Friday 10th February, 2017 at 9:00am
As Jags boss, Alan Archibald, prepares his side for a return to William Hill Scottish Cup action this Saturday it is clear that there is a determination around the squad to really make some waves in the competition this year. Archie certainly didn’t need to remind anyone about the poor recent record in knockout competitions when he spoke to ptfc.co.uk on Thursday afternoon.
“Our record in the cups is absolutely something we want to fix. The players, staff and fans at the club are all desperate for a cup run and it would certainly be absolutely massive for all concerned. These games come as a bit of respite from the pressures of the league and all the players always look forward to them.
“It is frustrating when people regularly bring up our record in the cups and, as I say, it is something we are desperate to put right. You see all the other clubs doing well in the cup competitions and it definitely makes you envious. I’ve been involved in a cup final before and it is a great day from start to finish. The focus of the whole nation is on you and it is absolutely fantastic to be involved with.”
There will be no mystery around Thistle’s Perth-based opponents this weekend, the Jags having played Saints just 10 days ago, but Archibald insists preparations will remain the same.
“We’ve done our analysis and we know what we did well and what we did badly the last time out. We have to take our chances because you saw at Firhill exactly how effective St Johnstone can be if they go a goal up. We know how tough a nut they are to crack but we have scored and come from behind against them before so we know we can do it again. First and foremost though we have to make sure that we hurt them when we are on top.
“We’ve travelled well this year and that can certainly give the boys a bit extra belief when we go away from home. Last time out at McDiarmid we scored a last minute winner so we have plenty of good memories up there.”
Unfortunately for Archibald his preparations have been hampered by a lengthy injury list which has grown in recent days.
“We’ve got a few doubts with four or five boys missing. Christie Elliott’s red card appeal was knocked back today as well so he’ll be out of contention. We’ve got a good group though and we still have a few options. We’ll give each of the injured players every chance and take it from there.”
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