Saints vs. Celtic 14/04/07

[18SJHedgieFC84]

Only 6 days to go, and 1 of our biggest game's in years. I cannot wait!

Thoughts?

Score?

Mon the Saints:D

[Radford 72]

I really do believe we have a chance of causing an upset if we can raise our game like we have done in some of our previous cup games and if our key players perform to their peak.

If Celtic play well, they'll win the game but they've shown in recent games they aren't firing on all cylinders at the moment and still not having won the league is bound to be at the back of their mind. They were very fortunate against Caley in the last round, recently lost to Falkirk and were unconvincing against Motherwell yesterday by all accounts.

We have a striker who is in the form off his life and I reckon he can cause the Celtic centre backs problems. Jason Scotland has 13 goals in his last 16 games and is developing a really good partnership with Peter MacDonald, who is slowly getting back to the Peter MacDonald of a few seasons ago. When Kevin James is on form he's almost unplayable at set pieces and he never fails to raise his game for these big occasions and has previous against Celtic, scoring Falkirk's semi-final goal against them in 1997. Every single one of our players is going to need to play well but Coyle has already proven this season that he can get that out of them in these cup ties.

We'll be missing Willie Dyer and Kevin Rutkiewicz whilst Steven Milne is unlikely to be available but that apart we should have a full squad to choose from apart from the cup tied Derek Lilley. Young Steven Doris will be on the bench to make up the U21 numbers.

I'd say that 9 players are guaranteed a jersey with the goalkeeping position maybe undecided and three, possibly four, others fighting over the last shirt. Simon Mensing will return to the side but the dilemma for Coyle is whether he plays at right back or right midfield and then who else plays out of Steven Anderson, Andy Lawrie, Filipe Morais and Willie McLaren.

I really like Filipe Morais but I think Coyle will make sure we are robust and will go with Mensing at right midfield with Steven Anderson continuing at right back.

Kevin Cuthbert has had numerous kicks in the teeth as a Saints player but I don't think Saturday will be another one and he'll be back in goal.

Cuthbert

Anderson - McManus - James - Stanic

Mensing - Hardie - McInnes - Sheerin

Scotland - MacDonald

Subbies: Halliwell, Lawrie, Morais, Jackson, Doris.

Willie McLaren will be the guy that misses out probably.

[Saintly Child]

I think we have nothing to lose and go for it.

Why not..

Need to watch for the up and over ball in defence as they will kill us for pace at the back, but other than that they are rubbish.

There is never a better time to do it than now.

Lets shut the West Coast Press up for good.

[Rodgers]

Saints 1-0 Celtic

Just do it!

keep believing

[fergster]

Got to beleive that the Saints will get another one over these west coasters
and i totally beleive we are going to do it .I put my neck on the line on a 2-0 victory .Big J tae score first .Absolutely gutted i canny get there but me and a couple of other saintees are going tae watch the match fae a tent in iraq Come on the saintees !!!!

[Rodgers]

whos in the home changing room?
does anyone know when the team bus leaves mc diarmid for hampden?

[Hazel1884]

whos in the home changing room?
does anyone know when the team bus leaves mc diarmid for hampden?

I'm pretty sooper dooper sure it will be an overnight stay somewhere near Glasgow on Friday night!

[john1962]

whos in the home changing room?
does anyone know when the team bus leaves mc diarmid for hampden?


We were first out I think so it should be us.

[Nairn Saint]

I'm pretty sooper dooper sure it will be an overnight stay somewhere near Glasgow on Friday night!

I would copy the routine from Saturday, whatever that was, as it worked a treat.

[Paul N Shark]

Missing game on Saturday, will be stuck on a tanker offshore Angola, be back for the final though, Come on SAINTS, YOU CAN DO IT !

[garydavidson]

I really am thinkin we can do this. it will be easier for us to raise our game than for celtic. We just have to be aware from the start unlike the hibs game where that first goal killed us.

But like then what ever happens im sure every saints fan there will be singing their hearts out.

This will be my first time seeing saints at hampden so quite excited.

I think radford has the line up spot on. After watching mensing back in defence in some games i think he will be much better battling away in the middle. He just has to make sure he stays right and does not get too dragged in to the middle.

Hope to see anderson in the back four he always brings a calming of my nerves when i see his name on the team sheet.

would love us to do it if we do my phone bill is going to be huge calling all those bams i know :D

lets get right behind them.

[garydavidson]

haha just reading through the TOSSA 2006 awards the predictions for this season scottish cup are rather funny -

"As for the Scottish Cup, past performance seems to stick in the mind and a one-game appearance expected for 2006-07 although one deluded soul expects us to win it."

that one person could still be right

[razz the kid]

Love the confidence guys. I think the same myself, couldnt get them at a better time and the boys will be well up for it. com on ye saints!:razz:
Thats the line up for me too radford.

In the £25 seats cant wait.

Saints 2 Celtic 1
Scotland, Hardie.

[Steve Maskrey]

I'm really excited about the game despite not being able to go but that won't stop me watching it on tv. There's always a chance of an upset in a game like this and especially as Saints will go at them like we've done in every other cup game so far. If we can avoid giving away silly free kicks within striking distance of the goal, there's no reason why we can't win it.

Every one of our players will be at their best but I think Jason will cause them a few problems and maybe sneak a goal.

Optional bonus trip for keen fans will be to stop off at Hamilton on the way back to cheer them on against Gretna :)

[Chansey]

Young Steven Doris will be on the bench to make up the U21 numbers.


Broke his metatarsal yesterday, so is out. I'm guessing that would cause for possibly bobby barr to take a place on the bench, other possibilities are mark gallagher and adam monaghan. OR taking Halliwell out the squad and replacing him with O'Brien, would be surprised if that happened though.

[scarysaint]

I live in Glasgow and got a spare ticket if someone wants to go with. I'm on crutches so need a 'helper'. Anyone interested?

[Nick]

Optional bonus trip for keen fans will be to stop off at Hamilton on the way back to cheer them on against Gretna :)

I was thinking a few folk might do that. I would be up for it!! C'Mon Hamilton!

[Radford 72]

Broke his metatarsal yesterday, so is out. I'm guessing that would cause for possibly bobby barr to take a place on the bench, other possibilities are mark gallagher and adam monaghan. OR taking Halliwell out the squad and replacing him with O'Brien, would be surprised if that happened though.
It has to be two outfield players unfortunately. St Mirren were fined last season for having only one outfield U21, despite having U21 goalkeeper and general diddy Chris Smith on the bench.

Gonna be a day to remember for Barr, Monaghan, Gallagher or Steven Kerr!

[Cagey]

Think Celtic will be a bit nervous about this game going on our past record against SPL teams. We are not expected to win so there is no pressure on us.

If we only have to have 2 under 21`s in the pool we are covered by Ando & Jacko. If Doris is unfit then there is a place in your squad for oor Wullie ,Radford.

[MUZZ]

Missing game on Saturday, will be stuck on a tanker offshore Angola, be back for the final though, Come on SAINTS, YOU CAN DO IT !


its yer goodself lad. you getting sky tv over there mate?

[Chansey]

Think Celtic will be a bit nervous about this game going on our past record against SPL teams. We are not expected to win so there is no pressure on us.

If we only have to have 2 under 21`s in the pool we are covered by Ando & Jacko. If Doris is unfit then there is a place in your squad for oor Wullie ,Radford.

I think Mclaren is 22, Ando 21 (i thought that made him eligible?)

Having only seen the reserve/under 19s a few times this season, i would go for Bobby Barr, seems to have a bit of pace about him. However, that aspect will be covered by Morais. Assuming ando isn't eligible, what do people who have seen the youngsters more often think? Mark Gallagher would be my second choice in terms of quality.

I think OC will name the player he feels is strongest mentally, i don't think he will be looking to play the lad he names, but if he has to then he will want to ensure he won't totally freeze under the occaision.

[MUZZ]

we can create something special on saturday. i really believe we will win down to the fact of we have some players who when they raise their game, they really raise it. every game we play outside the cup the pressure is on us, not saturday and that will help our boys. BRING IT ON

[^sainteebrian^]

COS I GOT THE GOLDEN TICKET

p.s. im going :D

[eksaint]

Think Celtic will be a bit nervous about this game going on our past record against SPL teams. We are not expected to win so there is no pressure on us.

If we only have to have 2 under 21`s in the pool we are covered by Ando & Jacko. If Doris is unfit then there is a place in your squad for oor Wullie ,Radford.

