First degree Burnley-ed

Jul 25 2008 by Gordon Bannerman, Perthshire Advertiser Friday

First degree Burnley-ed

DEREK McInnes skippered St Johnstone to their first national cup success before stepping up into the management role.

And the defence of the Challenge Cup has thrown up a tricky away trip to Dingwall tomorrow, where Saints won en route to last term’s memorable final win over Dunfermline.

With Ross County promoted to the First Division, the Staggies will be eager to lay down a marker for the league campaign.

Saints won’t have injured trio Jody Morris, Kevin James or Kevin Moon but Collin Samuel and Steven Anderson could make the squad after missing the 3-1 defeat from Burnley.

Euan McLean makes his debut in goal, with Alan Main still a week away from fitness.

The search continues for a left-back to fill the boots of Goran Stanic. An unnamed young trialist released by a Premiership outfit played against Burnley. But PA Sport understands McInnes also has other irons in the fire.

The manager certainly hasn’t been idle but a makeshift full-back will face County. Anderson could slot-in if he passes a fitness test today but McInnes insists he has options.

McInnes declared: “The Challenge Cup was the club’s first national trophy and we want to mount a successful defence and do the competition justice. We enjoyed the tournament last season and winning it was something to be proud of.

“The draw could have been kinder to us. It is a tough tie because County are stronger this season. But we should take confidence from the performance against Burnley and we travel in a positive frame of mind.”

Saints lost 3-1 on Owen Coyle’s return, with an impressive Paul Sheerin on target, and while defensive lapses proved costly, it was an entertaining affair with a string of sparkling individual displays delighting home fans. New recruits Gavin Swankie and Chris Millar were outstanding.

“We have to show the same appetite, enthusiasm and desire against Ross County,” stressed McInnes.

Swankie, playing on the right, wasted no time trying to win over fans after making the close season switch from Dundee. One audacious 35-yard lob almost brought the house down.

“Obviously I’ve come in from Dundee and that’s the first game I’ve played in front of the Saints fans. Hopefully they saw I’m totally committed to St Johnstone.

“We created a lot of chances against a Championship side and we were looking sharp all over the park.

“Before I even signed the gaffer indicated he wanted me to play on both flanks. That’s not a problem. I’m right-footed and actually started out as a right winger.

“That’s the friendlies out of the way and now it’s for real on Saturday at Ross County. The main aim has to be the league and I’m aware Saints haven’t got off to the best of starts in the past. We want that to change.”

OWEN Coyle believes Perth fans can play a role in cheering on Saints to the championship.

He was impressed with the vocal support and said: “They gave Derek McInnes and the players great backing and they were like that, especially away from home. I think they could help Saints have a terrific season.”