With just three games of the season to go, things could hardly be tighter at the bottom of the league. Saints currently lead the Pars by a point, but a few weeks ago the gap was far bigger. Indeed, even this time last week it was four points. Then came Monday's disaster against Dunfermline.
Steve Kenny's men are in great form at the moment and the Irishman rightly corrected the manager of the month award this week. THe fact is they'll win at least one of their remaining games, possibly more, meaning Saints cannot afford to rely on playing for draws.
A different attitude is needed for tomorrow's game and a return of the effort and committment shown at Falkirk the other week would be most welcome. It would also be nice if we actually went out to attack a wee bit, although there are unlikely to be any team changes. Midfielder Stephen O'Donnell - one of the few attacking options outwith the front two - is injured, as is Craig Molloy. Richard Brittain will play his last game of the season before starting a ban, hopefully meaning we'll get some decent corners soon. Billy Mehmet could start after scoring four against Hibs reserves and it would be nice for a natural left footer to play in midfield, although don't count on it.
Talking of left footed midfielders, ther eis some good news for Saints fans ahead of tomorrow's match as Barry Robson is expected to be missing. The former Inverness Caley Thistle man has been a constant thorn in Saints side this season, but is expected to be absent as he is close to a ban. United will be looking to end the season on a high with some good performances before pushing for the top half of the table next season.
So, Saints need to win but will they? No, they'll lose. Again.