According to Saints website Ando turned 21 in December 2006.

[Chansey]

According to Saints website Ando turned 21 in December 2006.

so does that not make him eligible? I am basing this on the likes of international U21 matches, where i thought 21 year olds could play?

[Scobby_SJFC]

Any word on how many tickets we've sold now??

[sjfcgs]

All i can say is, i'm really up for this & hopefully so will the boys come saturday.

1 things that worries me: Celtic are there for the taking on Saturday but they must be due some goals?
hope not!

single goal victory for the blooooes!

oh and for anyone that really rates our chances 19/1 for us to lift the cup!

[^sainteebrian^]

im in the family section i think :( not sure

[templeofsaints]

Celtic are there for the taking on Saturday but they must be due some goals?
hope not!

Two words...Charlie Richmond :(

[marc05-sjfc]

Two words...Charlie Richmond :(

Charlie Richmond = .......need i even say?...

[Radford 72]

If we only have to have 2 under 21`s in the pool we are covered by Ando & Jacko. If Doris is unfit then there is a place in your squad for oor Wullie ,Radford.
They have to be U21 on 1st January 2007 I think. Ando turned 21 in December and Willie is 23.

[Broon]

I can't wait for this game - most excited I have been in years. Should be a great game. Celtic obviously should win but in cup games we have shown spirit and played well beyond our capabilities. If we can do that again, who knows :)

[Paul N Shark]

No chance of getting it, will be on the phone for updates........ I want to be in that number When the SAINTS GO MARCHING IN !!!!!!!!

[THE REBEL SAINT]

coyle refused to touch the scottish cup at press confrence two day as he is superstious!!!
what does that tell you,

[mainstand]

coyle refused to touch the scottish cup at press confrence two day as he is superstious!!!
what does that tell you,

that coyle is superstious!!!

[mainstand]

They have to be U21 on 1st January 2007 I think. Ando turned 21 in December and Willie is 23.


Radford I think it will be on Januray 1 2006. The age groups always work in teh year in which the league starts.

[guisboroughsaintee]

who do you think we'll get in the final?

[Saintly Child]

Who do you think Sky will get for the studio normally they have a ex player from each side.

Cmon down Roddy Grant. Probably Kernagan.

[Saintly Child]

Any word on how many tickets we've sold now??

4700 I thought we would sell a lot more than that. Not long ago we could get 6000 against Forfar.

[saint in exile]

Tickets are on sale till 5pm on Friday ,so we should sell more than 4700.How many tickets were we allocated anyway

[Radford 72]

Celtic are stuggling to sell their initial allocation of 24,000. Best fans in the world right enough.

[Saint Paul]

I am now getting really excited for this that I am not sleeping properly at night, and we still have 4 days to go !!!! I am going to be a gibbering wreck by Saturday.

[Paul N Shark]

10/1 in Willie Hills, even the Tims will be having some of that !!!! P.S. Still no got a visa yet for ANGOLA . Is him up there a SAINTEE ?

[Hazel1884]

Getting excited now - Jason looks a natural dancing about with the cup on the main page! ***!

I imagine the papers will be full of build up today - i.e. The Record Wednesday pull out?

Disappointed there's not been an interview with Peaso or Willie McLaren or something yet along the lines of "I'm a Ger and can't wait for the chance to get ir right up the Tims!" rather than the 'Tic love fest from Mr Hardie....

[Baiggers]

Apparently a Celtic fan tried to buy 3 tickets from McD and when he went to get his money to pay for it pulled out... a Celtic wallet! What a fanny, see you later pal!

Like Radford says they're nowhere near sold out so they can go and get them from their own club.

[dhs]

Celtic are stuggling to sell their initial allocation of 24,000. Best fans in the world right enough.

Thats a poor show on there half - saints manage to take around 10% of the population of Perth and they scrape together some!!

[Saintkev]

Thats a poor show on there half - saints manage to take around 10% of the population of Perth and they scrape together some!!

So Celtic fan from Perth, please explain why I have been to more Celtic games than you have?...

"You cannae ever get tickets!"

My hoop ye cant!

[dhs]

So Celtic fan from Perth, please explain why I have been to more Celtic games than you have?...

"You cannae ever get tickets!"

My hoop ye cant!

Im no Celtic fan, i think you have miss read what i was trying to say!

[Watty]

Has anyone taken a look at the weather for Saturday, its meant to be superb, warm and sunny!!! Oh how good is it goin to be humping the Tic in the sssuuuunnnnnnshhhiinnneee!!!

[Kevin]

Aye, saw that Watty, should turn wee Lennon's face a nice shade too :***:

[Saintkev]

Im no Celtic fan, i think you have miss read what i was trying to say!

I know you're not... was just recounting a conversation most of us will have had... your quote just reminded me of it!

'Mon the Saints!

[dhs]

I know you're not... was just recounting a conversation most of us will have had... your quote just reminded me of it!

'Mon the Saints!

sorry for a bit of a mix up!! come on the saints!!

[Saint O'Leith]

Bloody hell, the official match thread already relegated to page 2!

Anyhoo, my tuppence worth, I really hope MMM & Gunther get stuck into Lennon from the off. His discipline is getting worse by the week, could easily see a red for the wee bawbag if things aren't going his way. Just really unhappy Riordan is playing, he's trying to prove a point and there's no doubt he's got talent. On the other side of the coin, Pressley is utter pash, will be nice to see Kev make a fool of him.

[inex]

As the game is upon us, Ill throw in my 2 cents worth. I always hope Saints win in every game, anything can happen, but even though they have been ordinary in their last 4 games, it could be a bad time to be facing Celtic.

When you consider Celtic were pushing AC Milan over 2 legs not long ago, and Saints have fallen to the mighty QOS and Partick since then, and the gap between Celtic and any of the other SPL sides is large, there is no way Saints can win.

My honest opinion is that unfortunately Nakamura will just be too good for anyone in the Saints midfield, and he will dominate the game. If someone can hurt him, maybe Saints have a chance. :)

Hopefully Saints can get the ball up to Scotland and co. and an early goal could rock Celtic. Bring it on. :)

[templeofsaints]

Bloody hell, the official match thread already relegated to page 2!

Anyhoo, my tuppence worth, I really hope MMM & Gunther get stuck into Lennon from the off. His discipline is getting worse by the week, could easily see a red for the wee bawbag if things aren't going his way.

Alternatively given Charlie Richmond is in charge, it's more likely Hardie or Mensing will walk for being in possession of a blue shirt and not lying down to the OF.

[HertsSaintee]

http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/tm_headline=sfa-insist-hampden-ideal-host%26method=full%26objectid=18898287%26siteid=66 633-name_page.html

Gotta love this article about attendances at both semis in general. With a typical West Coast "if it's not an OF game, it's not worth bothering about" slant, it implies that the SFA are mad to play the cup semis at Hampden if only 25,000 tickets have been sold for each game, thereby having the SFA "defend" their decision. I'd expect somewhere around the 30k mark for Hibs v Pars, but for our game, surely 25k in the stadium says far more about glory hunting TFOE fans failing to turn out for their team than it does about Saints, who are bringing a decent number of fans given our current league position, the size of Perth and the fact we have further to travel!

Herts

[Radford 72]

http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/tm_headline=sfa-insist-hampden-ideal-host%26method=full%26objectid=18898287%26siteid=66 633-name_page.html

Gotta love this article about attendances at both semis in general. With a typical West Coast "if it's not an OF game, it's not worth bothering about" slant, it implies that the SFA are mad to play the cup semis at Hampden if only 25,000 tickets have been sold for each game, thereby having the SFA "defend" their decision. I'd expect somewhere around the 30k mark for Hibs v Pars, but for our game, surely 25k in the stadium says far more about glory hunting TFOE fans failing to turn out for their team than it does about Saints, who are bringing a decent number of fans given our current league position, the size of Perth and the fact we have further to travel!
We can only hope the Celtic players take the game as seriously as their fans. If their players run out to only 20,000 of them in a section holding nearly double that then it's sure to have an effect on them.

For a club that gets 60,000 at home games, they are taking the equivalent of us taking around 600 to the game!

[LewGti]

How many tickets have saints actually sold now? does anyone know? All my mates none of which support saints keep asking me how many fans are we taking and i said i think its about 6000, is that right?

