment, and it would be nice to get a look at what he can do before Dobbie comes back.

I reckon Cuthbert in for Halliwell will be the only change to the starting line-up for this one.

[Radford 72]

I don't think he has more favourites than any manager though. His club captain is one, our best player Scotland is another but that's it. Everyone else has to fight for a place IMO.
Lawrie?
He was prepared to drop him ahead of the Gretna game then had a last minute change of heart. It's proved to be a stroke of genius as Lawrie has looked a different player since. Maybe he was in a comfort zone.

We don't really have any other options at right-back though. It would ruin all the good progress Ando has made if he's shoved back out there.

[Broggy Man]

I would love to see OC going with Peaso and Milne up front With Scotland in behind for the first half at least a bit of adventure.

[Rodgers]

i will be sitting in the Hospitality 8)
east stand give us a song :wink:

mon the saints

[Steve Maskrey]

The Met Office are predicting poor visibility for Tuesday so as the weather doesn't look like it's going to improve between now and then, it's highly likely that the game will be off. I drove passed McD earlier and could barely see the Ormond Stand :(

Ah well, might just have to go to the pub instead :wink:

[Hazel1884]

The Met Office are predicting poor visibility for Tuesday so as the weather doesn't look like it's going to improve between now and then, it's highly likely that the game will be off. I drove passed McD earlier and could barely see the Ormond Stand :(

Ah well, might just have to go to the pub instead :wink:

Pub for 11am, peeps! :D

[Aitchy]

I would love to see OC going with Peaso and Milne up front With Scotland in behind for the first half at least a bit of adventure.

Could'nt agree more Broggy Man! I've been saying that for the past six months, having Scoctland playing in a free role would give us so many options. Mensing could concentrate on the more defensive aspects of midfielding, and teams would'nt have a clue how to deal with Scotland in a free role. I quite like Owen Coyle as a manager, however i think he sometimes lacks a bit of imagination with his tactics.

[Steve Maskrey]

Imagination or inexperience as a manager :?

[Cagey]

My team for tomorrow.

Cuthbert

Ando McManus James

Lawrie Hardie Sheridan Sheerin Stanic

Peaso Jackson

Or alternatively anyone who is sober & hasn`t put on a few pounds.

[Finners]

Aye its a must win, hopefully this WILL get the ball rolling and we can gather some momentum and get a run going... :?

[slf]

i will be sitting in the Hospitality 8)
east stand give us a song :wink:

mon the saints

well when ye come out at half time its traditional to give us in row h behind the players tunnel freebie pies.cheers dude :wink:

[ST GAZ]

i will be sitting in the Hospitality 8)
east stand give us a song :wink:

mon the saints

well when ye come out at half time its traditional to give us in row h behind the players tunnel freebie pies.cheers dude :wink:

Given that they will miss the first ten minutes of the second half due to them stuffing their faces , you'll be lucky to get a crumb. :)

[saint_markperth]

i hope we can give sheridan a good send of with a win today

[killinsaints]

whats the weather like in perth today is the match going to be on or is it really foggy?

[Tranmere Saintee]

whats the weather like in perth today is the match going to be on or is it really foggy?

It is dull with just very patchy mist rather than fog so there should be no problems.

[killinsaints]

thanks for that i can head up now

[dave mc]

i will be sitting in the Hospitality 8)
east stand give us a song :wink:

mon the saints

Feed the Weegies,let them know it's Christmas time!
Would that do Rogers :***:

[Victor]

From the official site....
There are a couple of significant changes in the line up for todayÂ’s Boxing Day match with Clyde.

Kevin Cuthbert is restored to goals - his first league appearance of the season – and Andy Lawrie is the victim of what looks to be a tactical change with Simon Mensing moving into a defence.

SAINTS: Cuthbert, Mensing, Stanic, Anderson, McManus, James, Hardie, Sheridan, Milne, Scotland, Sheerin.
Subs: MacDonald, Lawson, McLaren, Lawrie, Halliwell

Surprised at OC dropping one of his buddies in Lawrie, even for a tactical change. Thought any changes would have been made in January when our new midfield come in!

Trialist in goal for Clyde. Interesting one. Experienced old pro or untried junior? Should go at him from the start which ever.

Anyway, hope changes work. C'mon Saints!!

[Nairn Saint]

Sorry to see Andy Lawrie not on from the start but it looks like a strong side. Come on ye Saints!

[Moray Blue]

Merry Xmas all.

C'mon Saints - lets make it a happy holidays (to use the politically correct Americanism).

[Nairn Saint]

Merry Xmas all.

C'mon Saints - lets make it a happy holidays (to use the politically correct Americanism).

Are you sure it's still ok to use "happy"?

[Moray Blue]

Merry Xmas all.

C'mon Saints - lets make it a happy holidays (to use the politically correct Americanism).

Are you sure it's still ok to use "happy"?

I'll tell you about 3.45 :***:

[Victor]

(to use the politically correct Americanism).
Please no...is there no hiding place from the scourge of modern day society??????! :shock: :wink:

It all seems very quiet football wise. Wonder whats happening at McD.

