#12 - 04/10/08 - Airdrie United (h)

[dan the saint]

I would start with the same team.

[O'Rourke]

yep, can't change a winning side with first clean sheet surely, unless out of necessity.

[Radford 72]

Vital game for various reasons. It'd be great to go into the international break with ten points taken from four games and it would set us up nicely for the Livingston game. Can't afford to give the leaders a second thought though as Airdrie have already held Queens and Dundee to goalless draws and won at Livingston. No doubt they'll come and sit deep, looking to hit on the break. Up to guys like Sheerin and Swankie to create chances and I would agree with the other guys and keep the same side but would go with the 4-4-2 we used in the second half. Holmes has a great claim to start but as harsh as it is, he's been most effective for us off the bench. Definitely keep Craig at left back ahead of Ando for this one too. There's a reserve game on Tuesday though, so several guys will have a chance to impress, something they didn't manage against Cowdenbeath.

Last three results will be for very little if we don't win next week and we can't show the same sort of attitude we had in August. Need to work hard and earn the right to play football.

3,300 Saints fans at the game yesterday, would be great if they all came along next week.

[MUZZ]

3,300 Saints fans at the game yesterday, would be great if they all came along next week.

no chance mate. too many 'non saints' fans come to our games v dundee. lad in front of me yesterday had a celtic top on.

[scotty gordon]

hope for a big crowd but i agree muzz and unfortunatly i canny make it as im working but keep a winning team PLEASE

[541ntees]

i felt we played better with holmes up front with Savo supporting but it would be harsh to change the starting line up for this game - you don't wanna change a winning team.

I presume Ando was injured the fact he never even made the bench?

[slf]

no chance mate. too many 'non saints' fans come to our games v dundee. lad in front of me yesterday had a celtic top on.

punch his puss

[MUZZ]

punch his puss

he was only about 9, would have battered me

[Noose76]

My pals are coming upto Dundee on Friday night for a messy one, so it's touch and go whether or not I'll be there.

I need to miss the Livi game, but at least I have the consolation of Millwall vs Leeds and a lively day out down in South London. :wink:

[soulfulsaint]

Can't afford to give the leaders a second thought though as Airdrie have already held Queens and Dundee to goalless draws and won at Livingston. No doubt they'll come and sit deep, looking to hit on the break.

Need to work hard and earn the right to play football.



Another big perfromance by Ruty as well thought he was really decisive against the Dee and want to see that regularly now.

[soulfulsaint]

Can't afford to give the leaders a second thought though as Airdrie have already held Queens and Dundee to goalless draws and won at Livingston. No doubt they'll come and sit deep, looking to hit on the break.

Last three results will be for very little if we don't win next week and we can't show the same sort of attitude we had in August. Need to work hard and earn the right to play football.



Another big performance by Ruty would help too. Thought he was really decisive against the Dee and want that to become the norm.

[ryangordon86]

Can't afford to give the leaders a second thought though as Airdrie have already held Queens and Dundee to goalless draws and won at Livingston. No doubt they'll come and sit deep, looking to hit on the break.

Need to work hard and earn the right to play football.



Another big perfromance by Ruty as well thought he was really decisive against the Dee and want to see that regularly now.

I agree with both points, I thought Ruti was fantastic against Dundee, he won every ball without fail even though he seemed to be carrying a bit of a knock towards the end.

I'd swap Samuel for Holmes and keep the rest of the side the same against Airdrie. I'm expecting a big performance from Stephen Robertson, he's been playing well for them aparently and a game against his former club will surely fire him up.

[garydavidson]

I'm expecting a big performance from Stephen Robertson, he's been playing well for them aparently and a game against his former club will surely fire him up.


I have heard that he has been playing amazingly well this season so we will need to create a lot of chances to get anything.

they have only let in 6 goals in 8 games but at the same time only scored 7 so I dont think anyone can expect a rampant victory over them.

[Macarius]

I've got a few cousins down in airdrie. Was hoping they'd make the trip down for the football this saturday but they've came down to see the folks today and arn't staying the full week, so looks like it won't happen.

None the less I still gave them a ribbing since Dun Utd (my second team) did them in a cup game last week.

As for team selection for this week. Barring injuries, I don't see the need to change the side. If those 11 are capable of convincingly beating Dundee 2-0 then we should get a similar or better result against Airdrie. Hope Savo manages to grab another because he was outstanding for me on Saturday against the Coags. Some of his touches were world class.

[blueheaven]

3,300 Saints fans at the game yesterday, would be great if they all came along next week.

Sadly I can guarantee there'll be at least one less Saints fan in attendance at Airdrie. Me poor old legs will probably still be recovering from their 20-hour Megabus marathon this time next week.

[ryangordon86]

Afraid I will also be posted missing, along with the 3 i brought with me to the derby due to work commitments

[Noose76]

Sadly I can guarantee there'll be at least one less Saints fan in attendance at Airdrie. Me poor old legs will probably still be recovering from their 20-hour Megabus marathon this time next week.

Book a train ticket online from Euston to Glasgow and you should get it for £35 return. I do it every other month using my young persons railcard and I get it for £24.40. It only takes 4 hours!