[Kevin]

I think it is about the 6,500 mark Lew, over 10% of the population of Perth!! Celtic have sold less than half of their season ticket allocation......

What does this say to you??

Let's get right behind the Saints and we can out noise anyone with that size of crowd :D

[blueheaven]

http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/tm_headline=sfa-insist-hampden-ideal-host%26method=full%26objectid=18898287%26siteid=66 633-name_page.html

Gotta love this article about attendances at both semis in general. With a typical West Coast "if it's not an OF game, it's not worth bothering about" slant, it implies that the SFA are mad to play the cup semis at Hampden if only 25,000 tickets have been sold for each game, thereby having the SFA "defend" their decision. I'd expect somewhere around the 30k mark for Hibs v Pars, but for our game, surely 25k in the stadium says far more about glory hunting TFOE fans failing to turn out for their team than it does about Saints, who are bringing a decent number of fans given our current league position, the size of Perth and the fact we have further to travel!

Herts

I actually agree that the semis shouldn't be at Hampden - I've thought that all along. Hampden should be saved for the final, not have its value dilluted by using it for the semis too.

I also think that, while it's an acceptable venue for the final regardless of who's playing because that's what it's there for, this semi-final shouldn't be getting played in Glasgow because it's meant to be held at a neutral venue yet we're going there to play against a Glasgow team (okay okay, I know they like to pretend they're from Ireland, but we all know they're Weegies really).

[Rodgers]

Cummmon Yooooooooou Saints!!

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_cups/6550697.stm

says the kick off is at 3pm, twwwwattts!

or is it a 3pm kick off :O

[Paul N Shark]

My visa hasn,t arrived for my Angola trip, him up there is definately a SAINTEE, Hampden here i come, On my way up to McD for a ticket !!!

[Victor]

I actually agree that the semis shouldn't be at Hampden - I've thought that all along. Hampden should be saved for the final, not have its value dilluted by using it for the semis too.

I also think that, while it's an acceptable venue for the final regardless of who's playing because that's what it's there for, this semi-final shouldn't be getting played in Glasgow because it's meant to be held at a neutral venue yet we're going there to play against a Glasgow team (okay okay, I know they like to pretend they're from Ireland, but we all know they're Weegies really).
Spot on BH.

How they can call Hampden neutral given the number of games the OF play there is a joke, plus it being in Glasgow of course. Its their second home.

One of the many problems Scottish football has is that there are no 'in between' sized stadia that have a 25 - 35000 capacity, especially centrally situated. They jump from about 15000 to 50/60000.

[LewGti]

Sorry to post this here because its a little off topic but i couldnt see any where else suitable. I was just wondering where people who are driving their own cars tomorrow are planning on parking. Are people using the car park mentioned on the official site or are they just going to park in near by streets.

[Finners]

Couldnt agree more with you Victor!!!!! We need a 30,000 seater stadium or roundabout that in edinburgh or somewhere about there.

[Super J]

Really looking forward to tomorrow, to watch Saints at Hampden is going to be fantastic! This is what supporting a provincial team like Saints is all about, I've supported Saints since 1993 and never been to Hampden to watch them so going to make the most of it, enjoy the game, the atmosphere and hopefully the result! Also, think it will be a great atmosphere back in Perth tomorrow night and I for one will be lapping it up! Our day has come! Come on you Saints!

[Finners]

Does anyone know how many tickets saints have sold now? Last I heard was 4,700. Apparently Celtic have "only sold" 20,000........

[Paul N Shark]

Got mine this morning , just over 5000, maximum volume to morrow, make sure the Tims know were there !!

[Kevin]

Does anyone know how many tickets saints have sold now? Last I heard was 4,700. Apparently Celtic have "only sold" 20,000........


It's about 6,500

[Saintkev]

Got mine this morning , just over 5000, maximum volume to morrow, make sure the Tims know were there !!

Thank god, eh!? :wink:

[Finners]

It's about 6,500

No way!? If thats true I'm delighted surely we could be up at 7,000 by KO. Considering there is only just above 20,000 celtic fans we can outsing them easily - not that it was a problem anyway

[Kevin]

No way!? If thats true I'm delighted surely we could be up at 7,000 by KO. Considering there is only just above 20,000 celtic fans we can outsing them easily - not that it was a problem anyway

Aye, that's what I was told last night anyways

[double deluxe]

i have a dream...http://bebo.com/watch/3744171078

[Saintkev]

Aye, that's what I was told last night anyways

I just phoned, and despite the fact I had just told the sickest joke ever, or that's thw reaction I got from the wifie!!!, she said about 5,000 in a pretty dismissive way... it was just a bloomin question!!

[Nairn Saint]

Any news yet of the Saints side?

[Moray Blue]

Afternoon all - almost time.

C'mon!!!!

[SingaporeSaint]

Hi guys, we made it too half time then, fantastic. Best I can do is watch live text on BBC but sounds pretty even ?

[Moray Blue]

Good first half from Saints. Bit nervous in defence though.

What about the dive for the penalty? Disgrace. And can McGeady ever stay on his feet?

Jason should've scored early, but the boys have done brilliantly to get back in to the game and should really be ahead.

Second half - C'mon!!!!

[Indicator]

I'm stuck here out in the middle of the atlantic and BFPS TV have not taken the game. Unbelievably after screening Saints earlier legs. So I'm going off teletext. Which is slow Saints were 1-0 down for 15 minutes before I saw that they'd equalised. Was it a Penalty ?? Or was it a dodgy decision? Can anyone keep me updated.

[Nairn Saint]

Soft (typical) penalty, but Saints are holding their own! Celtic are not very good to put it politely.

[Moray Blue]

Soft (typical) penalty, but Saints are holding their own! Celtic are not very good to put it politely.

Soft puts it mildly Nairn - I'd call it a dive purel and simple.

[Indicator]

Tks 'NS'

[SingaporeSaint]

Sounded like a very impressive performance, I am very proud of my team even if i feel slightly dejected.

[sleepless]

aye well, next year eh?

[Moray Blue]

Dissappointed but not dejected. Good performance overall and we can be proud. Good noise from the Saints fans, certainly heard them more than the Celtic ones (except when they scored).

[Jimbo]

sounds like saints really had a good go, so thats all we can ask. unfortunate that we didnt get another goal out of it and get a deserved replay but a great performance is all we could want. and on the day that wasnt quite enough.

[Indicator]

So, once again, from what I gather, a dodgy pen. has won it for them. Can anyone tell me why ref's in Scotland 'fall over themselves' to award the OF dodgy penalties and NEVER apply the element of doubt to the advantage of the 'underdogs'. I await to hear what the majority of our fans who were at the match have to say about the decision. Cheers - bye for now.

[saint5588]

Even bbc scotland said it was a soft penalty that tells you how soft it really was!! Well gutted as should have taken something out of that game. Really well done to the saints team all round great effort and a great performance. Well done to the fans as well for the noise which was heard both on the radio and on the tv well done.

[Scobby_SJFC]

Ref cost us the game today, firtsly gave a way a very soft penality Kev did not touch him!!
Then Gave a very soft free kick, which resulted in the getting a corner and scoring!

Very proud of my team today, the Saints fan were great and we outplayed them for long peroids of the game, well done Saints, but yet another glorious defeat for the blues!!

[SingaporeSaint]

Supporting St Johnstone and Scotland all my life is bloody hard at times ***

[Nairn Saint]

God we had our chances to win that game but it was not to be. Celtic's first was a very soft penalty that looks worse every time you see it. Their second was down to poor defending at a corner.

Overall, we deserved more out of the game and, but for bad luck in front of goal, we could easily have got a second goal.

Well played Saints!

[Nairn Saint]

Supporting St Johnstone and Scotland all my life is bloody hard at times ***

Aye! It's a tough shift at times.

[garydavidson]

what a game just back. never saw the penatly clearly but a keeper should know not to do that. was supprised he was not booked or sent off really.

jason missed a chance he would have stuck away any other day of the week in the first hlaf.

superb crowd. celtic fans were non existant. was proud walking through glasgow with my saints top on. same as the hibs game the best team lost. our strikers never finished. a great day out. im shattered.

[dhs]

Great day out - best team lost.