[Moray Blue]

0-0 HT.

[Victor]

0-0 HT.
Do your senses tell you it will be the same at Full Time? :(

[Moray Blue]

0-0 HT.
Do your senses tell you it will be the same at Full Time? :(

Bugger - 0-1.

Guess that's Clyde shut all the doors now.

[Victor]

Sod it. Yep, suspect they will. Hope we dont get hit on the classic counter attack as we have to go for it.

Having said that I see OC has actually subbied Jas and brought on Peaso. Didnt think hed ever do that unless through injury.

Obviously not at the game, but if Scotlands not injured then its sad that even at this stage Owen wont take a chance and go with 3 strikers. Hell probably put Hardie forward and of course James as a last resort when nothing else works.

[Victor]

Mclaren for McManus. Looks like he is gambling a bit.

[Moray Blue]

Dundee 2-1 up on Partick. Sad that thats about the best we can get today.

[Nairn Saint]

Crapety Crap!

[Moray Blue]

GOAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAL

Savo :)

[Moray Blue]

Never had any doubts that we could get back into it.........

8)

[Victor]

Never had any doubts that we could get back into it.........

8)

Coff Coff!!! :D

[Moray Blue]

GOAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAL

Peaso - 2-1

[Moray Blue]

Isn't this the season of miracles?

[Nairn Saint]

Blow yer whistle ya fanny!

[Victor]

Excellent!!!!

Obviously we can only read between the lines, but if Owen threw caution the wind as he knew we had nothing to lose I really hoped he has learned a BIG lesson. Better late than never!!

Well done!

[Victor]

Blow yer whistle ya fanny!
Im blowin...im blowin.....! :***:

[Moray Blue]

Excellent!!!!

Obviously we can only read between the lines, but if Owen threw caution the wind as he knew we had nothing to lose I really hoped he has learned a BIG lesson. Better late than never!!

Well done!

Have to agree. Credit where it's due.

[Moray Blue]

YESSSSSSSS

Now wasnt that an easy afternoon in front of the PC.

Altogether now..... Tis the season to be jolly, tra la la la

[Nairn Saint]

Excellent!!!!

Obviously we can only read between the lines, but if Owen threw caution the wind as he knew we had nothing to lose I really hoped he has learned a BIG lesson. Better late than never!!

Well done!

Have to agree. Credit where it's due.

Fabbedy fab!

[Victor]

Isnt that something like the first time we have actually come back in a game to win it this season?

Interesting that both goals came after their trialist keeper went off. Wonder if any significance in that.

[Victor]

YESSSSSSSS

Now wasnt that an easy afternoon in front of the PC.

Altogether now..... Tis the season to be jolly, tra la la la
***...finishing off the sherry from yesterday are we???!!

[saint_markperth]

Get in there, About time we showed some fight and got back into a game, For all the doubters we don't need jason to win things, Hardie did not have the best of games, but really i dont care as we won

[Moray Blue]

Isnt that something like the first time we have actually come back in a game to win it this season?

Interesting that both goals came after their trialist keeper went off. Wonder if any significance in that.

Trialist wasn't the goalie - just Sky's poor teamlines. David Hutton is their keeper.

[Cagey]

Stole the game today. Took the defence a while to get used to back 3 but don`t know why Mensing was wingback instead of Lawrie as he was absolute pish at w`back & even worse when when went 4 at back when McManus was subbed.
Ando was superb & should never be out of the team whether we play back 3 or 4. Sheridan was the only midfielder to do anything & he will be sorely missed. Scotland was ineffective & Peaso caused more problems in the 15 mins he was on than Scotland who flatters to decieve. Pitty he is too good for this division, but then someone from a better league like the conference may sign him.

Still we came back from being down for the first time this season & won 3 points when we shouldn`t have so who knows this may be the turning point.

[SJC]

For once we win despite playing awful stuff.

We created a lot of chances despite overall poor play and should have scored a few more- James should have had a couple, Milne was unlucky to see the ball roll wide in the first half after beating the keeper.

The ref, of course, was falling for Clydes old tricks- surely they should be wise to their patter by now.

Plastic Whistle next and a win there would see us start to put together some sort of run.

[saint_markperth]

Isnt that something like the first time we have actually come back in a game to win it this season?

Interesting that both goals came after their trialist keeper went off. Wonder if any significance in that.

Trialist wasn't the goalie - just Sky's poor teamlines. David Hutton is their keeper.

trialist was that no the boy that gretna have just released, Williams i think

[Radford 72]

trialist was that no the boy that gretna have just released, Williams i think
It was Alex Williams, recently released by Ross County.

Make no mistake about today, that was diabolical but we somehow dug a result out of it! Both teams were terrible and if Tesco sold that game, I'd be taking it back for a refund.

Makes up slightly for the results in Dingwall and Hamilton but where are the Saints that played so well at times earlier in the season.

First goal Hardie misses a simple interception, Imrie swings in a fantastic cross and Arbuckle powers a close-range header past Cat.

For the equaliser, a deep cross is headed down by James and Savo scalfs it home... if he'd hit it clean, 'keeper probably would have got it.