[The ghost of Jim Morton]

I,d stick with the same starting eleven if possible although Rusty might be a doubt as it says on the official site that he left the park on crutches after the Dees game( if he,s not fit then I'd put Ando in there if he's fit).Holmes defo plays better coming off the bench.Continuity is good for moral.

So it has to be.

Main

Irvine, Rusty,(Ando), Caff, Craig.

Millar, Hardie, Sheerin, Swanks.

Savo,Sammy.

Subs. McLean,Holmes,Mooner, Ando(Morgan),Jacko.

What's the score with Morris and Big Kev?? Are both still a few weeks away from fitness??

No place in the squad for Peaso ( again), McKoy and Morgan if Rustys fit.

[Sainteesean]

pretty much the exact same as ghosty. but ill write it up anyway
Main
Irvine rusty caff craig
millar Hardie sheerin swankie
savo sammy

mclean, holmes, jacko, ando + morris/moon

[blueheaven]

Book a train ticket online from Euston to Glasgow and you should get it for £35 return. I do it every other month using my young persons railcard and I get it for £24.40. It only takes 4 hours!

Sounds good, but what website are you using? Whenever I've checked into trains it's cost a lot more than that - but that's London to Perth rather than London to Glasgow.

[Jamie_Beatson]

Myself and Dev will be back after an enforced absence this week, so that will make up for BH plus one other!

[Dave H]

I hope Rusty shakes off his injury he picked up against the dee. He gingerly left the field of play on Saturday.....

[541ntees]

I hope Rusty shakes off his injury he picked up against the dee. He gingerly left the field of play on Saturday.....

me too especially with no one knowing what the situation is with Ando-is he injured or just left out of the squad on sat?

[Noose76]

Sounds good, but what website are you using? Whenever I've checked into trains it's cost a lot more than that - but that's London to Perth rather than London to Glasgow.

http://www.firstgroup.com/scotrail/

Use the search bar on the left and when it gives you the train times, select "2 singles could be cheaper". If you book 6 weeks in advance you should get your tickets £22.50 each from Euston to Glasgow, and then book your singles from Glasgow to Perth. It's A piece of piss, and is worth the 6 and tanner extra then sitting on a stinking megabus.

[Dennistoun Saint]

Looking forward to this one. My last before I move down to London and can only get up to the odd game. Taking the girlfriend along though so she will hopefully rebel against her Celtic-supporting family and cheer Saints on in my absence!
Suppose we have to go with the same team as against the Scum given the result but I'd be really tempted to bring in Moon/McKoy (although he may be a bad shout - haven't seen him yet) for Hardie. Hardie was one of my favourite players but he was completely anonymous on Saturday and looks a shadow of his former self sadly.

[Macarius]

Mckoy is quite poor and in all honestly I would perform better as a Defensive mid in a saints shirt than he does.

[Radford 72]

Mckoy is quite poor and in all honestly I would perform better as a Defensive mid in a saints shirt than he does.
In all honestly, you wouldn't.

[Macarius]

I'd certainly fall over less.

[sconesjfc]

McCoy is a bad, bad player

[Pants n Socks]

McCoy is a bad, bad player

I totally agree with that statement.

I think Radford's shagging him! :?

[Macarius]

Mckoy would beat me for physical presence and ability to stand about looking like my arms are not attached to my torso but i'm afraid i'm a more clinical tackler.

[Radford 72]

But i'm afraid i'm a more clinical tackler.
Yet more shite...

Away back to Tannadice.

[Steve Maskrey]

BH, National Express run the East Coast line and offer a 10% discount if you buy online. Not sure how prices compare to what has already been quote via Glasgow

[Macarius]

Yet more shite...

Away back to Tannadice.

Nah seriously, I average 1 and a third proper heavy challenges per game which is about 6 times more than the real McKoy.

I'm no even havin a dig at the lad. I'm sure he's got the potential ability. Just a shame its the ability to resemble one of those corkscrew/bottle opener things that look like little men with outstretched arms rather than a footballer.

Seriously though, unless McKoy is lacking match fitness (severely) I'm more than confident i'd put myself about more. And thats giving up 7 inches in height and probably 2 stone in weight. Its no like the standard of first division football is that much above my bi-weekly 6's. Hell, we do 2 hours with no breaks, McKoy canne last 2 minutes without his arse saying hello the grass.

[St Mikey]

Saints win, another clean sheet, good performance.

Mon the Blues :o

[angus-saint253]

as much as i am enjoying radfords witty replies:) i would have to agree with the majority, McCoy has never shown anything close to potential for me, however hardie isnt really covering himself in glory at the minute either :S

i think we will get another result this weekend , hopefully itll all come together again, only worry from my point of view as a fan is that it may be a bit of a come down after last weeks events .
either way, come on u saint !

[101 Saint]

Evening Telegraph (http://www.eveningtelegraph.co.uk/output/2008/10/01/story12040471t0.shtm)

Bad news at the back; only one fit centre back and we still don't have a natural left back:sad: Mooner was praised by Del after Saturday but his injury may scupper any thoughts Del had about starting him on Saturday.

So just to summarise, Del is centre half, Wizard is left back and McKoy is subbie goalie; the Coags think they have injury concerns:?

