Davidson points to quality of Middleton
It was a brief appearance from the bench but Glenn Middleton showed early signs of promise in a Perth jersey.
And manager Callum Davidson hopes the winger, on loan from Rangers, can display his full quality as the season progresses.
Middleton was introduced late on in Wednesday’s 0-0 draw with Aberdeen and Davidson said: “It was great to get him on the park and give him game time. He’s not played proper competitive football for a while.
“We could all see he has a bit of quality. I think he expected to score at the end there. Hopefully that’s the kind of quality he brings to our team.”
The Perth battle with the Dons was described as “not a classic by any means” by the Saints boss in the immediate aftermath of the game.
“Neither goalkeeper was really tested,” he said. “Both teams fought hard but the two systems cancelled each other out.
“We could have done a lot better first half. I wasn’t particularly pleased with the way we played and how we pressed. But I got a reaction in the second half.”
Davidson did not feel there was any comedown from the cup semi-final win against Hibs at the weekend.
“I don’t think so,” he said. “I think it was just a hard game. Aberdeen are a good team and they play a certain style.
“But I thought defensively we were really good. Our defenders defended their box really well and we got the clean sheet.
“So I was pleased with that aspect. Aberdeen are a threat from set pieces but we defended well.
“It was a good point. I don’t think we played as well as we could against a tough team. But overall I don’t think either team did enough to win.”
An important league trip to Kilmarnock is next.
Davidson said: “It’s important we go there with a great attitude. The boys are confident just now and they know they can do better than they did on Wednesday.
“But their confidence is high. If you don’t taste defeat for a while that helps and we have to make sure that continues.”