For the winner, McLaren makes a great run into the box and nods the ball back into the path of Peaso who steers it home!

Pass marks for Goran, Ando, Cat (much more vocal) and Peaso. Rest were below their usual standards.

[Nairn Saint]

I take it that the Cat has reclaimed the keepers jersey based on his performance?

[mainstand]

First goal Hardie misses a simple interception, Imrie swings in a fantastic cross and Arbuckle powers a close-range header past Cat.


I think you miss the point here that the ball went through the 6 yards box and Cat made no attemp to come for it at all. Yes Hardies should have won teh ball on the right but there were a few others to blame as well. Who was picking up the scorer?

Clyde were the usual diving cheating shower. I don't think we will have heard teh end of it with regards to the ball being booted into teh stand towards the end. The ref gave the freee kick and there was no need for it. Hope the person that was hit is okay.

[saint_markperth]

.

For the winner, McLaren makes a great run into the box and nods the ball back into the path of Peaso who steers it home!

Did someone really say that, I told you the lad would come good

[Cagey]

First goal Hardie misses a simple interception, Imrie swings in a fantastic cross and Arbuckle powers a close-range header past Cat.


I think you miss the point here that the ball went through the 6 yards box and Cat made no attemp to come for it at all. Yes Hardies should have won the ball on the right but there were a few others to blame as well. Who was picking up the scorer?

Clyde were the usual diving cheating shower. I don't think we will have heard the end of it with regards to the ball being booted into the stand towards the end. The ref gave the freee kick and there was no need for it. Hope the person that was hit is okay.

Hardie should have pushed out for a throw(guy has no control over his legs)Mensing should also have done better & ball was far too high for the Cat. Sheerin or Stanic were nowhere to be seen to cover the goalscorer.

[pavel]

Probably didn't deserve the win today, but hey I'll take it.

Credit to OC as I feel he made the correct substitutions at the correct time.

The tactics were wrong at the start though. We look better with a 4-4-2.

There was a spell in the second half where we couldn't string one pass together and it looked like Mcmanus was going to get robbed by there striker at any moment. He deserved to get subbed.

Overall the ball was in the air to much and just going anywhere.
CLyde looked like a better passing side than us, especially first half and they are pash.

[Radford 72]

I think you miss the point here that the ball went through the 6 yards box and Cat made no attemp to come for it at all. Yes Hardies should have won the ball on the right but there were a few others to blame as well. Who was picking up the scorer?

Clyde were the usual diving cheating shower. I don't think we will have heard the end of it with regards to the ball being booted into the stand towards the end. The ref gave the freee kick and there was no need for it. Hope the person that was hit is okay.
Come on MS, it was a fantastic cross. You can't blame KC for not coming for it.

Scorer was Kevin James' man, Arbuckle.

[HeronAddict]

The first game I've made it back to since Partick Thistle in November (just before Ibrox) and what a difference-we were utterly hopeless! Quite how we managed to steal a win from that I still don't know.

Some credit has to go to Coyle for putting three up top, as to that point we were completely lacking in inventiveness, penetration or any enthusiasm (apart from Cuthbert). Pretty big error from Joe Miller continuing to play with 3 centre-halves after McLaren came on - that probably cost his team the game.

Having read what you've all been saying about recent performances, there's no doubt that its the midfield that's letting us down. We have solid defenders and strikers who will score given the chance, but we are completely lacking any sort of creativity in the middle of the park, particularly if Sheerin isn't on top form, which he wasn't today. Somebody who can take the game by the scruff of the neck is a must - but how long have we been saying that?

[pavel]

....there's no doubt that its the midfield that's letting us down. We have solid defenders and strikers who will score given the chance, but we are completely lacking any sort of creativity in the middle of the park, particularly if Sheerin isn't on top form, which he wasn't today. Somebody who can take the game by the scruff of the neck is a must - but how long have we been saying that?

Agree.

The right hand side is poor aswell, Hardie is a bit of a weakness at times, although he does do good in the air. I would have Mensing in the middle with a new creative midfielder and a new right sided player.

[SaintSam1884]

Kevin Cuthbert is head and shoulders better than Bryn Halliwell and - as Radford says - much more vocal as well. He went crazy at McManus and James after their combined efforts to let Clyde in mid-way through the first half.

Also agree that our midfield is our real weak point. It's just far too slow, needs some pace and signing the likes of Tosh/McInnes won't give us that.

[TheBigCheese]

Scorer was Kevin James' man, Arbuckle.

Yup and he was nowhere near him, went chasing a ball he was never going to get at the near post instead of picking him up. I thought James was rank rotten today and he'll be back on the bench for Saturday if OC has any sense.

[Radford 72]

Scorer was Kevin James' man, Arbuckle.

Yup and he was nowhere near him, went chasing a ball he was never going to get at the near post instead of picking him up. I thought James was rank rotten today and he'll be back on the bench for Saturday if OC has any sense.
Possibly his worst game in a Saints shirt. Luckily it's a rarity for him to play that poorly.