[Broggy Man]

First and formost lets put this to bed It was a penalty. Slack header from James left the one i cant spell running through on cat he did dive like he had been shot by a ywelve bore but there was contact. Secondly The team did us proud out there I couldnt for long times of the game tell who the SPL champions were. We were probably unlucky not to get a penelty back But I am this guys biggest critic but he was outstanding today PEASO. along with the rest of the team not really a failure anywhere we made players like Harltley Pressley and the rest of the so called big earners look very ordinary and you can shove yer Naka whats it up yer ** he wouldnt get a game for us Aiden Macgeddie probably in the first half along with Riorden were probably there two stand outs

[Euanwilkie]

great performance today. totally gutted after that.

[garydavidson]

Aiden Macgeddie is pish. glad he does not play for scotland. ando was superb against him.

james took a while to settle in today i thought.

the crowd were superb.

[garydavidson]

saints fans that is :)

[Norsaint]

Saints fans were great. Peaso had a stormer and Hardie was magnificent in the second half. Very little if any contact with the pen. Just seen it on video. Arguably if Vinegar hadnt jumped The Cat would have clattered him so was probably wrong to dive in anyway. James should have cleared the header anyway.
My wife says match stats had Saints with as many shots on goal as Celtic.

[mainstand]

Thought the players and fans were great(where do they all go every saturday though?)

Not seen the penalty on the tele but my first thought was that the ref had fot it right. The cat started to come for it hesitated and then came, if he had come the first time he would have probably got it ok.

Thought Hardie was brilliant, not sure who got man of the match, but I would give it to hardie.

[^sainteebrian^]

is theer any footaage of the game out yet it was an amazing game saints fans were great

[frogan]

cuthbert was very slow out to the ball for the pen, which was soft but there was contact. james was pretty average today, we were terrible in the air and it cost us the match. hardie was well up for it, he was screaming for the ball at times. celtic fans were GARBAGE, no songs, noone turned up and they streamed out with 5 mins to go!!!

[Chansey]

First and formost lets put this to bed It was a penalty.

seen it through sky +....not a penalty!

[Ali91]

that was unbelievable. our grit and determinatian was superb but not only that we played some good football. second half we were all over them and the only spell they were on top was just at the end of the first half. dont think it was a penalty and dont think its fair to blame the cat as he made a few great saves. hardie man of the match. he was everywhere. the whole team was brilliant as where the fans. proud to be a saintee tonight. mon the saints.

[mainstand]

seen it through sky +....not a penalty!

Juat seen it on Sky sports news and totally agree. I thought at the match that it was a clear penalty but now I don't think so.

[Nick]

Gutted.

Once again this season the best team lost. We were cheated out of the final by that big dutch prick and his pathetic dive.

We controled the game in the second half. I was also told by someone waatching on the tele that she and the Sky cew thought we were denied a stonewall penalty. (Handball one maybe)? there was certainly a few claims.

Well done though lads. SXpecial mention to Hardie and Peaso who were twice the players of any of the Celtic one's.

[+Super Trooper+]

superb display. dominated them from around the 20 minute mark onwards. Good goal from hardie and for me a dive for their penelty, which was almost missed. Thought sheerin was imense today - best he has played in a while. Both cup runs were brilliant, now we just need to win the league :)

[Hazel1884]

It's hard not to be proud today.

We were FANTASTIC and gutted not to get the result but heads held high and we done it for all three lower divisions today and gave a great account of ourselves.

Defence and Keeper had no communication whatsoever for the first 20 mins and had me worried we were on to a hiding. Thankfully, they sorted themselves out and we started building from the back - some lovely football being played against the Tims today and we deserved to more than we got. Midfield and strikers linked well and played some BEAUTIFUL football.

The whole team were fantastic today but i feel a special mention to the following for excelling themselves yet again - Hardie (was everywhere, comitted, making important tackles and had some of our best shots!) Anderson (fantastic performance from the 21 year old against talent like McGeady and deserves more credit than he will likely get for the sublime pass for Hardie to score.) Stanic (Ice cool and involved in lots of play going forward however some of his defending was a bit dodgy at spells. Showed why he was nominated for PotY) Scotland and Peaso Both their workrates were fantastic today, linked well and some brilliant hold up play from them both too.

Best thing about it - we worked hard, played some brilliant football, getting merit from all places which is fully deserved and some players have most definately put themselves in the shop window for the summer on today's showings. Gretna had another poor result today - lets get a good support down to Clyde be noisy and get behind the team.

Here's to a celebration tonight - town is jumping right now!!

[Tranmere Saintee]

What can you add other than so proud of every player today (even Kebin James:D ).

Just disappointed that yet again that buffoon of a ref has cost us dearly - how the hell did Graveson get away with that attempt to break a players leg by going totally over the ball?

My only complaint against Saints was James wearing a Celtic shirt at the end which was about 6 inches too short for him:oops:

[Nick]

Just watched the game on SKY.


How anyone can think that was a penalty I dont know. Of course there was contact - the contact was made when VoH was already falling to the ground.

It was a 100% dive, and his interview at the end pritty much proved, that he himself thought it was a dive.
Sky's highlights were pritty shite. Missed large chunks of the game out especcially for Saints - including the clearance of the line and the penalty claim. Hopefully BBC's will be better the night!

[^sainteebrian^]

does any one know how to possible get the full game on video or something other than borrowing it from someone ??????!!!!!!

[scarysaint]

Thought the players and fans were great(where do they all go every saturday though?)

Not seen the penalty on the tele but my first thought was that the ref had fot it right. The cat started to come for it hesitated and then came, if he had come the first time he would have probably got it ok.

Thought Hardie was brilliant, not sure who got man of the match, but I would give it to hardie.

Unfortunately I live in Glasgow now and having a disability meaning I can only work part time means I can't get to games like I did in the past. Living close to Hampden meant I could go today. I taped the game and I don't think it was an obvious penalty, seen those not given.

[Nick]

Unfortunately I live in Glasgow now and having a disability meaning I can only work part time means I can't get to games like I did in the past. Living close to Hampden meant I could go today. I taped the game and I don't think it was an obvious penalty, seen those not given.

Hesselink was falling over before he even reached Kev

[auld reekie saint]

Saintees were magnificent today.We could have won.
Proud to be a saintee tonight.Hartley looked like the Saints reject he is.

[Radford 72]

Sorry guys but if that was at our end I think we'd be looking a pen. He jumped to avoid KC. Seeing it in slow-mo maybe works in KC's favour but he defo knocked VoH off balance although the no card call from Richmond was correct as he knocked the ball miles away from goal.

Actually thought Richmond had a decent game.

Feels like a missed opportunity and getting a bit fed up of the hard luck stories. Like Steve McQ said on P&B, of all the semi-finals I've been to see Saints in, we've deserved more on so many occasions.

Well done to the players, fans and OC and his staff though. Great day despite the result and I only hope we now go and win this f'cking league like we should.

[The Real Saints]

So proud of all the players today - magnificent performance from each and every one of them, despite a shaky start from the keeper and defence.
No way was that a penalty. I am furious at both Hesselink, for the clear dive, and the referee, for falling for it!
The game could have been so different if that hadn't happened, but regret is a wasted emotion. You can't turn back time. Having said that, I'm looking forward to seeing the replay of the foul for the penalty tonight.
Had a chat with a couple of Celtic fans at the end who were surprisingly nice, and admitted we were the better side, and also congratulated the fans on the noise that we made.
So, I'm disappointed, but not disheartened. Well done to everyone who turned out at Hampden today, to make it a great day out!
Now, back to league business! Gretna are slipping at the last hurdle.. Let's catch them! ;)

[saint_markperth]

does any one know how to possible get the full game on video or something other than borrowing it from someone ??????!!!!!!


;) will be ready by the monday pm me for it

[Ronaldo]

does any one know how to possible get the full game on video or something other than borrowing it from someone ??????!!!!!!
No but you'll get the Lesbian Lions 1967 European Cup Winning Video in the shops.

[Ali91]

Sorry guys but if that was at our end I think we'd be looking a pen. He jumped to avoid KC. Seeing it in slow-mo maybe works in KC's favour but he defo knocked VoH off balance although the no card call from Richmond was correct as he knocked the ball miles away from goal.
.

way to spoil our "we was robbed" front. :(

[Ronaldo]

Fantastic effort and Saints merited a draw. The penalty if it was looked a bit soft but I'll wait and watch the highlights tonight. Vinegar of Hasselbank looked as if he was going away from goal and Cuthbert's reaction was slow but his momentum forced the contact and also Vinegar looked as if he wanted the hit so that he could collapse and die for the audience. On the other hand both goals were avoidable from what I seen.

