Del and his Saints aim for sweet 16

Jan 23 2009 by Gordon Bannerman, Perthshire Advertiser Friday

TABLE-TOPPING Saints could go eight points ahead of Dunfermline and match Paul Sturrock’s 16-game undefeated league run posted en route to the 1997 title.

And manager Derek McInnes is pleading with Perth fans to pump up the volume and match their backing in a memorable 3-1 win at East End Park.

He said: “This is our biggest game of the season. That’s the way I see it and so do the players. Dunfermline are our nearest challengers and biggest threat right now.

“Our fans were magnificent at Dunfermline and played a genuine part in our win. It wasn’t just about the numbers. They really backed us. Something similar would go a long way to helping the team.

“You don’t think about records when you go on an unbeaten run but it would be nice to make it 16. It is recognition of the work put in by the players. We are all determined to keep it going as long as possible.”

McInnes is looking for the side’s defensive solidity to continue, allied to a bigger goal threat.

Top scorer Steven Milne looks set for a return after missing the last two games. He resumed training yesterday after treatment for a thigh strain. He was joined by midfielder Martin Hardie, who could feature on the bench.

While it is being billed as Paul Hanlon’s swansong, McInnes isn’t giving up on the Hibs loan player.

He explained: “As things stand it is his last game and I’m disappointed. But Mixu Paatelainen tells me he will look at again.”

McInnes confirmed he is looking to bring someone in but with Steven Anderson, Graham Gartland and Liam Craig providing left back cover, the manager won’t make a panic signing which clogs up the wage bill further down the line.

He said: “We are aware of the transfer window deadline but there is still the loan system we can use. We are always open to people coming in to make us better but overall I’m happy with the quality squad I have here.

“Graham Gartland is out but we are in good shape for the Dunfermline game.

“They are our nearest challengers but it’s a challenge we will relish and meet head on.”