[pavel]

If Ando is on the bench next week then it will be a joke.

I hope the Saints fans chant his name if he is.

[dave mc]

The Cat flapped at at least two crosses,made one feeble punch,so can't beleive he was any better than Geri or any better than he was before he got dropped!Stanic has not got the energy to get up and down the park-he was 35 yards away from the back post at their goal,didn't seem to know his role in the first 30 mins,but did come on to a reasonable game.3-5-2 is mince if you have no pace .Credit to OC for changing things and going for broke,McLaren did really well at the winner ,with a good header-it was quick intelligent play.Still no getting away from it,we were murder for most of the first 80 mins!

[dave mc]

They had two men over at the back post,at the goal,even superman would struggle wi' that!

[SaintSam1884]

The Cat flapped at at least two crosses,made one feeble punch,so can't beleive he was any better than Geri or any better than he was before he got dropped!

Rubbish.

On past experience, Halliwell either wouldn't have come out for those crosses or would have made no connection with them at all if he did. Cuthbert didn't get a lot on one of them, but he got enough to get the danger away from the immediate penalty area.

He was head and shoulders better than anything I've ever seen from Halliwell this season. There's not even an argument to be had in that regard. He dealt well with being introduced into passing moves with the defence, even those you could argue he should never have been asked to become involved in and his kicking was miles better than Halliwells.

He's no Alan Main, but he's not going to cost us points in the way Halliwell has done in the past few weeks.

[Radford 72]

Finally released today I much prefer us playing 4-4-2 to 3-5-2. Thought we looked uncomfortable with the new formation.

Hope we go back to 4-4-2 for Saturday.

[Billy Budd]

[quote="mainstand"]I think you miss the point here that the ball went through the 6 yards box and Cat made no attemp to come for it at all.

C'mon Mainstand....that's a misleading description of their goal and a wee bit unfair on Cuthbert. The ball didn't go through the 6 yard box. It was a good deep cross and was headed in at the back post.

Good 3 points today even if the performance didn't deserve it.

[Scobby_SJFC]

Another Saints Rollercoaster!

Reminded me off a Sainst Partick game two seasons ago, when the opposition outplayed us yet we got 2 late goals and won!

Anderson was superb and Milne tried his best, Goran was decent the rest were rubbish, crap long balls all the time, and we seemed unable especially in the 2nd to get the ball on the deck and play football, and deserved to get boo's! We were apauling, as bad a performance as ive ever seen Saints play!

Lucky we have 2 good strikers, good result, very poor performance!

[mainstand]

He's no Alan Main, but he's not going to cost us points in the way Halliwell has done in the past few weeks.

I hope you are not made to eat your words cause he did cost us points in teh past.

As for today I personally thought he was shaky at cross balls and despite what Radford says I think he should have come off his line for teh goal. is kicking was good though. I don't think there is nmuch between the 2.

[SaintSam1884]

He's no Alan Main, but he's not going to cost us points in the way Halliwell has done in the past few weeks.

I hope you are not made to eat your words cause he did cost us points in the past.

As for today I personally thought he was shaky at cross balls and despite what Radford says I think he should have come off his line for the goal. is kicking was good though. I don't think there is nmuch between the 2.

I think he's better than Halliwell, and feel quite comfortable with my thinking that he won't make such basic errors as we have witnessed from Bryn this season. It's obvious that Saints fans have been spoilt with the quality of keeper we have managed to lure to McDiarmid Park but Cuthbert is not a bad keeper by any stretch of the imagination.

[Blues Brother]

He's no Alan Main, but he's not going to cost us points in the way Halliwell has done in the past few weeks.

I hope you are not made to eat your words cause he did cost us points in the past.

As for today I personally thought he was shaky at cross balls and despite what Radford says I think he should have come off his line for the goal. is kicking was good though. I don't think there is nmuch between the 2.
Pretty much agree with Mainstand here. Any cross in the 6 yard box is the keepers. Arbuckle didn't even have to jump for it. Anyone notice Sheerin giving him an absolute rollicking. However about ten mins later an almost identical cross came over. Did Cuthbert claim it ? Nope!!!!!!!!!! This time it had to be scrambled away.

[Shaggy Jenkins]

He's no Alan Main, but he's not going to cost us points in the way Halliwell has done in the past few weeks.

I hope you are not made to eat your words cause he did cost us points in the past.

As for today I personally thought he was shaky at cross balls and despite what Radford says I think he should have come off his line for the goal. is kicking was good though. I don't think there is nmuch between the 2.
Pretty much agree with Mainstand here. Any cross in the 6 yard box is the keepers. Arbuckle didn't even have to jump for it. Anyone notice Sheerin giving him an absolute rollicking. However about ten mins later an almost identical cross came over. Did Cuthbert claim it ? Nope!!!!!!!!!! This time it had to be scrambled away.

I agree with that, he was badly positioned for the cross, however between Hardie and Mensing it should never of happened. As far as I am concerned both our keepers will cost us the same amount of points over the course of the season

Couple of other points

Back 3s are crap and leave us far to exposed, if Clyde were any better we would of been steam rollered

I believe their no 5 will be charged with assault (rightly so), the Polis were waiting to speek to him by the dugouts. I wonder if they also saw wee neddy malone have a swing at Hardie.

