McCann: Oldguard deserve acupfinal
Ali McCann is dreaming of a memorable debut appearance at Hampden.
And he would be especially delighted for some of the Perth club’s old guard if a place in the Betfred Cup final was secured.
McCann, who has never even been a spectator at the national stadium, said: “It would be especially great for guys like Muzz (Murray Davidson) and Liam (Craig) if we can get to the final.
“They have been great servants over the years and they deserve all the plaudits they have got for breaking records at the club.
“It would be massive for everyone but especially them after missing out on the 2014 win.”
McCann was a spectator on that fine day in May 2014 when the Saints went up to lift the Scottish Cup at Celtic Park.
He recalled: “That was the end of my first year here and we all got to go along to the game. It was brilliant.
“I know it is a different tournament but this is a
national cup semi-final. If we can get anything like that it would be fantastic.
“The photos from that final with United are all over the place here.
Whether Chris Kane or the Duracell Bunny has more energy is up for debate.
It would be an intriguing battle of endurance.
One thing is for sure – the St Johnstone striker has the power to help pull the Perth club away from the lower reaches of the Scottish Premiership. And he could well be a key focal point in this weekend’s cup semi-final.
The 26-year-old has received his fair share of negativity from internet snipers in recent years but, certainly in the past couple of games, he has been a man fully charged whose positive influence cannot be understated.
He was brilliant against St Mirren on Saturday afternoon.
At times watching his constant pressing and running in behind made this
“So it would be amazing if we could go on to win this cup. That would be special for the club.
“It would be brilliant to get a photo up there with the others.
“We have a semi-final to win first but even the thought of replicating the win of 2014 would be brilliant.
“This will be the first time I have ever played at Hampden. I’ve never even been there as a spectator.
“It will be a good experience for everyone I’m sure. We are all buzzing for it.”
A stern challenge will be presented by a Hibs side who have added further strength to their ranks in recent weeks.
And McCann said: “Every time we have played Hibs it has been close.
“We should probably have beaten them at Easter Road in the 2-2 game. And the game before that they won with a last-minute penalty.
“We have matched them this season and hopefully we can beat them this time and reach the final.”