Saints head back to Tynecastle

Jan 28 2011 by Gordon Bannerman, Perthshire Advertiser Friday

SAINTS return to the scene of a famous Scottish Cup victory tomorrow.

Just two weeks ago, the Perth side ousted Hearts from the competition in the capital and they’re back in Gorgie boosted by a four game unbeaten run, and just one loss in nine.

It’s form which has rekindled hopes of a top six finish and bottom club Hamilton are now 13 points behind.

They face a Hearts side coming off the back of a savage 4-0 defeat to Celtic, just days after raising hopes of a rare title challenge with a 1-0 win over champions Rangers on home soil.

McInnes admitted neutrals hoping for a championship challenge from Tynecastle had been left disappointed with Hearts defeat at Parkhead after an 11-game unbeaten SPL run.

But he is attempting to inflict further damage on the Edinburgh club.

McInnes said: “They have a strong squad and a fantastic manager in Jim Jefferies.

“They have been showing great consistency.

“But so have we in recent weeks.”

The Perth boss is set to make changes again, with left-back Danny Grainger starting a two game suspension.

Former Jambos defender Alan Maybury is the obvious candidate to fill his shoes.

McInnes added: “The Motherwell game was played at a high tempo and was physically demanding. I felt it was the right game to go with Stevie May and Collin Samuel.

“I thought the combination would cause Motherwell problems and their defenders had an uncomfortable night.

“But we look at each game separately.”

With central defender Michael Duberry again outstanding in posting another clean sheet against Motherwell, McInnes also pointed to the growing stature of Steven Anderson alongside the former Chelsea centre-back.

“Doobs put in another top class performance and Ando is doing very well.

“He is providing a physical presence and he also organising and maturing. There’s no doubt he is benefiting from playing alongside Michael Duberry.

“And there is no reason why Ando can’t keep improving.”

Looking back on the midweek win over Motherwell McInnes said: “I am delighted for the players. They gave me absolutely everything to get that result.

“I know there is room for improvement but you can see how driven they are and giving everything for the cause.”

Released midfielder Martin Hardie is training with First Division Dunfermline as he bids to secure a new club.

McInnes is still trying to strengthen his squad before the transfer window closes.

THERE will be a cash gate at Tynecastle tomorrow for Perth fans but tickets can also be purchased today until 5pm at McDiarmid.