Shite game of football we deserved he haw and the result just papers over the cracks. Its time now for OC to put up or shut up. I am not seeing progress or a plan for the future shaping up at this moment in time

[templeofsaints]

Thought of the two sides we deserved the win but the overall performance was a lot poorer (Stanic out of position too often, Sheerin fading out of the game, James poor and Scotland back to his old self at times). Cuthbert back in goal was a lot better -couldn't have done anything at the goal but at least gave a bit more confidence at the back (I didn't even brick it when he dribbled the ball clear at the start of the 2nd half).

Defensively I though McManus was poor as well as James - too many slack passes and too often just hoofing the ball up the park. Anderson was excellent though. Midfield and only Sheridan and Mensing seemed to be up for it - Sheerin took a while to get going, Stanic was caught out a few times and as for Hardie, I'm still trying to figure out what he brings to the side especially since his first touch is a nightmare, his passing poor, his heading abysmal and he can't cut out a simple ball.

Ach well at least there's only one more game till the window opens!!!

BTW Anyone see Malone go all Psycho-ned on Sheridan at fulltime - Miller seemed to send him up the tunnel while Hardie kept Dazza under control :)

[Scobby_SJFC]

Anybody else think Sheridan should just retire now?

[Tranmere Saintee]

Anybody else think Sheridan should just retire now?

Why? :?

[Nairn Saint]

He's no Alan Main, but he's not going to cost us points in the way Halliwell has done in the past few weeks.

I hope you are not made to eat your words cause he did cost us points in the past.

As for today I personally thought he was shaky at cross balls and despite what Radford says I think he should have come off his line for the goal. is kicking was good though. I don't think there is nmuch between the 2.
Pretty much agree with Mainstand here. Any cross in the 6 yard box is the keepers. Arbuckle didn't even have to jump for it. Anyone notice Sheerin giving him an absolute rollicking. However about ten mins later an almost identical cross came over. Did Cuthbert claim it ? Nope!!!!!!!!!! This time it had to be scrambled away.

Eh, have we not got a six foot seven centre back for helping out in such situations?

[dave mc]

Finally released today I much prefer us playing 4-4-2 to 3-5-2. Thought we looked uncomfortable with the new formation.

Hope we go back to 4-4-2 for Saturday.

Always have advocated 4-4-2 is best.All the top teams in europe with the top coaches go more or less with it,except the mighty Saintsam :wink: ,not sure of what level Sam played at,or coaching badges he has,but defo has a different take on games, from many.

[dave mc]

He's no Alan Main, but he's not going to cost us points in the way Halliwell has done in the past few weeks.

I hope you are not made to eat your words cause he did cost us points in the past.

As for today I personally thought he was shaky at cross balls and despite what Radford says I think he should have come off his line for the goal. is kicking was good though. I don't think there is nmuch between the 2.
Pretty much agree with Mainstand here. Any cross in the 6 yard box is the keepers. Arbuckle didn't even have to jump for it. Anyone notice Sheerin giving him an absolute rollicking. However about ten mins later an almost identical cross came over. Did Cuthbert claim it ? Nope!!!!!!!!!! This time it had to be scrambled away.

That's right Blues,it's much easier for the keeper to get height from running out off his line,than a centre half running backwards,it's not hard to understand!!

[Radford 72]

Always have advocated 4-4-2 is best.All the top teams in europe with the top coaches go more or less with it,except the mighty Saintsam :wink: ,not sure of what level Sam played at,or coaching badges he has,but defo has a different take on games, from many.
She! :wink:

[dave mc]

Always have advocated 4-4-2 is best.All the top teams in europe with the top coaches go more or less with it,except the mighty Saintsam :wink: ,not sure of what level Sam played at,or coaching badges he has,but defo has a different take on games, from many.
She! :wink:

That explains it Radford!Take it she had done the dishes and hoovering,christmas can be a hectic time ! :wink:

[chopper]

First game since Gretna and about my 8th or 9th this season. For me, arguably the worst performance we have put in (I include Gretna in that) yet we still won the game - very much an undeserved 3 points but will take them none the less.

4 goals now guaranteed at Firhill then its only Ross County to worry about!!! We could be within 2 points by this time next week :wink:

(PS If anyone wants the stuff I'm on - Kopparberg's Pear Cider :D )

[Steve Maskrey]

Savo was saying in the papers today that Saints need to start grinding out results and he got his wish this afternoon :***: We looked good in spells when the ball stayed on the ground and we managed to pass it about well but in the first half we were the same old Saints, controlling a lot of possession, trying to walk the ball into the net and almost ready to be punished for not taking chances.

I give OC credit for not wasting time in bringing on the subs and changing the formation when McLaren came on. It seemed as if it was going to take something special or a fluke to get us back in the game and it did! Once we got the equaliser, the fans got behind the team and while we deserved a draw, we took advantage of their weak defending and snatched a winner.

