SAINTS FIND NEW SPEEDSTER IN THOMSON

PREMIERSHIP defenders who already quake at the thought of Michael O’Halloran’s frightening pace might now have a new reason to dread games against St Johnstone. In 20-year-old prospect Craig Thomson, the Perth club have developed a genuine challenger in the speed stakes at McDiarmid Park. Aberdeen would do well to beware if Thomson is let off the leash tomorrow. In midweek, Motherwell’s Steven Hammell doubtless breathed a sigh of relief when illness forced O’Halloran’s substitution during the first half of their 2-0 win. Yet the experienced left-back found himself up against it when replacement Thomson — yet to start a game for Saints — flew past him. A thrilling 40-yard run ended with a fine cross for Chris Kane, but the striker hesitated and the chance was lost. ‘I’ve played alongside Craig for a few years at Under-20 level and so on,’ said Kane. ‘I always look to get the ball to him because he will beat his man nearly every time. ‘Against Motherwell, he had one great run and created the chance for me. ‘Is he the fastest player at the club? He’d give Mikey (O’Halloran) a good race, that’s for sure. I would like to see them in a sprint. ‘Who would my money be on? It would be a close one. Maybe Mikey — just! ‘If Craig starts playing more, he will benefit from the experience because he has a lot going for him.’ O’Halloran provides the ideal role model. Whether operating out wide or up front, the 24-year-old has been impressive and his form has generated talk of a Scotland call-up. Kane hopes he will be fit to face the Dons, adding: ‘Mikey has been great. Not many defenders in the league can cope with him. ‘That was shown last season when he scored a lot of goals. He has kept it going with goals and assists this season.’ Aberdeen will arrive at McDiarmid Park hoping to exorcise a horrific memory. The low point of their October slump saw Saints inflict a 5-1 defeat on them at Pittodrie. ‘That was a great result for us,’ said Kane. ‘But I’m sure Aberdeen will be dangerous because that loss will have hurt them. ‘They have been on a good run again and will want to get their own back on us.’