[Radford 72]

Evening Telegraph (http://www.eveningtelegraph.co.uk/output/2008/10/01/story12040471t0.shtm)

Bad news at the back; only one fit centre back and we still don't have a natural left back:sad: Mooner was praised by Del after Saturday but his injury may scupper any thoughts Del had about starting him on Saturday.

So just to summarise, Del is centre half, Wizard is left back and McKoy is subbie goalie; the Coags think they have injury concerns:?
I'd still be confident one of Rutkiewicz or Anderson will be fine for Saturday. I don't think McInnes will do anything on the left back front until the window now (and Kononen is set for talks with Grenland about his future - Clicky (http://translate.google.com/translate?hl=en&sl=no&u=http://www.varden.no/article/20080908/SPORT/897456442/1007/mrss&sa=X&oi=translate&resnum=2&ct=result&prev=/search%3Fq%3D%2522Tuomo%2BK%25C3%25B6n%25C3%25B6ne n%2522%26hl%3Den%26lr%3D%26cr%3DcountryNO%26safe%3 Doff%26rls%3Dcom.microsoft:*%26as_qdr%3Dm)) but it's not been as much as a problem in recent weeks, with both Ando and Craig doing well. Liam probably doesn't enjoy playing there but he was good on Saturday and I'd keep him there for the Airdrie match.

No sign of an injury when Mooner went off yesterday (i.e. not as a result of a bad challenge) so hopefully it won't be too serious. No doubt everyone's least favourite player will return to the bench in place of him at the weekend.

[101 Saint]

I'd still be confident one of Rutkiewicz or Anderson will be fine for Saturday. I don't think McInnes will do anything on the left back front until the window now (and Kononen is set for talks with Grenland about his future - Clicky (http://translate.google.com/translate?hl=en&sl=no&u=http://www.varden.no/article/20080908/SPORT/897456442/1007/mrss&sa=X&oi=translate&resnum=2&ct=result&prev=/search%3Fq%3D%2522Tuomo%2BK%25C3%25B6n%25C3%25B6ne n%2522%26hl%3Den%26lr%3D%26cr%3DcountryNO%26safe%3 Doff%26rls%3Dcom.microsoft:*%26as_qdr%3Dm)) but it's not been as much as a problem in recent weeks, with both Ando and Craig doing well. Liam probably doesn't enjoy playing there but he was good on Saturday and I'd keep him there for the Airdrie match.

No sign of an injury when Mooner went off yesterday (i.e. not as a result of a bad challenge) so hopefully it won't be too serious. No doubt everyone's least favourite player will return to the bench in place of him at the weekend.
Yeah, my point is that we are still in "crisis" at the back. Just because the Coagies plagues have stolen the headlines, doesn't mean we are inury/problem-free.

I agree that one of the centre backs will play, but won't be 100%. Whoever plays left-back won't be one! This will be a hard game. We need our supporters again. Del has publicly hyped this game and rightly so; if we lose, or drop points, the last three games will count for nought. Victory, on the other hand will bring a surge of form, pride and confidence into staff and support alike. Rally the troops, our twelfth man will be vital.

PS Told you that McKoy would divide the support:wink:

[Lost Son of Fairbairn]

Airdrie ...... eh Clydebank, they don't like to be reminded that they are actually Clydebank

[sign dave]

with few centre backs we'de better at a 3-5-2 surely? with the wingers coming back down the line to fill gap at left back/right back, and sheerin in middle defensive role to tackle and play great balls onto the wing

................main
irvine.....rusty/ando.......craig
.
millar......sheerin........swankie
.
.........hardie...samuel
.
.....milne.............holmes
.

[angus-saint253]

thats quite an interesting one , it would require swankie to put in a much bigger effort than i felt he did against dundee however.

[sign dave]

u could always swap left back spot for morgan and put craig in left midfeild then, and swankie dropped to bench

[Macarius]

Nay place for McKoy?

[Noose76]

oi oi oi oi, oi oi Nick McKoy!

[sign dave]

Nay place for McKoy?


not been too impressed with him, so if anything id drop holmes and replace with samuel and put mckoy in samuels spot behind attackers as he looks like he is a more attacking midfielder than a defensive but im sure somewhere it said he was defensive.

[sign dave]

no actualy, the original team i picked are the ones who will get 3 points for us with an impressive win,

benched is keeper, ando/rusty, moon, peaso, jackson

[Macarius]

not been too impressed with him, so if anything id drop holmes and replace with samuel and put mckoy in samuels spot behind attackers as he looks like he is a more attacking midfielder than a defensive but im sure somewhere it said he was defensive.

McKoy is meant to be a defensive midfielder?

Could have fooled me, I thought he was the black Duncan Ferguson.

[Radford 72]

oi oi oi oi, oi oi Nick McKoy!
That could be our third flag. A massive St George's Cross with your slogan above emblazoned across it.

We could force Macarius to sit near it.

[monkfish]

with few centre backs we'de better at a 3-5-2 surely? with the wingers coming back down the line to fill gap at left back/right back, and sheerin in middle defensive role to tackle and play great balls onto the wing

................main
irvine.....rusty/ando.......craig
.
millar......sheerin........swankie
.
.........hardie...samuel
.
.....milne.............holmes
.

Havin' a larf with Irvine as one of three centre backs dave, to borrow from Macarius, I can heed the baw better than him.

