Dundee 0
St Johnstone 1
League (First Division)

Manager's Programme Notes

Even although we have had one or two draws against some of the so-called lesser lights in the league this season, last Saturday's defeat at the hands of Dunfermline, definitely ranks as the lowest ebb of the season so far.

Not even going two goals ahead could disguise how poorly we played and that applied to virtually all departments of the team.

About the only player who could hold his head up high after last week's game was George Shaw. If the whole side could display the same attitude as he does, I could have no complaints.

However, one defeat can't detract from the fact that we are still in a very strong challenging position at the top of the league, but getting back to winning ways at home is very much a priority for us.

To be honest our home form has been diabolical and must show a big improvement in the second half of the season.

whilst away from home we have performed superbly. To complete the first half of our league programme, we entertain St. Johnstone and go into this game with a few problems caused by a combination of injuries and suspensions. Five players on whom we would expect to call upon are unavailable. Paul Tosh, Jim Hamilton and Gary McKeown are all suspended whilst Roddy Manley and Neil McCann will be missing because of injury.

That means it will be something of a test for the rest and I hope will produce the right response with everyone pulling together to get us back on the winning trail.