I reckon this result will be our turning point. A win next week against Partick will give us a nice wee 3 point gap over them and put us in the position to put pressure on Gretna. This league is definitely not over and the second half of the season should be interesting :P

[MUZZ]

pretty piss poor game to be honest but a wins a win eh? credit where credits due though about cuthbert, he was alright but his kicking was pretty dire at times. ando played well but the rest of the defence looked well shaky most of the game. still crap in midfield but until we sign some folks to play there that aint gonna change. i still think jason is a great talent but its time to start with savo and peaso as they are the boys getting the goals for us at the moment.

[Scobby_SJFC]

Anybody else think Sheridan should just retire now?

Why? :?

Thought he was gash!

[saint_markperth]

Anybody else think Sheridan should just retire now?

Why? :?

Thought he was gash!

***, ur having a laugh aint u?

[Broon]

Honestly, some of the nonsense posted on here regarding Cuthbert is insane.

Regarding 'flapping crosses', he came for one in the first half, shouted and charged out but James headed it clear - what exactly can a keeper do if the defender decides to ignore him?

The 'feeble punch' a bit later was also fine, he got contact and put it away from danger instead of letting a Clyde player get a free header. Geri would have stayed on his line, guaranteed.

Finally, the goal. How can anyone with a pair of fully functioning eyes blame him? When a cross is about to be sent in from that position, a Goalkeeper has to be positioned towards his front post so as not to be caught out (unless its a corner). The cross was a quick, dipping one to the back which he could get nowhere near and the header was a bullet. Seriously, why is it not one of our defenders faults who 1) never prevented the cross or 2) left a free man at the back post? People look to blame Cuthbert too easily, its shocking. I never once crapped myself because of the keeper today, unlike every single other week with Geri.

As for the match, its probably the worst we have been all season. Madness dropping our best player, Peaso, who incidentally changed the game when he came on. Savo's shooting was wayward for most of the game but took his goal well. Scotland was quite good but took a knock in the 1st half and never really got rid of it. Anderson and Stanic were excellent too though James, McManus and Mensing were as poor as they have been.

Daylight robbery we got 3 points but its about time we done that to someone as its happened to us enough. Also, full marks to McLaren for his run and header for Peaso's goal - I hope this is the spur he needs.

[101 Saint]

BTW Anyone see Malone go all Psycho-ned on Sheridan at fulltime - Miller seemed to send him up the tunnel while Hardie kept Dazza under control :)

By all accounts the scrap continued further up the tunnel, Weir and Mensing having a square go with Malone. Malone said, "it wisnae me, ah ever started it... Shez stuck the heid on me" Anyone able to confirm or deny???

[Scobby_SJFC]

Anybody else think Sheridan should just retire now?

Why? :?

Thought he was gash!

***, ur having a laugh aint u?

Every ball was negative, even when we were behind!
Looks to slow, just think we could do better!

[Steve Maskrey]

Every ball was negative, even when we were behind!
Looks to slow, just think we could do better!

If his passing was negative then it was because there was no-one moving into space in front of him. He's the difference between us holding our midfield or being walked over. Don't get me wrong, he's not 25 anymore but he's still a great player. For someone his size, his success rate at winning balls in the air is probably just as good if not better than our 6'7" captain.

Out of the players leaving us in the New Year, Sheridan will be the one we'll miss the most and need to replace him very quickly

[Radford 72]

Steve has called it spot on, as usual.

Cause and effect. The reason Sheridan was often passing the ball backwards was because there was no options in front of him. He didn't want to waste possession by playing a long ball so would pass the ball back to McManus or another defender then move back into space himself. Not to be confused with Mark "The Crab" "Pluggy" F'ck sake" Reilly who would often ignore advanced players to go backwards or sideways.

Shez didn't have his best game but how anyone can pick him out as the worst player is, in the words of the great Chris Kamara, unbelievable.

[blueheaven]

I think that game just goes to show how thin the line is between success and failure. Our performance was rotten and, if we'd ended up with the defeat that looked likely until the very end, I think it's fair to assume that calls for Coyle's head would be building momentum on here right now. Instead, we somehow managed to take all points and suddenly there's maybe a glimmer of hope that we can use it to kick-start our season.

Personally, though, I have to say I really despair when watching Saints these days. We have some really good individuals, but as a team we look pretty useless at the moment and too many of Coyle's decisions just leave me increasingly baffled. You've got to give a huge amount of credit to the team for clawing back all three points - but, if we were playing as well as we should be, we'd have killed that rubbish Cyde team off easily and never have been in such a disgraceful position in the game in the first place.

Thought Cuthbert looked very confident and assured yesterday - the number 1 shirt has to be his again for the time being. Interesting to see Lawrie not in the team - sadly, not before time as far as I'm concerned. Sheridan had another great game and it worries me that our already weak midfield is now going to be without a player of his calibre. Sheerin had the worst game I've seen from him since his first season here - personally I would have taken him off for a striker and gone 3-4-3 when we were chasing the game. Mensing and Hardie seem to have an almost telepathic misunderstanding of each other - we really need to sort out that right hand side.

