THIS ONE’S A KEEPER!
Ross won’t forget six-goal thriller ‘dream’debut for Saints as proud family watched from stands
Ross Sinclair admitted it was a dream come true to make his debut for St Johnstone – and thanked his proud family for their support along the way.
The goalkeeper, who is from Scone and is a former Perth Academy student, was given the nod for Wednesday night’s Premiership match against Ross County in Dingwall.
He has been with his local club since the age of 12 and pulled off a number of smart stops in the actionpacked 3-3 draw.
“It was frustrating to not get the three points after being 2-0 up but from a personal point of view I’m delighted to have made my debut for this club,” Sinclair said.
“I suppose you could say that it was bittersweet in the end.
“You always want to get playing quicker but I was confident when my chance did come I would be ready and do a good job for the team. I think I did that.
“I believe I’m ready to play at this level and play for this club. It’s a dream come true.”
Sinclair had most of his family watching on live in the Highlands – although revealed his mum didn’t make the trip as she was too nervous!
“Some of the family were at the game,” he smiled.
“My dad, my big brother, my gran and grandpa all made it up. Mum was too nervous! She stayed home and I don’t think she watched it.
“They’re buzzing for me and I’m so grateful with all they’ve done to
help me get to this point. I’m a Perth boy and this means a lot.”
Messages of support had come from far and wide for Sinclair in the lead-up to his debut, including from former Saints star Zander Clark.
“He took me under his wing and we spoke before the game,” Sinclair said. “I knew I was playing and he’s obviously someone I trust.
“I got some words of wisdom about staying calm and just doing what’s got me to this point.”
And there were some words of thanks to loan goalkeeper Remi Matthews too.
Matthews has now departed for down south and that means Sinclair will start against Livingston on Sunday (3pm).
“I was gutted to see Remi go but it opened up an opportunity for me,” Sinclair said.
“I’ll now look towards Livi on Sunday and then next season.
“All my pals will be at the game
on Sunday so I’m really looking forward to my first home game. It will be special.
“This is absolutely an opportunity to stake a claim for next season.”
As the season nears an end, interim boss Steven Maclean is expected to be handed the role on a permanent basis.
Maclean’s record of two wins, two draws and a loss has helped keep Saints in the Premiership.
Young Perth goalkeeper Craig Hepburn has earned a new St Johnstone contract.
The former Perth High School pupil, who has enjoyed a successful loan to Luncarty, is signed up until the summer of 2024.
Liam Parker, Kodi Mckinstry and Taylor
Steven have also penned new deals until next summer.