A draw would have been a fairer result.

I thought we varied our play very well with some great passing and driving movements in combination with some direct play. Pressley and Caldwell did not look their normal comfortable selves. Neil Lennon is an annoying wee shit. My wee 'Happy Feet' mascot thought that as well. Knackered Moora was kept quiet and Anderson did a good job on Traitor McGeady. Celtic's midfield and defence worked really hard to stop the supply from our midfield to Scotland/Peaso and that made Celtic spend most of their time defending, blocking and running the game down.

I don't think any Premier team has attacked Celtic as much as that all season. The Celtic fans were fairly quiet and I thought Peaso was very funny when he exchanged jerseys at the end and then passed his exhanged Celtic shirt on to someone else. :***:

[Finners]

The Celtic fans were fairly quiet

Really!!!!!!!??? I honestly didnt hear them sing much at all - I did like the attempt they made at you'll never walk alone which failed miserably. Credit to all the players and the fans today........no superlatives it was that good (except the result of course). PROUD TO BE A SAINTEE.

[templeofsaints]

Temple reports up now - I'm emotionally drained but (to quote Fergie), pwoud, vewy vewy pwoud to be a Saintee.

I'll need to see the highlights for the penalty call but it looked very soft. And given the handballs we were denied in the second half and the chances we missed, we deserved more from the game.

[Ronaldo]

Really!!!!!!!??? I honestly didnt hear them sing much at all - I did like the attempt they made at you'll never walk alone which failed miserably. Credit to all the players and the fans today........no superlatives it was that good (except the result of course). PROUD TO BE A SAINTEE.
They were just plain quiet. :wink:

[Finners]

They were just plain quiet. :wink:

You can't say that about the best fans in the world! ;)

[garydavidson]

you mena those of them that bothered to turn up. what a shit support honestly, best fans in the world? not a chance. shocking. but we get dragged into a debate about our fans not going, shocking.

[garydavidson]

Sorry guys but if that was at our end I think we'd be looking a pen. He jumped to avoid KC. Seeing it in slow-mo maybe works in KC's favour but he defo knocked VoH off balance although the no card call from Richmond was correct as he knocked the ball miles away from goal.

but surely he was last man? im not saying it was not a penalty it obviously was the second a keeper does that its going to go against him i was just baffeled how he got away with it. if the ref had judged he never stopped a goal scoring opportunity why give a penalty? it just confused me. thought he was going to be walking.

i bloody hate celtic fans, well the ones i know. some in town told me we were unlucky and said the better team lost. i just told them thats exactly what i heard in edinburgh.

lets get this league sorted once and for all. will try and scram together the pennies to go to clyde. is it 7.45 kick off as usuall midweek games?

[Wycombe Saintee]

Proud is a good word, very very proud! One of the best performances by a saints team that I have seen against that level of opposition, but then we have showed that time and time again this season! Just need to learn how to beat the teams in Division 1!!

[^sainteebrian^]

NO contact what so ever absolute joke of a ref

[templeofsaints]

Penalty was a shocker - no way was there any contact. Nice to see the BBC turned it into another Slag-The-Cat show as well. Interesting how they missed all Lennon's little square-go moments and worst of all failed to show that brilliant turn by Sheerinho to leave 2 Sellik players standing.

[Broon]

Gutted and proud all at the same time - what a rollercoaster! Proud to be a Saintee!

[nips]

Penalty was a shocker - no way was there any contact. Nice to see the BBC turned it into another Slag-The-Cat show as well. Interesting how they missed all Lennon's little square-go moments and worst of all failed to show that brilliant turn by Sheerinho to leave 2 Sellik players standing.


Surely that'll be on the showboat on Soccer AM next week - immense piece of skill.

[Saint O'Leith]

A fatastic day regardless. Was never a penalty,but in fairness at the time I thought it was. We could discuss the game forever, at the end of the day we should all be very proud, the Saints were unlucky to lose to a team which nearly made the Champions League quarter finals. (Even though they're pish).

Must hold my hands up to win the crass-Saintee-of-the-day award. was sitting right by the press section and had to put my hand on Mr Chick Youngs shoulder and give it the big "ho-ho-ho" right in his face. Don't think I've ever seen a look of such pure hatred in my 36 years!

[nips]

A fatastic day regardless. Was never a penalty,but in fairness at the time I thought it was. We could discuss the game forever, at the end of the day we should all be very proud, the Saints were unlucky to lose to a team which nearly made the Champions League quarter finals. (Even though they're pish).

Must hold my hands up to win the crass-Saintee-of-the-day award. was sitting right by the press section and had to put my hand on Mr Chick Youngs shoulder and give it the big "ho-ho-ho" right in his face. Don't think I've ever seen a look of such pure hatred in my 36 years!

I did that to him when I met him at a Scotland game a few years back! He truly hates it!

[Saint O'Leith]

Aye, these "St Mirren fans" have no sense of humour!

[True Saintee]

Most importantly... Did anyone see that camera women we had in front of us? Number 12 she was :O

F**king Hello Love!

[inex]

I had to watch the game with lots of Celtic fans because they wouldnt let me into a certain establishment because I was wearing shorts. God they can be a pain the ass, they could not understand why I didnt support Celtic and when I tried to explain to them that supporting Celtic would be f$*king boring, they were not happy.

Great game, proud to be a Saintee. Penalty decision was fair, what do you want Hesselink to do put his boots into Kev? Kev was too late on the ball, and he messed up. You cant blame that for the loss.

Perhaps OC waited too long in the 2nd half before bringing on Morais. Can someone tell me why Mensing is still on the right wing? He aint a winger! He is a slow, defensive minded thug, he doesnt belong on the wing, piss him off the wing OC!!!

Apart from all that, Jason had a great chance 1 on 1 but he took too long to shoot. Hardie's goal was great and he had a fantastic game. Peaso looked good when he got the ball. Most of the players played well. The 2nd half in particular I think Saints had more shots on goal.

Its just such a shame that a penalty and sloppy marking on a corner allows them to score twice, they certainly did not deserve to win, but not sure if they deserved to lose.

This game, and the cup runs show that it is remarkable Saints are not in the SPL, or being promoted this season. It also shows that when you play against teams that are so called 'lesser' teams, sometimes you can lose your focus.

[inex]

I think these stats are pretty correct:

http://www.saintjohnstone-mad.co.uk/news/loadrprt.asp?cid=MTCH&id=334264

[Nairn Saint]

A fatastic day regardless. Was never a penalty,but in fairness at the time I thought it was. We could discuss the game forever, at the end of the day we should all be very proud, the Saints were unlucky to lose to a team which nearly made the Champions League quarter finals. (Even though they're pish).

Must hold my hands up to win the crass-Saintee-of-the-day award. was sitting right by the press section and had to put my hand on Mr Chick Youngs shoulder and give it the big "ho-ho-ho" right in his face. Don't think I've ever seen a look of such pure hatred in my 36 years!

He HATES that! Wish I had done it to him.:)

[Tranmere Saintee]

Radders - did you get too much sunshine yesterday - to say Richmond had a good game is unbelievable. His bookings alone showed that, with Saints players going straight in without warnings yet the Celtic central defence were constantly warned 1 more foul and your in the book ( oh well 1 more and I'll consider it).

As for Gravesons totally over the ball for which we were given a free kick and he wasn't even spoken to - If the Saints player hadn't managed to avoid it it would have been a career threatening injury.

He was so far away from the play most of the game and for any ref to allow Lennon to abuse him so often without doing anything about it would in my opinion show what a spineless b*stard the guy is.

[Radford 72]

Radders - did you get too much sunshine yesterday - to say Richmond had a good game is unbelievable. His bookings alone showed that, with Saints players going straight in without warnings yet the Celtic central defence were constantly warned 1 more foul and your in the book ( oh well 1 more and I'll consider it).

As for Gravesons totally over the ball for which we were given a free kick and he wasn't even spoken to - If the Saints player hadn't managed to avoid it it would have been a career threatening injury.

He was so far away from the play most of the game and for any ref to allow Lennon to abuse him so often without doing anything about it would in my opinion show what a spineless b*stard the guy is.
A lot of the clowns at this level would've penalised Hardie for every challenge he made yesterday I feel. There were also times with high boots but it was a case of both players with their feet high, or one bringing their head down so Richmond used some common sense and let things go.