Up front, Scotland was pony - it was like the Christmas miracle when Coyle actually opted to subby him. Milne had a superb effort in the first half and obviously got us the goal, but otherwise did pretty much his usual thing of running a lot with little benefit. I can't understand why Peaso was dropped for this one - he should have kept his place. McLaren looked rotten until we equalised when he suddenly leapt into action and actually started playing pretty well. I'd be tempted to leave him in the team for the next game.

Big changes are clearly needed though. I can only hope Derek McInnes is a far better player than I actually remember him being.

[Scobby_SJFC]

Every ball was negative, even when we were behind!
Looks to slow, just think we could do better!

If his passing was negative then it was because there was no-one moving into space in front of him. He's the difference between us holding our midfield or being walked over. Don't get me wrong, he's not 25 anymore but he's still a great player. For someone his size, his success rate at winning balls in the air is probably just as good if not better than our 6'7" captain.

Out of the players leaving us in the New Year, Sheridan will be the one we'll miss the most and need to replace him very quickly

Granted there was a lack of movement at times, but I there were a few passes which I just could not expalin what he was thinking, this sounds like am picking on Sheridan( wasnt the orignal intension), but there are others who need to look at themselves after that performance!

[blueheaven]

Finally released today I much prefer us playing 4-4-2 to 3-5-2. Thought we looked uncomfortable with the new formation.

Hope we go back to 4-4-2 for Saturday.

Is it not the case, though, that we're rubbish in both formations? I think the solution to our problems lies somewhere other than the constant swapping back and forward between 3-5-2 and 4-4-2 - we've been doing that for years, and it makes no difference.

[Cagey]

I think the reason we played 3 at the back was to accommodate Anderson. My fear is if we go to 4 at the back it will be McManus & James.

James was poor in the first half but he did play on after injuring his knee & did set up the first goal so I think we need him in the team for his commitment.

[Radford 72]

Is it not the case, though, that we're rubbish in both formations? I think the solution to our problems lies somewhere other than the constant swapping back and forward between 3-5-2 and 4-4-2 - we've been doing that for years, and it makes no difference.
I think we've looked more comfortable playing 4-4-2 this season, although it limits Goran a bit unfortunately.

I thought the back three was all over the place yesterday though and would be much happier with a back four. I think OC opted for 3-5-2 to match up to Clyde in midfield though. I thought, although we only drew, the 4-4-2 we played at Accies worked well.

The problem is, as Cagey, says, where does it leave Ando if we go with that formation. McManus and James would be the first choice picks I think but we can't leave Ando out on current form. Playing him at right-back would undo all the good progress he's made though as he can't play there.

Regarding McInnes, did you not think he was a decent player with Morton, Rangers and WBA, BH? I think, in his day, he was a top class player but it's questionable whether he's anywhere near that level now.

[Broon]

The problem is, as Cagey, says, where does it leave Ando if we go with that formation. McManus and James would be the first choice picks I think but we can't leave Ando out on current form.

Anderson is a better player than both James and McManus. I don't expect Coyle will ever see it like that though - unfortunately. James has his height, McManus has his strength but Anderson is the only all rounder we have and given a few years I think he could turn out to be a class player.

[blueheaven]

Regarding McInnes, did you not think he was a decent player with Morton, Rangers and WBA, BH? I think, in his day, he was a top class player but it's questionable whether he's anywhere near that level now.

From memory, he was decent with Morton, but nothing special. Wasn't he a bit of a back-up player for most of his time at Rangers? Did he ever get into the Scotland set-up during that period? I can't comment on his time at WBA because I never saw him play for them.

Don't get me wrong - I'm not saying he's a bad player. I think he's probably alright. But, as I say, from memory he's nothing special and that, combined with his age, doesn't exactly fill me with confidence that he's going to come here and be the catalyst in midfield to turn the whole team around. I think it's more likely he would come here and do a reasonable job until the end of the season without really making a huge difference. I hope he's excellent, though.

[McCarry One Nil]

Was yesterday not just one of those days that makes you glad you love football though. The whole rollercoaster of being absolutely despondent and then being elated-ecstatic and a' thae kind of words :***:

Aye we were mince but right now I don't care I came out of McD yesterday no giving one about that , but the fact we got 2 late goals to win a game - how many times have you come out when we've played well and got nothing My voice is about gone and i'm still well chuffed with the win.

Keep On Keepin' On

[Shaggy Jenkins]

The problem is, as Cagey, says, where does it leave Ando if we go with that formation. McManus and James would be the first choice picks I think but we can't leave Ando out on current form.

Anderson is a better player than both James and McManus. I don't expect Coyle will ever see it like that though - unfortunately. James has his height, McManus has his strength but Anderson is the only all rounder we have and given a few years I think he could turn out to be a class player.

correct and as such I have heard from a a good source Ando will not be signing a new contract next year as he is fed up playing well and then automatically getting dropped for the likes of calamity James

[Steve Maskrey]

Was yesterday not just one of those days that makes you glad you love football though. The whole rollercoaster of being absolutely despondent and then being elated-ecstatic and a' thae kind of words :***:

Aye we were mince but right now I don't care I came out of McD yesterday no giving one about that , but the fact we got 2 late goals to win a game - how many times have you come out when we've played well and got nothing My voice is about gone and i'm still well chuffed with the win.