[Macarius]

Auld Aggy Moffat would be a better Makaleke/Dunga/Hamann than McKoy.

nb: not a jest, just a scalding remark on Mckoys performances in a saints shirt.

I'll admit Irvine is a better headerer, but then again, headings my weakest aspect. My games all about getting in the way, making tackles and using strength, y'know, things that McKoy should be capable of being a defensive mid.

[CynicalSaintee]

no actualy, the original team i picked are the ones who will get 3 points for us with an impressive win,

benched is keeper, ando/rusty, moon, peaso, jackson

Bench Rusty? He was ace against Dundee, last week, though?

My ideal front two would be Sherlock/Samuel. Sammy is always quick and nible, and gets all over the place, and Holmes just bullies people about, and his knockdowns would be ideal meat for Sammy, and his head could be as useful as Jan Vennethingmy's, by the end of the season.

[Macarius]

I really do admire Sammy and hope he does well as a Saintee but I really think we should be playing him on the wing with Holmer and Savo/Peaso up front. Sammy puts in a hell of an effort but he just doesn't seem target man material, with Holmer knocking it down to either him or Savo/Peaso though, well that looks like quite a solid attacking prospect.

[ryangordon86]

with few centre backs we'de better at a 3-5-2 surely? with the wingers coming back down the line to fill gap at left back/right back, and sheerin in middle defensive role to tackle and play great balls onto the wing

................main
irvine.....rusty/ando.......craig
.
millar......sheerin........swankie
.
.........hardie...samuel
.
.....milne.............holmes
.



Havin' a larf with Irvine as one of three centre backs dave, to borrow from Macarius, I can heed the baw better than him.

Its quite a horrific thought really, either dave wants to play 1 centre back or play both Craig AND Irvine in that role! Either way we'd lose 6-0!

[Ali91]

what has mckoy done to have everyone on his back? :s started two? games. Livi in the cup where he played well and Clyde where he certainly wasn't the worst player in our team. he is a defensive midfielder his job is to break up the play and give it to one of the more creative players which i think he has done well so far.

[SheerLambRule]

Auld Aggy Moffat would be a better Makaleke/Dunga/Hamann than McKoy.

nb: not a jest, just a scalding remark on Mckoys performances in a saints shirt.

I'll admit Irvine is a better headerer, but then again, headings my weakest aspect. My games all about getting in the way, making tackles and using strength, y'know, things that McKoy should be capable of being a defensive mid.

go and stop going on about yourself, no one gives a f*ck

[+Super Trooper+]

what has mckoy done to have everyone on his back? :s started two? games. Livi in the cup where he played well and Clyde where he certainly wasn't the worst player in our team. he is a defensive midfielder his job is to break up the play and give it to one of the more creative players which i think he has done well so far.

go and stop going on about yourself, no one gives a f*ck

These two posts sum up my feelings exactly.

[angus-saint253]

agreed

[Macarius]

Jesus christ. Calm down.

If you can't handle a bit of light hearted banter, you shouldn't be a saints fan.

[slf]

get it right ye clydebank in disguise

[sign dave]

what has mckoy done to have everyone on his back? :s started two? games. Livi in the cup where he played well and Clyde where he certainly wasn't the worst player in our team. he is a defensive midfielder his job is to break up the play and give it to one of the more creative players which i think he has done well so far.


for me its watching him in the reserves, hes not done anything impressive at all in the reserves and lost the ball a few times against cowdenbeath.

[Ali91]

Jesus christ. Calm down.

If you can't handle a bit of light hearted banter, you shouldn't be a saints fan.

I don't see how slagging a player off repeatably can be considered banter. if that's your idea of banter i'm glad i don't have to spend any time in your company.

Sign Dave you have obviously saw more of him than me so you are in a better position to judge but i feel a player should be judged mainly on how they perform for the first team and imo he had done fine.

[Macarius]

Thats ok, its understandable if you don't have a sense of humor, You are a saints fan after all.

[101 Saint]

Evening Telegraph (http://www.eveningtelegraph.co.uk/output/2008/10/03/story12051289t0.shtm) reports that our injured players (bar James and Jody) are "in the squad" although officially Ando was "in the squad" for the Scum game.

[soulfulsaint]

I don't see how slagging a player off repeatably can be considered banter. if that's your idea of banter i'm glad i don't have to spend any time in your company.

Sign Dave you have obviously saw more of him than me so you are in a better position to judge but i feel a player should be judged mainly on how they perform for the first team and imo he had done fine.

I Agree Ali. McKoy could walk into the current Dundee team on last week's showing so I'd like to see him accorded more respect for his first team performances. I've seen them all short and they are by no means a disaster. Haven't seen him in resrve action. Check out his cousin's website - great young modern soul singer.

http://www.soulwalking.co.uk/Noel%20McKoy.html

[R.B.B:- Adz]

Key thing tomorrow is that we pick up 3 points. The teams above us all play each other and going into a vital match next week i'd take a scraped 1-0 win as long as there is no injuries or red cards. Saturday his come round just a day too quickly for Big Kev and Ando but both should play however both can play centre half so if one or the other cant make it and we have options at left back so as long as it at least one of them makes it we'll be ok.
Looking forward to this one as i think we can build on last week and we're really due someone a good thumping. Airdire will come and sit in but once we find a way through we'll be ok.
Airdrie are without Lynch and as long as we keep tight to Di Giacomo they shouldnt pose too much of an attacking problem

[+Super Trooper+]

Thats ok, its understandable if you don't have a sense of humor, You are a saints fan after all.

