DAVIDSON INSISTS SURVIVAL TOPS CUP DOUBLE

emphatic style. Hailing the character of his under-pressure side, Davidson also thanked the Saints supporters for backing the team after the holders’ shock Scottish Cup exit to League Two Kelty Hearts in January. He said: ‘People have asked me about winning the two cups and staying in the league. For me, this is a bigger achievement. ‘I know that might sound strange. But mentally, to play under pressure like this every single week after being bottom from January by quite a bit was incredibly tough. We all know how tough a season it’s been and where we were and I’m so proud of the boys. ‘I also want to say a big thanks to our supporters. After that Kelty game, they stood by us and they backed us in big numbers tonight. ‘We weren’t very good in the first half tonight. We were bit nervous and ponderous but we got the breakthrough goal through Stevie May. ‘It was great for Stevie to get that first goal. Stevie gives everything for the team and that’s the type of spirit we needed tonight.’ Davidson is now planning for a summer rebuild as he bids to ensure no repeat of this tough campaign. Players expected to leave over the summer include long-serving goalkeeper Zander Clark, who is out of contract and has been linked with Dundee United and clubs down in England. ‘It’s important we get a good strong squad together for next season,’ said the Saints boss. ‘We might lose a few players — Zander is a definite one — but we need to replace them with quality. ‘None of us want to go through something like this again. We need to make sure we get our recruitment right. ‘But what I would like to say is none of the players going to be out of contract have downed tools. They have worked their socks off and fought for the cause. I can’t thank them enough for that.’ Inverness boss Billy Dodds admitted it was bittersweet after his side fell short in their sixth and final play-off game in 20 days. ‘I’m proud and disappointed,’ he said. ‘I’m proud of the players for the season and disappointed in the way it turned out. ‘We played really well in the first half. I thought we had St Johnstone but it was a step too far for us — but not through fitness. I think 4-0 was harsh on my boys. But we gain experience from it and we get ready for next season.’