Keep On Keepin' On

Great post and I agree totally. Forget whether we played well or not, we got the 3 points and what do points win :?: That's right, prizes :!: :!: If we keep winning games like this and we'll be in a very strong position come May.

On the debate on the defence, I'd like to see OC keep faith with the 3 centre backs. We have 3 very good centre backs and Anderson is too good to be sat on the bench. We all admit that Stanic plays better in a wing back position and I'm sure Lawrie will do as well as he can put a good cross in. I say we stick with it and the players will adapt to it no problem

[Cagey]

Can`t believe that Coyle stuck with Lawrie at right back all season & when he reverts to wingbacks which is probably Lawrie`s best position he drops him & plays Mensing who has been total crap for weeks now.

[Dilated Pupil]

Regarding McInnes, did you not think he was a decent player with Morton, Rangers and WBA, BH? I think, in his day, he was a top class player but it's questionable whether he's anywhere near that level now.

Unfortunately St. Johnstone are no where near the level of class of these teams either (apart from Morton) so that doesn't overly bother me. What is worrying is that he hasn't had much game time for a while now & we will need someone to come in and be on the pace immediately.

[Radford 72]

Unfortunately St. Johnstone are no where near the level of class of these teams either (apart from Morton) so that doesn't overly bother me. What is worrying is that he hasn't had much game time for a while now & we will need someone to come in and be on the pace immediately.
Before his release from Millwall around 15th December, he was also carrying a hamstring injury. :(

I should have made my point clearer earlier. Three things that concern me about this player with a proven pedigree...

1. Is he injury-free and going to remain so?
2. Is he match fit?
3. Does he have the desire to still achieve things in the game?

To be honest, I worry that the answer to all three is no, although I may be doing him a disservice regarding number three.

[Nairn Saint]

[quote=Dilated Pupil]Unfortunately St. Johnstone are no where near the level of class of these teams either (apart from Morton) so that doesn't overly bother me. What is worrying is that he hasn't had much game time for a while now & we will need someone to come in and be on the pace immediately.
Before his release from Millwall around 15th December, he was also carrying a hamstring injury. :(

I should have made my point clearer earlier. Three things that concern me about this player with a proven pedigree...

1. Is he injury-free and going to remain so?
2. Is he match fit?
3. Does he have the desire to still achieve things in the game?

There must be better options somewhere?

There's better to be had than him I hope!

[SaintSambo]

anderson was shit hot against clyde , but no happy at dropping lawrie. still think mcmanus is no my fave centre half. mensing was poor again. still need a midfielder who can spray the passes and attack teams. Never understood why oc subbed jason , he was actualy working for once , savo done nowt bar his goal . phew ***
overall st j were embarrising against clyde ,, 2nd to everything.. by the way also think clyde were a bunch of dirty hammer throwers and divers and time wasters ,especially that number 8
End of Rant... hopefuly no to be continued ***

[Steve Maskrey]

On the McInnes debate, he was Millwall's captain, Dundee Utd's captain before that and was quite a useful player for Utd before Brewster came in. I think McInnes will give us stability in midfield, will be able to make crucial passes and probably control games for us.

Just out of interest, what other options are there :? OC would be criticised for showing a lack of ambition if he didn't go after him, especially if he went to one our rivals. How serious is his injury :? Perhaps the drop in level will mean he can still play without aggravating it too much.

[Nairn Saint]

On the McInnes debate, he was Millwall's captain, Dundee Utd's captain before that and was quite a useful player for Utd before Brewster came in. I think McInnes will give us stability in midfield, will be able to make crucial passes and probably control games for us.

Just out of interest, what other options are there :? OC would be criticised for showing a lack of ambition if he didn't go after him, especially if he went to one our rivals. How serious is his injury :? Perhaps the drop in level will mean he can still play without aggravating it too much.

I stated that there must be better options but point taken, they are not immediately obvious or perhaps affordable. We have to be realistic.

[Radford 72]

On the McInnes debate, he was Millwall's captain, Dundee Utd's captain before that and was quite a useful player for Utd before Brewster came in. I think McInnes will give us stability in midfield, will be able to make crucial passes and probably control games for us.
Are you not worried at his lack of football in recent years though? Again, I'm not disputing his class in his prime but I worry just how far past that he is. He should be a good influence in the dressing room but it could be difficult if he's not playing well and how will he himself adapt to coming into a First Division dressing-room and not being captain?

[Dilated Pupil]

Are you not worried at his lack of football in recent years though? Again, I'm not disputing his class in his prime but I worry just how far past that he is. He should be a good influence in the dressing room but it could be difficult if he's not playing well and how will he himself adapt to coming into a First Division dressing-room and not being captain?

If he's paid as much attention to his fitness as he has to his Adonis tan, then we could have a black Darren Sheridan for the next 6 years.