The difference in mentality on show in Dundee on Saturday was something to behold.
From the first whistle until the last, Stephen Robinson’s side bore the unmistakable mark of a team who knew what was at stake. This should be no surprise for those who’ve watched the Buddies in the past three seasons. It was married with a clinical composure and creativity that made the performance all the more impressive.
The Saints cut their opponents open at will and took full advantage. Speaking afterwards, Robinson made clear that this was the St Mirren that his staff and players work towards being – quick, direct and urgent in their chance creation.
Rarely, in many years of watching St Mirren, have I seen us play through sides so simply with one-touch passing, or have so many deft touches around the opponent’s box compounded by clever movement.
It has grown beyond any accusation of coincidence that St Mirren have dominated the closing stages of games this season.
Particularly in this stretch of games in the run-in, we have pressed into the 90th minute as if it was the first. We rain crosses and cutbacks down on our opponents whether we are seeking a winner, equaliser or greater margin of victory.
This comes down to both mentality and fitness. The mentality has been covered above, but the superior fitness shown time and again deserves equal attention.
St Mirren stepped out on the park this weekend looking like a tightly-drilled elite military unit, fresh from boot camp. Jim Goodwin’s United looked like a school class running out the clock before the summer holidays.
Seven points in three games, coupled with none for United, means the margin between the sides is down to a mere two points. Aberdeen in fourth have also been hauled into the mix.
However, those two contrasting runs need to continue for two further fixtures and the Saints close with a visit to Celtic Park. I wouldn’t bet against us, but have less trust in our rivals’ continuing cooperation.
Make it into Europe or not, the Buddies have more than done their bit. Plaudits, evaluation and opinion should be based on that, not what happens at Tannadice or Pittodrie. In the most trying of seasons, in a variety of ways, St Mirren have delivered more than the sum of their parts.
Mark Jardine can be found on the Misery Hunters podcast., external