Usuallly the ref is the centre of attention in Saints games but I thought he was fine and fair in the main. McInnes' booking was harsh and maybe Hartley should've had one but Simon and Hardie can have no arguements.

I thought the ref could have been a lot worse yesterday and I usually slag them off so think credit is due on this occasion.

[Broggy Man]

Sorry guys but if that was at our end I think we'd be looking a pen. He jumped to avoid KC. Seeing it in slow-mo maybe works in KC's favour but he defo knocked VoH off balance although the no card call from Richmond was correct as he knocked the ball miles away from goal.

Actually thought Richmond had a decent game.

Feels like a missed opportunity and getting a bit fed up of the hard luck stories. Like Steve McQ said on P&B, of all the semi-finals I've been to see Saints in, we've deserved more on so many occasions.

Well done to the players, fans and OC and his staff though. Great day despite the result and I only hope we now go and win this f'cking league like we should.

Yes Radford I agree Kev was just that little bit late in getting there saw is again last night and your right if that had been Scotland at the other end we would have been screaming. i think it is willie young that said you dont need contact you only have to impede the player na dif the layer has to jump then it is the same is if contact was made. But hey we were stars out there abd I dont usual like Pat Nevin but hats off to heim in the face of OF bias he stuck up for us better creation better chances attacked better = better team on the day lost.

[jazzer]

Thought Saints were brilliant and deserved another go at the tims. I couldn,t make the game due to illness but managed to make it to Sportsters. That's the last time I go there for a game however, WHAT'S THE POINT OF A F***ING SPORTS BAR WITH NO F***ING COMMENTARY. I had to watch the highlights to appreciate the noise the Saintees were making on my behalf. Cheers guys and gals.

I thought the penalty was a stonewaller. Cat threw himself across his man and didn't get anywhere near the ball. Any striker worth his salt would go down in that situation. We would be screaming if Jase or Peaso didn't hit the deck.

[taylorboy69]

Sorry but until we get Cat out the goalkeeper position we will do nothing.

Great shot stopper but a keeper in this day and age has to offer me and for me he has cost just far too many times now and OC really needs to rectify this for the Clyde.

It is apparant that the defence has no confidence in him for cross balls and on more than one or two times yesterday James and even McManus were going totally mental at cuthbert for coming, not coming, coming etc etc.

His in-decision on wether to come at the Penalty incident cost us and to be honest, we were lucky a few of his other mistakes didnt cost us more in that opening 10/15 minute spell.

[mainstand]

Sorry but until we get Cat out the goalkeeper position we will do nothing.

Great shot stopper but a keeper in this day and age has to offer me and for me he has cost just far too many times now and OC really needs to rectify this for the Clyde.

It is apparant that the defence has no confidence in him for cross balls and on more than one or two times yesterday James and even McManus were going totally mental at cuthbert for coming, not coming, coming etc etc.

His in-decision on wether to come at the Penalty incident cost us and to be honest, we were lucky a few of his other mistakes didnt cost us more in that opening 10/15 minute spell.

Yes he was poor for teh first 20 mins, he actually says that himself in the paper, but after that he did okay. He makes a mistake it is highlighted because of his position but at the other end JS should have opened the scoring when one on one with the keeper.

[outatimecow]

It was never a penalty!!! Basically the big Dutchman cheated, i'd like to think if Jason had gone though at the other end he wouldn't have thrown himself into the keeper, i can't STAND cheats!!!! VOH knows he dived and it definitely leaves a bitter taste in the mouth that we got cheated out of a final appearance. I can't believe the BBC highlights that not one of them pointed out that he put his feet into Cuthbert and went down rather theatrically! I'm still raging about the referees performance yesterday, the big teams get the big decisions, simple as that. CHEAT CHEAT CHEAT CHEAT.

[Ray Blair]

very proud of Saints and the fans yesterday.Great day out-could only be topped by ging to the final itself.To see a Saints player score at Hampden was amazing!!!

It was interesting what Jan the Man said after the game when shown video evidence of his dive.he started to say it was a penalty as the goalie made contact with his hand.....and then kinda changed his mind.

We did well to come back from that and deseved more-alot more!!!

lets get it right up The Village People now and let them see how glorious defeat feels

[blueheaven]

For me, that was the best I've ever seen Saints play in an away game against the Old Firm (and let's face it - it was an away game). I've seen us going to these places in the past and play well in terms of containing them, soaking up pressure, getting a few chances and generally being really unlucky not to get something out of games, but that's the 1st time I've seen us go there and actually attack them, dominate them, press them, and actually leave them needing to try to crowd us out for lenthy spells. I mean, some of Celtic's defending yesterday was the sort of desperate last-ditch stuff you normally expect to see opposing SPL sides doing against them (e.g. the save off the line after Scotland beat their keeper, the huge scramble on the edge of their box). That said, I missed our win at Celtic Park in 98 and also our win at Ibrox this season, but have been at most of our other trips to these places in between.

The other thing that I think really needs highlighted is that we weren't just on top of them using strength/height - we were playing some fantastic football at times, and I think if you went there not knowing which team was which, you'd struggle to know for sure which team was on top of the SPL and a regular in the Champions League. The football we played, particularly when Stanic was involved getting forward, was really lovely stuff at times - and if Scotland had scored at the end of that passing move in the 2nd half, it would have been one of our greatest goals ever.

As for the penalty - it's fairly unclear even after watching it repeatedly on TV. Personally I think it wasn't a pen, but I did think it was one at the time so can't really blame the ref. Either way, it was Saints' own fault because James' back header was a nightmare and, crucially, the way Cuthbert came running out and went down at the guy's feet, he made it look like a penalty. As Radford says, if that had happened at the other end we'd have all been screaming for it.

Thought Peaso really showed what a brilliant player he can be - that pass to send Scotland clear through on goal in the 1st half was sublime. Hardie was also immense - I tend to forget sometimes that the guy's got skill as well as strength, but he really showed it yesterday (was loving his Ronaldo step-over down the left wing in the 2nd half!). The form/fitness of those two players could make or break us next season.

As usual we got praise for our performance against an SPL team and I noticed Gordon Strachan saying what a good addition we'd be to the Premier - but what these guys don't realise is that, sadly, we don't play like that every week in the First Division. That's the thing we really need to sort out for next season - everyone knows how good a team we can be now, so there's no excuse for not producing that against the likes of QoS, Clyde, Hamilton etc next season. If we can get that right, we'll hammer everyone next term, but it's still a pretty big "if".

[blueheaven]

One other thing... was anyone else thinking during the second half that, if we had managed to get an equaliser, it would have been massively unfair on us, but strongly in TFOE's benefit, if it had gone to a replay? They really should ditch the replays and use extra-time instead - I mean, yesterday, we had the momentum, we had them on the back foot, we had all of our fans there (many of whom had made a huge effort to travel from pretty far away), and we would have had a terrific chance to finish them off in extra time. If it had gone to a replay, we'd have lost all of that - the replay definitely favours the bigger club in that sense, and the idea of having to go back and do it all again in front of a smaller crowd sort of spoils the whole thing as an event.

[Ali91]

Sorry but until we get Cat out the goalkeeper position we will do nothing.

Great shot stopper but a keeper in this day and age has to offer me and for me he has cost just far too many times now and OC really needs to rectify this for the Clyde.

It is apparant that the defence has no confidence in him for cross balls and on more than one or two times yesterday James and even McManus were going totally mental at cuthbert for coming, not coming, coming etc etc.

His in-decision on wether to come at the Penalty incident cost us and to be honest, we were lucky a few of his other mistakes didnt cost us more in that opening 10/15 minute spell.

to be honest thats a load of rubbish. yes first fifteen minutes he was nervous but its the biggest game of the lads career course hes going to be nervous. after that he was solid as a rock and made one or two first class saves. ( one from hartley , one from graveson he could easily of spilled and the tip over from hesselink) everytime we've brought someone in to replace him theyve not been anywhere near his quality( except mcgregor, who is an spl keeper and not someone we could of held on to long time, and possibly glennon, however he never set the league alight, although seemingly hes playing well at his new club). imo he should be first choice next year too and if he makes these mistakes your talking about we have got a top class goalkeeper to challenge him for the shirt. mon the cat.

[montrosesaintee]

Quality day out yesterday, except for the result. We even made more noise outside the ground than the tims. they all looked utterly miserable, which made the day feel better. I couldn't stop smiling, dispite the defeat and a very sore throat. Proud indeed to be a saintee. Just hope Gretna loose the plot now.