That is an excellent comment, however if the original posts were your kind of banter then your banter is clinically shit. Away tae tannadice.

[slf]

oh here we go we playing them in a few hours.i like there fans as they can be what we were once like .as in they get right behind there team.cannae be easy though now they are really clydebank in disguise.

[slf]

mon saints against airdrie .that plastic traynor is a complete waster ars@@ole.
I wonder do airdrie fans like that tool?

[The ghost of Jim Morton]

Well here we are again.Match day and I'm very much looking forward to this afternoons game.Airdrie will pose a decent test of how far we have come and if we don't get the attitude and application right today we may well fail to take the full points..Coming into the international break , it's imperative we keep our excellent form going.Still not sure exactly what the situation is injury wise but we still have a good enough squad to field a winning team.I hope it's a great game.


COME ON YOU SAINTS

[scotty gordon]

come on saints another great performance today and 3 points is a must

[The ghost of Jim Morton]

Team . Main,Irvine,Rusty, Caff, Craig.
Millar,Swanks,McKoy,Sheerin.
Holmes,Savo.

Subs. Robertson,Moon,Jacko,Peaso,Morgan

Strange line-up

*According to Sky Sports.

[scotty gordon]

Strange But According Too Perthstjohnstone Website Sammy And Hardie Are Injured So Mckoy And Sherlock Starts

[ryangordon86]

Team . Main,
Irvine,Rusty, Caff, Craig.
Millar,Swanks,McKoy,Sheerin.
Holmes,Savo.

Subs. Robertson,Moon,Jacko,Peaso,Morgan

Strange line-up

*According to Sky Sports.

I think this might be a bit more accurate if that is indeed the line up, or even sheerin out left, swankie out right and millar and mckoy in the centre

Main,
Irvine,Rusty, Caff, Craig.
Millar,,McKoy,Sheerin.Swanks
Holmes,Savo.

[injured saint]

1-0 saints swankie

[Moray Blue]

Great start. C'mon

[scotty gordon]

1-0 saints swankie

[ryangordon86]

brilliant! Just the start we've been needing!

[ryangordon86]

queens beating livi too!

[scotty gordon]

come on saints lets get a barrow load and dont concede any

[ryangordon86]

queens 2-0 livi

dobsters on fire!

[Moray Blue]

HT 1-0. So far so good.

[injured saint]

1-0 ht

[scotty gordon]

half time 1-0

[Johnstoun]

Weatherston scores for Queens, was very disappointed we let him go.

[injured saint]

saints sub moon on mckoy off

[ryangordon86]

*** where do you hear this from?

[Moray Blue]

1-1 now :(

[injured saint]

1-1

[scotty gordon]

shite 1-1

[injured saint]

*** where do you hear this from?

who was that for

[ryangordon86]

who was that for

yourself! I was just wondering how you were getting updates on subs and things?

[injured saint]

2-1 savo

[Moray Blue]

yessss - Savo. 2-1

[injured saint]

my brother is at the game he sent a text to me

[scotty gordon]

2-1 savo

[ryangordon86]

my brother is at the game he sent a text to me

ah that makes sense!

[injured saint]

ah that makes sense!he always sends a text cos i cant get home for the games anymore now am in germany

[ryangordon86]

4-1 Queens, Davie W

[ryangordon86]

all of queens goals have been scored by ex saintees!

[scotty gordon]

Cum On Saints Please Hold On

[injured saint]

saints sub morgan on swankie off

[Moray Blue]

Surprise Surprise. Another QOS goal, and another ex Saint scores!

[injured saint]

saints sub peaso on homer off

[scotty gordon]

Queens 6 -1

[injured saint]

3-1 savo

[scotty gordon]

Savo Seals It

[Moray Blue]

yessss - Savo again. 3-1. Hopefully game over now.

[Euanwilkie]

yes

[injured saint]

3-1 ft

[Moray Blue]

Not been a bad afternoon with the other results. Only 4 points off the top now. Maybe we wrote the season off too early?

[ryangordon86]

yaaaas nice!

[Coltrane]

Great result. Things are looking good today!!

[scotty gordon]

Well Done Saints Lets Get Behind The Team And Maybe Just Maybe We Can Win This League Afterall

[The ghost of Jim Morton]

A good 3 points won. A hard fought battle which was only sealed in the dying minutes.A great start and a great goal from Swankie. Airdrie keeper Robertson could only stand and admire it as it floated over his head and into the net.In a tight first 45 chances were few and far between with Main having to tip one over the bar and Saints looking fairly comfortable at the back but a bit off the pace up front. McKoy recieved a shock recall in place of Hardie ( I assume he was out injured as he was not on the bench)and Holmes was in for Samuels ( ??)1-0 Saints H-T.

