Stubbs on a proving mission

If every league game was settled by a penalty shoot-out, St Mirren would be well set. Alan Stubbs’ side earned the bonus point in three of their four Betfred Cup games by dint of winning on penalties.

Sadly for them, they are not. The elation felt at winning the Championship under Jack Ross is in danger of ebbing away already. Replacing it is a feeling of uncertainty under Stubbs, who has yet to convince many

Dsupporters. Or at least some of his first signings have. Several are untried recruits from England.

Stubbs also has something to prove. Already a Scottish Cup winner with Hibs, Saturday’s game against Dundee will be his first as manager in the Scottish top flight.

It’s a case of glass half empty with some St Mirren fans. They point to Stubbs only actually having

espite a successful unbeaten cup campaign thus far, dismal draws against Lowland League and amateur opposition have caused many fans to cast early doubts over Alan Stubbs’ appointment. Pessimism was quelled slightly by a 6-0 victory over Dumbarton; however, after the club scored only twice in the other three games, a new striker is priority.

Stephen Mcginn scored the pick of the goals against The Sons. More won one competitive game – against Dumbarton, admittedly handsomely. But he has not lost one either. Lewis Morgan and Gavin Reilly, such crucial contributors last term, have gone. Much will depend on three remaining title heroes: skipper Stephen Mcginn, pictured, winger Cammy Smith and goalkeeper Craig Samson, who all have Premiership experience.

the tempo of play in the middle of the park makes him a vital cog in the St Mirren machine.

Alongside himwill be nine new additions — left-back and Middlesbrough loanee Hayden Coulson being the early stand-out due to his fearlessness when terrorising defences with his blistering pace.

Saints legend Tony Fitzpatrick has previously set out ambitions to win the league this season, but staying up is perhaps a more realistic aim.