Singing 'can you hear the celtic sing' with five minutes to go, whilst loosing 2-1 summed it all up for me.

[blueheaven]

to be honest thats a load of rubbish. yes first fifteen minutes he was nervous but its the biggest game of the lads career course hes going to be nervous. after that he was solid as a rock and made one or two first class saves. ( one from hartley , one from graveson he could easily of spilled and the tip over from hesselink) everytime we've brought someone in to replace him theyve not been anywhere near his quality( except mcgregor, who is an spl keeper and not someone we could of held on to long time, and possibly glennon, however he never set the league alight, although seemingly hes playing well at his new club). imo he should be first choice next year too and if he makes these mistakes your talking about we have got a top class goalkeeper to challenge him for the shirt. mon the cat.

Have to disagree with that. Cuthbert has played in big games before and, while nervousness is understandable, it's still something you'll rightfully get criticised for. A goalkeeper who's nervous for 15 minutes isn't really something you can afford to have, particularly not in games against the Old Firm where losing an early goal can lead to you getting hammered. I hate to criticise players after a performance like yesterday, but I just have to back up what Taylorboy said - Cuthbert's a bit of a weak link for us and his defence seem to have little confidence in him - that's why every manager who's been here in his time has gone out and tried to find someone better. For me, Cuthbert's a fantastic back-up to be able to call upon, but there's absolutely no doubt that Main has to be number 1 next season.

[MUZZ]

some day yesterday. played brilliant.

[+Super Trooper+]

OC really needs to rectify this for the Clyde.



has anyone else realised that the cat only started making mistakes once he had been dropped for halliwell earlier in the season when kev was playing well???? for me its all down to confidence and allthough he was shaky in the opening 10-15 minutes in my opinion he made up for it with a few top drawer saves from the likes of hartley and graveson. People getting on his back and oc dropping him will not help his confidence. and who is oc going to play instead of him??? halliwell??? he has dropped us twice as many points as kc.
none of the goals on saturday were cuthberts fault (almost saved the pen) so why are people having a dig??? any mistakes he did make he/saints got away with but everyone makes mistakes, cuthberts are only highlighted cos he is our last line of defence.

[saint in exile]

I certainly think that if we had a better keeper than Cuthbert we would have won the league by now and possibly have made one of the cup finals.The penalty decision on Saturday was only an issue because Kevin commented himself too late,he should either have come earlier or not have come at all.Ok he did have a few good saves but i would have said they were pretty standard tbh,as for the tip over from VOH,it only looked like a good save because he is small(sorry height challenged).Don`t get me wrong i like Kevin,he is a local lad and has been a loyal Saints player,but i just think we need a better oneif we are to progress
Had a great day on Saturday though.Thought the ALL the boys done us proud.C`mon the Saints

[Ali91]

,as for the tip over from VOH,it only looked like a good save because he is small(sorry height challenged).

hes over six foot so hes not exactly small. everyones entitled to their own opinion but mine is that hes a good first division keeper who has seldom let us down.

[Cagey]

Have to agree. Cuthbert started off a bit nervy but more than made up for it with some great saves after the pen ,which wasn`t and would never have been if James had nodded an easy pass back to the goalie.

We did not lose that game yesterday because of Cuthbert but because Scotland didn`t take one of his 3 good chances or James headed over twice when in good position whilst Sheerin had a couple of good chances.

I do hope that Main does turn out to be better than Cuthbert but not too sure plus the amount of time he gives away possesion but kicking the ball out of the park.

[Al C]

The Anderson (fantastic performance from the 21 year old against talent like McGeady and deserves more credit than he will likely get for the sublime pass for Hardie to score.!

He will probably get no credit for the sublime pass as it was Sheerin who passed it to Hardie!!!

[Hazel1884]

He will probably get no credit for the sublime pass as it was Sheerin who passed it to Hardie!!!

Was it?! I thought looking at the higlights briefly at half time it was Ando! OOPS!

Funny that everyone has agreed with me when talking about the game that Ando's was a sublime pass! Haha!

[Cagey]

Who would disagree with you when you have had a drink Hazel ?.

[Hazel1884]

Who would disagree with you when you have had a drink Hazel ?.

Some of them were today though - and we were all sober (or sobering up to some extent!!!):oops:

[David]

As has happened too often, Anderson was played out of position - but he did pretty well despite a few nervy moments. He proved he's probably the best tackler in the team and if only he could pass the ball, he'd be a decent shout for the "Mensing" role in midfield.

As for Cuthbert, we didn't see anything new yesterday - he just looked plain nervous for the first 15 minutes or so. James sold him with that terrible back header which led to the penalty, but the keeper could have made a decision earlier (whether to force Jim Vinegar out wide or race out to boot the ball away) and that was just another part of the nervy opening spell he had.

Nothing wrong with being nervous - some of us are nervous every time we have a good fart - but that's one position of the team where we can't really afford it.

[Invernessaint]

Thoroughly enjoyed the day out - great to see the Saints fans in full voice. Great atmosphere outside the ground as well - a policewoman I was speaking to said we were the nicest set of fans she had ever met on duty. Great to hear these things. As for the match, well it was so different to earlier cup defeats to the OF - we were the team that dominated them. Am pleased that there were very few "plucky saints" stories around on TV and in the press. We got the credit we deserved. Not sure if I go 100% with the "we should have won argument". Actually feel a draw would have been fair - they did miss a few great chances themselves. The Cuthbert debate rages on - like others felt in the first 15 mins that he was our weakest link and was well worried we were going to get a tanking. Penalty definately soft but would have been raging if this had not been awarded to us - Kev made wrong decision unfortunately. Is it just me but the comments on here saying that Kev went on to make a few great saves so everything evens itself out dont wash with me. Yes he made a couple of good saves - but they were nothing out of the ordinary, would expect any first team keeper to have stopped those shots. As an all round goalie, I'm not sure.

[StDuncM]

Just back to post my thoughts.

Saints were brilliant and made, yes made, Celtic look distinctly gash. When we played Hibs at Tynecastle we ran about like headless chickens for 15 minutes before settling and proving we were more than a match for Hibs.

At Hampden yeaterday only Kev started like a headless chicken on a suicide mission and took some time to settle. No communication between him and his defence initially and you could see OC on the touchline imploring him to calm down. He eventually did thank god. We did very very well and most of the rest of Scotland including the media thought we were going to get slaughtered, except the cabbie who took us to Mount Florida that is! A personal friend of OC's (he would be, wouldn't he), who went to school and grew up with him in the Gorbals, thought Celtic were awful at the moment and we could get a result.

We did not get THE result we deserved but neither did Gretna and the day was not too bad in the end.

It was fun while it lasted and I was really proud to be a Saintee as was my other half. Now we are getting married in 2 weeks at 3pm on Saturday 28th at the same time as Saints are playing Hamilton and would it not be brilliant if we were 4-0 up by the time we were coming out of the Kirk, and Gretna were losing sowe could grace the big stage (SPL) again.

To cap it all our hotel was opposite THE polce station!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Hazel1884]

To cap it all our hotel was opposite THE polce station!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


Hotel Ibis or whatever it's called in the city centre?!

[StDuncM]

Hotel Ibis or whatever it's called in the city centre?!

You got it in one. Cheap and Cheerless but it served a purpose.

[Hazel1884]

You got it in one. Cheap and Cheerless but it served a purpose.

Certainly cheap, don't know about the cheerfulness! Premier Travel Inn's or Bewleys is where it's at for decent hotels at fairly cheap prices! :)

[StDuncM]

Slightly off topic I know but, when we went up to Ross County we stayed in a double room with breakfast at the Inn Keepers Lodge (Glovers Arms) in Perth for £29.00! A great deal and thanks to SaintKev for letting me know about it.

[Broon]

Just to make a point on the Cuthbert debate. He 'flapped' the ball twice in the first 15 minutes. The first one looked like he shouted and came to collect but McManus didn't move out the way. Now, if he did shout then its McManus' fault. We cant comment on that one becuase nobody could hear a thing. The second one was difficult, he had to climb over his own player and JVH and at the end of the day he made contact with the ball.

I also dont think Kevin James inability to head the ball forward in the 1st half was helping him either and certainly I blame James more for the goal than Cuthbert. Granted Cuthbert made it easy for JVH to dive around like a fairy but James missed a bread and butter header to set it up. Also, how many times has Cuthbert saved us in one-on-ones this season?