A much brighter Saints in the Second half with the impressive Moon replacing the lacluster McKoy.Having said that, Airdrie who I thought didn,t look like scoring all afternoon shocked Saints with an equaliser from a cross after a corner had not been cleared properly in only the 3rd minute of the second period. A bullet header from Nixon left Main with no chance. Saints then upped their game and started to create some good chances with Mooner stiking the foot of the post with a great strike. It was no surprise when we again took the lead with a nice goal from Savo who was left all alone in front of the Airdrie keepr with the diamonds defence all claiming off-side.The only surprise after that was that it took until the 90th minute to put the game away.Another good goal from Savo after some nice play down the right and a good low cross to the back post by Millar who was again outstanding all afternoon. All in all a great 3 points against an Airdrie side who passed the ball well and closed us down quickly at every opportunitty but who never looked like they were going to win the match.Well played Saints...:-)

*on a negative note, the crowd was shit. 2200 ish. Get your arses off your seats and get yerselves up to the park Saintees fans.(3300 Saints fans last week only 2000 this week):x

[templeofsaints]

Good performance, and a deserved result for Saints. And it's more gratifying that it could have been more as well if Mooner's shot had gone in instead of hitting the post and Savo's goal stood.

[MUZZ]

'you fat bastard'

[Derek Patterson]

'you fat bastard'

Aye Robertson was an Ian Chubb like. Cheatin walloper.

[O'Rourke]

Aye Robertson was an Ian Chubb like. Cheatin walloper.

Has he put on the old foxes and hounds? :laugh:

[Broon]

Good win today. Savo played well and took his two goals well. The defence also looked quite solid for a second week in a row, special mentions for caff and craig. The only really poor performance was Nick McKoy, who looks less like a footballer every time I see him. I actually think he is terrified of the ball, which is insane considering he is about 6' 3". Mooner showed him how its done though, putting in an excellent 45 minutes.

Good 3 points, and it seems we are back in the hunt.

[dunblanemike]

he always sends a text cos i cant get home for the games anymore now am in germany
Tis a small world - I had a German guy sat next to me at the game today - from Dusseldorf he was, which for the uninitiated is the airport nearest the HQ of the Brit Forces at Rheindallen. Had a nice wee discussion on the merits of Bolten beer!!

[+Super Trooper+]

Mooner showed him how its done though, putting in an excellent 45 minutes.



Totally agree, thought mooner was excellent when he came on. Pleased savo got his goals although I feel the linesman robed him of his hatrick.

[dunblanemike]

spot the mistake(s) again by our friends at the beeb
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_div_1/7649175.stm

[101 Saint]

Curious game today. Some of our play was the best I've seen under Del; slick passing, lovely touch and great movement. Some of our play/tactics reminded me why I don't trust Del/Doc. Every single corner that Airdrie had today, we put EVERY player in the box to defend. Hopeless. It must have been an instruction because neither Del nor Doc called for any change. We also seemed to swap from a standard 4-4-2 to a 4-3-3 for a ten minute spell in the first half with Homer going wide right and Savo through the middle!?

Nick McKoy is not as bad as many on here believe, he does have skilll. He did disguise all of his talent today, but Peanut and Crispy were never gonna work in centre mid because McKoy doesn't work hard enough to let Peanut be the defensive midfielder; the role in which he excelled last week.

Against the players, too many times we looked lethargic on the break; with Homer and Savo bursting a gut to go forward whilst our two banks of four, meandered forward.

Rusty, Savo, Swankie, Midge and Mooner really cheered me up today. Brilliant performances and effort from them. If we play to our strengths, short, quick accurate passing we can win the league. Again, I repeat; with Mooner and Peanut in centre mid, we simply don't need Jody.

It's a good time to be a Saintee.

ps Can someone tell Rusty that he disnae get a prize for longest aimless punt of the game:?

[mainstand]

Curious game today. Some of our play was the best I've seen under Del; slick passing, lovely touch and great movement. Some of our play/tactics reminded me why I don't trust Del/Doc. Every single corner that Airdrie had today, we put EVERY player in the box to defend. Hopeless. It must have been an instruction because neither Del nor Doc called for any change. We also seemed to swap from a standard 4-4-2 to a 4-3-3 for a ten minute spell in the first half with Homer going wide right and Savo through the middle!?



I am not a great fan of bringing eryone back at corners but Del and Doc have obviously looked at the problems we had early season with defending and felt that getting everyone back and defending the set piece is the main thing that we need to do. No problems with taht as the results since we started it speak for themselves.

Never saw any change to a 4-3-3 in teh first half but a 4-4-2 should be versatile enough to change to a 4-3-3 or a 3-4-3 even as the play progresses.

As for Rusti he also put in some good passes as well so credit where credits due!!

[ancientsaint]

ps Can someone tell Rusty that he disnae get a prize for longest aimless punt of the game:?



I would rather he punted it 50 plus yards towards the oppositions half than have him dilly dally about looking for a short pass....

Strange to see every Saints player in the box defending a corner - too many bodies and ultimately cost the goal against + there is no quick ball up the park so hopefully Del will learn not too have 11 saints players in the defensive area.

Thought Savo's sense of humour was spot on when -in an offside position-he still nodded it in and looked towards the assistant to "ask" why .

[101 Saint]

As for Rusti he also put in some good passes as well so credit where credits due!!

I would rather he punted it 50 plus yards towards the oppositions half than have him dilly dally about looking for a short pass....

