TONY: ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE
The spirit of old ground lives on for Fitzpatrick
Tony Fitzpatrick insists the St Mirren support has brought the spirit of Love Street to Saints’ new ground.
The club’s chief executive reckons the club’s boisterous support will become the playing side’s 12th man as preparations ramp up for the final 12 games of the Championship season, as they look to see off the challenge of Dundee United at the top of the table.
Following a weekend off, St Mirren are back in training this morning ahead of Saturday’s trip away to Livingston.
A victory could see the Buddies move up to 17 points clear at the top of the league if results go their way.
And Fitzpatrick is adamant the fans will make all the difference after being blown away by the club’s new singing section.
He told Express Sport: “We are not in the final furlong just yet but we are definitely heading towards the home straight.
“The players, the management team, and the supporters have been absolutely brilliant, and now it is just about being patient. Teams are going to come to Paisley and sit in now and the players are going to have to dig deep at times.
“The supporters and the singing section have been magnificent and their support really harks back to the days of Love Street.
“As a player it really can make all the difference. The fans are now all singing regardless of what stand they are sitting in and it is like a wall of noise.
“It has taken its time, but the ground really is beginning to feel like home now.
“It has the spirit of Love Street about it. The grounds are completely different, but you really feel like you are home when you walk in.
“I remember shooting towards the St Mirren fans as a player and it made all the difference. The backing would helped you.
“It isn’t an easy place to come anymore. It has become intimidating for away teams and that is all down to the fans.”
The season is now heading fast towards the final quarter of games and although the Buddies find themselves 14 points clear, Fitzpatrick insists no one is getting carried away just yet.
He added: “There is 12 games to go – and now is the time just to remain focused.”