In the 2nd half his handling was outstanding - second to none. He claimed at least 4-5 crosses comfortably as well as making saves from Graveson, Hartley and someone else.

Overall I thought he done ok and certainly you cant blame him for the defeat. If you want to blame anything for the defeat its our inability to defend crosses/high balls into the box. Its been the same all season and really shows where we miss Ruti.

I don't think we should get hung up on the 'what if's' and blaming individual players. We should not forget what a fantastic display it actually was and how well we played. EVERYONE in Scottish Football has taken notice of St Johnstone this season. Now we need to concentrate on winning this fecking league and getting back to where we belong. GET YER ARSES TO CLYDE ON TUESDAY :) :)

[Saintkev]

Not read all this, but just to say, I'm still totally gutted at this... we never got what we deserved... and neither did Celtic!

The referee cost us dearly... not just the penalty, I can see why that was given, but the booking of McInnes compared to the non-booking of others in green and white...

McInnes was very good at closing down Hartley and Ginger Wa*k and that meant he couldn't tackle the same for the rest of the game... just incidents like that all game...

Good work to the fans though, we were tremendous, please try and get to Clyde and try and give the same level of backing, those that can... how did it come across on the telly?

[Nairn Saint]

Not read all this, but just to say, I'm still totally gutted at this... we never got what we deserved... and neither did Celtic!

The referee cost us dearly... not just the penalty, I can see why that was given, but the booking of McInnes compared to the non-booking of others in green and white...

McInnes was very good at closing down Hartley and Ginger Wa*k and that meant he couldn't tackle the same for the rest of the game... just incidents like that all game...

Good work to the fans though, we were tremendous, please try and get to Clyde and try and give the same level of backing, those that can... how did it come across on the telly?

It was truely amazing on the box. Hardly heared the Celtic "fans" sing but heared ours throughout the game. Gutted I couldn't be there.....

[Saintkev]

It was truely amazing on the box. Hardly heared the Celtic "fans" sing but heared ours throughout the game. Gutted I couldn't be there.....

Cheers Nairn... I sometime think we are great and then you can hardly hear it later... but I'm glad we outdid the greatest fans in the whole wide universe!!!

[dhs]

I have managed to find some torrents so have uploaded both torrents here to keep it simple - http://www.ss1design.com/saints.htm

Only problem is download speed it really poor as there is not many seeders. I would recommend just downloading the highlights just now as im not sure if the full game will download but i will leave it running to find out!!

[TheBigCheese]

My tuppence worth:

Great atmosphere from the build up right through to full time (especially the sing-a-long in the toilets at half-time!). For once I won't even criticise the Celtic fans who bothered to turn up, fair enough they didn't make much noise during or after the game (apart from the comedy booing of Lennon and Strachan) but outside they were generally pleasant enough (if you can handle the smell) which is more than you can ever say for fans of the other side of the gruesome twosome.

As for the game I thought we were pretty shaky at the start especially at the back. That wasn't helped by our complete inability to keep the ball. I've just watched the penalty decision again on YouTube and to call it soft would be an understatement, the ball was going away from goal and there was minimal (if any) contact. That said, it was a very poor header from James and Cuthbert was too slow to react and consequently a bit too quick in going down.

The positive thing about the losing the goal is that our heads didn't go down, we looked up for it. The goal was an excellent move and I can't help but fell if we'd grabbed another before half-time we might have gone on to win the game.

The second celtic goal was a bad one defensively and not the first time McManus had lost Jan Whatshisname of Wherever at a corner. Again we reacted well but I never felt like we troubled Boruc, to many balls to the edge of the area that were met with weak headers or scuffed shots from distance.

I'd take nothing away from the Saints though, we're currently struggling to win the worst First Division I can remember but we managed to make a team of internationals - who came close to the Champions league quarter finals very recently - look like the first division side for much of the game.

There's always next year.

'mon the Saints!

[Nairn Saint]

Had to laugh at the start of the TV coverage when they stated the Saints team had been assembled for £125,000 whereas Celtic's side cost £21,000,000.

What a lot of diddies for £21,000,000!

[Radford 72]

For once I won't even criticise the Celtic fans who bothered to turn up, fair enough they didn't make much noise during or after the game (apart from the comedy booing of Lennon and Strachan) but outside they were generally pleasant enough (if you can handle the smell) which is more than you can ever say for fans of the other side of the gruesome twosome.
I always think there's the danger of being accused of being biased when we say stuff like that but that is my feelings too. I've never thought there is the same level of intimidation or nasty atmosphere at a game against Celtic as when we play the other mob. The night we beat Celtic 1-0 at Parkhead, we had Celtic fans coming up to us on the way out saying well done and how we deserved it. That would never happen at Ibrox.

Had to laugh at the start of the TV coverage when they stated the Saints team had been assembled for £125,000 whereas Celtic's side cost £21,000,000.

What a lot of diddies for £21,000,000!
It was staggering but not quite true as we paid around £15,000 for Simon Mensing and a hefty fee for Willie McLaren. Peaso's transfer fee was the only one that was disclosed, hence the £125,000 figure. Still nothing like £21,000,000 though and how right you are, I'd be expecting a lot more from my side if we'd spent that amount of money.

Hartley looked no better a player than when he was with Saints and Kenny Millers sole contribution was two dives.

[Saintkev]

I saw plenty of mouthy ned Celtic fans after the games... have to say that I recognised half of them as being locals though... one in particular could easily end up with a smack aff the puss in Perth the way he was baiting the buses as they left...

After we beat Celtic 1-0 in Glasgow, I was told I was getting knifed if i didn't take the smile off my face!!

It's just Rangers are more open about being neanderthals, Celtic try and act like they are that much nicer but fail when it comes down to it!

Both as bad as each other!

[montrosesaintee]

Had to laugh at the start of the TV coverage when they stated the Saints team had been assembled for £125,000 whereas Celtic's side cost £21,000,000.

What a lot of diddies for £21,000,000!

I know, eh. Folk at work are telling me hard luck, but I feel sorry for the celtic scum who have to accept a team of utter mince. what a waste of 21 million. Give me Jason or Peaso up front in place of that idiot kenny miller anyday!!

[Saint Paul]

The better team lost on Saturday. Simple as that.

The penalty call was extremely dubious, and I text a Celtic-supporting mate who was watching the game on Sky to get a verdict from the TV replay, and even he admitted at the time that it wasn;t a pen, which made it even more difficult to take.

However, the way that the team fought back made me so proud. There was not an outfield player that didn't committ 100% to everything they did.

We had the SPL champions elect so worried that they took off their most creative player in Nakamura to bring on Gravesen to shore up the midfield. That's how worried Strachan was about us.

When walking back to my car, even Celtic fans were walking up to us and shaking our hands and admitting that they robbed us and that they hoped to see us next season in the SPL. Fair play to them I have to say. So much bad press gets written about them and I was worried about walking through them to get to my car, but I have to give credit where credit is due. 99% of them were honest enough to admit that they were bloody lucky.

[Hazel1884]

Whilst i'm chuffed we are getting plaudits it's not a consolation is it?

Reading the papers yesterday and today has actually got me down knowing how close we were and how it's a disgrace that we're not in the final.

Even Strachan felt compelled to give us some credit - but mind you, i'm sure with his mannerisms he probably said it in a sarcastic patronising manner that doesn't indeed mean anything.

[TheBigCheese]

Whilst i'm chuffed we are getting plaudits it's not a consolation is it?

I feel like I'm forever talking about us being unlucky and playing well and being proud of the team after a big game. It would be nice - just once - to walk away from one of these games saying "I'm utterly ashamed of that performance, we were garbage but at least we won!"

[Grovesred]

With a select audience of three (two people supporting Saints plus the steward) the York City Social Club wasn't exactly bouncing on Saturday afternoon, but I think the screams of anguish are still echoing round Kit Kat Crescent.

"Gutted" doesn't begin to cover it.

[Victor]

-Superb performance.

-It wasnt a penalty.

-If any Saints player should be critisiced for costing us goals its James, not Cuthbert.

-Does anyone know why McManus was marking VoH and not James?

-Will never forget Peaso leaving 2 of them for dead at the corner flag, Sheerins turn to wrong foot another 2 and the passing movement that led to Jason being blocked by Naylor as he was about to score. Class. Pure class.

[Radford 72]

£132,500 goes to Saints from SKY TV for the semi-final. Nice!