Aye, there's times when a punt is required but he did it constantly today. ALL our good moves today - and there were many - came from quick, short and accurate passes. No point in playing Peanut, Mooner and Midge and bypassing them, surely?

[101 Saint]

I am not a great fan of bringing eryone back at corners but Del and Doc have obviously looked at the problems we had early season with defending and felt that getting everyone back and defending the set piece is the main thing that we need to do. No problems with taht as the results since we started it speak for themselves.

We didn't put everyone in the box when defending corners agaisnt the Dee and we kept a clean sheet. Today, against arguably weaker opposition, we pack the box and lose a goal from a set piece. Too many bodies, and not enough targets. We found ourselves struggling to clear/break from Airdrie corners.

[bleacher]

Tactically hooking McKoy at half time was a brave decision - and the correct one, but everybody back for corners is a disaster.

What happens if the corner is cleared? There are no Saints up the field so the ball HAS to come back in again. It invites pressure and cost us the goal today. I know our defence is shaky but they are not that bad.

By contrast Airdrie left two up and a couple of times were able to break quickly because of it.

[Deek]

Saints were keeping 2 on the half way line at corners during the early part of the season. You really can't blame Del for trying everything to stop us leaking goals.

As we get better i'm sure he'll change it.

And yes, the defence were that bad that he had to do something.

[andrew]

Just observations and opinions, so don't shoot me, please!
I thought that today Airdrie looked among the worst teams I've ever seen come to McDiarmid in this division over the years. They constantly failed to keep the ball and misplaced pass after pass. I know it was wet. We seemed to try to make Airdrie look good for long spells in the 2nd half. Early on I thought we might do to them what QoS eventually did to Livi. If we had won 2-1 and were satisfied with that then I'd have been unhappy. I know we had a goal chalked off, Mooner hit the post, etc, so it could have been more. Pleased we won, and all things considered we're not too far off the top. A good 2nd quarter would put us right up there. Still think we're a bit lightweight but we're getting better. McKoy anonymous today, Mooner did more in his first 5 minutes, so I can see why many like him. At corners, with everyone back, in theory we've more bodies to defend with, but they've then got more attackers - madness!

[Cagey]

Thought Airdrie were there for the taking in the first half & we should have tanked them but as usual we didn`t ram home our advantage. We let them back into it second half but deserved to win in the end.

Like some on here can`t understand the tactics at corners. bringing everyone back into the box only allows the other team to put more men in there & the more conjested the box , more chance they can get to the ball.

Not sure why Del played McKoy. Was it because he thought he had to replace Hardie with someone similar in build.I am afraid i think we have seen enough of McKoy to see that he doesen`t have it.Irvine still worries me but think Craig is getting better in the left back role week after week.
Good to see Mooner having a good second half. he looks to have bulked up a bit & if he can keep fit i think he should be one of the first picks in team.

Looks like we have more of a settled side & system now with Ruti & Caff settling in together.

Main had a good game as well by the way. Long may it last.

[SaintSam1884]

Another observation. Why moan at Holmes to "run faster"? For the culprits - don't you think he would, if he actually could? He doesn't choose to move slower than a dinosaur.

[Watty]

Another observation. Why moan at Holmes to "run faster"? For the culprits - don't you think he would, if he actually could? He doesn't choose to move slower than a dinosaur.

Some pretty nippy dinosaurs existed, could you be more specific please?? He is slow like but i like him, wins a whore of amount in the air, honest pro.

[Steve Maskrey]

I think Holmes is a great striker. Wins a lot in the air, can hold the ball up well and looks like setting up a great partnership with Savo. He is a target man, no-one should expect him to sprint across the pitch....that's Savo's job

[soulfulsaint]

I think Holmes is a great striker. Wins a lot in the air, can hold the ball up well and looks like setting up a great partnership with Savo. He is a target man, no-one should expect him to sprint across the pitch....that's Savo's job

Its great that the last dozen psots have been about minor squabbles - how to defend corners, the role of the target man. A month ago we were in freefall and almost everything was wrong. Great to be back to minor spats long may it continue. C'mon Saints a good second quarter and merry xmas.

[Broggy Man]

Its great that the last dozen psots have been about minor squabbles - how to defend corners, the role of the target man. A month ago we were in freefall and almost everything was wrong. Great to be back to minor spats long may it continue. C'mon Saints a good second quarter and merry xmas.
Spot on Soulful. We played some pretty neat football today which lacked a little end product at times. That being said I honestly think things are looking up at least the back four are keeping the ball more often than punting it. the midfield are moving and the front two actually look like scoring. Long may it continue

[biffer]

Another observation. Why moan at Holmes to "run faster"? For the culprits - don't you think he would, if he actually could? He doesn't choose to move slower than a dinosaur.

He's probably faster than Roddy and we all loved him

[Cagey]

Strange run for a tall guy. Seems to take very short steps & looks like he could walk faster.

[Shibbydoo]

spot the mistake(s) again by our friends at the beeb
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_div_1/7649175.stm

Does Holmes pay the BBC for a mention?

A disallowed goal last week and a shot off the post this week??

Swankie at the near post yeah??

Why do they even bother?

[ryangordon86]

I think Holmes is a great striker. Wins a lot in the air, can hold the ball up well and looks like setting up a great partnership with Savo. He is a target man, no-one should expect him to sprint across the pitch....that's Savo's job

I don't know if you made the cup game at Stenhousemuir but we were really toiling until we got Holmes and Savo up front together.

The pair of them ripped Stenny to shreds, they were devastating and i'd like to see them get a good chance at forming a partnership.

I think with Holmes' strength and ability in the air combined with savo's pace and work rate they could potentially be the best strikeforce in the division

[monkfish]

I don't know if you made the cup game at Stenhousemuir but we were really toiling until we got Holmes and Savo up front together.

The pair of them ripped Stenny to shreds, they were devastating and i'd like to see them get a good chance at forming a partnership.

I think with Holmes' strength and ability in the air combined with savo's pace and work rate they could potentially be the best strikeforce in the division

Agreed. I think Holmes is a great target man, he's no Dr Goals, but for what he does he's very good at it. We should have walloped Airdrie today, they're the worst team in the first I've seen this season, couldn't string two passes together. I think the only area that really needs work (at the moment) is the midfield, hopefully if Jody comes in that'll be sorted.

[andrew]

monkfish, see my earlier post, airdrie were one of the worst yesterday that i've ever seen at mcd. and i like big johhnie - he does what he's there to do, and does it well. savo is now playing the way we'd all like him to and probably like he'd like to as well.

[CynicalSaintee]

monkfish, see my earlier post, airdrie were one of the worst yesterday that i've ever seen at mcd. and i like big johhnie - he does what he's there to do, and does it well. savo is now playing the way we'd all like him to and probably like he'd like to as well.

Agreed. The only reason we weren't trailing by 2 or three, due to our abysmal performance late in the second half, was because Airdrie were even worse than we were.

Sherlock, Savo and Samuel up front...Swankie, Morris and Craig in the middle... Rusty, James, Morgan and Caff in the back...

:twisted:

I wasn't sure about Morgan, but from what I heard in the match report, he had a direct influence in creating one of Savo's goals, and was a real hassle for the Airdrie defense. He sounds promising.

[sjm89]

Agreed. The only reason we weren't trailing by 2 or three, due to our abysmal performance late in the second half, was because Airdrie were even worse than we were.

Sherlock, Savo and Samuel up front...Swankie, Morris and Craig in the middle... Rusty, James, Morgan and Caff in the back...

:twisted:

I wasn't sure about Morgan, but from what I heard in the match report, he had a direct influence in creating one of Savo's goals, and was a real hassle for the Airdrie defense. He sounds promising.



Morgan played at left mid though and i thought showed a lot of promise useful player to have on that performance.

[101 Saint]

I think the only area that really needs work (at the moment) is the midfield, hopefully if Jody comes in that'll be sorted.

Bearing in mind how good Mooner and Peanut look, who gets dropped for Morris to come back and what are we missing in his absence?

[monkfish]

Bearing in mind how good Mooner and Peanut look, who gets dropped for Morris to come back and what are we missing in his absence?

I don't think you can say whether or not they'll work together when they've only played about 30 mins together this season. From saturdays starting line up I'd drop McKoy.

[I Am Me]

Bearing in mind how good Mooner and Peanut look, who gets dropped for Morris to come back and what are we missing in his absence?

There's gonna be compitition for a place on the bench far less the starting line-up, that's for sure. But at least we do have the numbers to battle for places. Look at dundee, they were struggling to get 16 player at all yesturday.

[Saint Chaz]

A good hard earned 3 points yesterday, I guess that's the main objective.

Am I the only one that thought Airdrie looked a decent outfit? They might not have much cutting edge going forward but they play well as a unit and work very hard closing the other team down. Saints players had to work very hard yesterday to get any sort of time on the ball. They've already shut out Dundee and Dunfermline this season and we're the first team to score 3 against them let alone any more.

Defence is getting better every game I think, Craig has the potential to become an excellent left back.

Millar as usual had a good game and some excellent runs, Mooner done well when he came on. Thought Savo was sheer class throughout yesterday.

Roll on Livi!

[I Am Me]

Yeah i think Airdrie will probibly stay up this season. I don't think that a hard fought 3 points from them is all that bad.

[101 Saint]

I don't think you can say whether or not they'll work together when they've only played about 30 mins together this season. From saturdays starting line up I'd drop McKoy.

But you seem to be saying that they don't work as well as J.Morris and A.N Other would!

I would also drop McKoy, but then I was slated for stating that we should never have signed him :wink:

[Noose76]

I was getting a pie when the first goal went in and had to leave 15 minutes early as my missus was giving me grief because her feet were wet! Generally crap day and ****ing cold to go along with it.

[thewhorule2002]

I was getting a pie when the first goal went in and had to leave 15 minutes early as my missus was giving me grief because her feet were wet! Generally crap day and ****ing cold to go along with it.

2-1 saints and you left because her feet we wet? I take it she wont be coming again... :-)

[Noose76]

She's barred

[monkfish]

But you seem to be saying that they don't work as well as J.Morris and A.N Other would!

I would also drop McKoy, but then I was slated for stating that we should never have signed him :wink:

Alright you've got me there :D I suppose we'll just have to wait and see.

[SJFC1988,]

livi (a) WIN

partick (H) WIN

pars (a) DRAW

[MUZZ]

She's barred

is she still no happy?