The Courier & Advertiser (Perth and Perthshire Edition)
Saints boss switches focus to cup decider
St Johnstone manager Callum Dav i d s o n says he is pleased their Betfred Cup fate remains in their own hands after missing out on a bonus point against Dundee United last night.
The sides played out a stalemate and share of the spoils over 90 minutes in a tight Group C clash at McDiarmid Park.
However, goalie Deniz
Mehmet was the hero for the Terrors in the shootout, saving twice from the spot to earn them an extra point.
United top the group but have played all their games, meaning it all comes down to second versus third as Saints take on Peterhead on Saturday.
Davidson says his players understand the importance of their trip north.
“I was quite happy with the performance and thought we probably had the better chances, especially in the second half,” he said.
“For me, if we score late, we would’ve seen the game out and win but we didn’t lose the game.
“In the penalties their goalie made a couple of great saves, especially off Scott Tanser.
“It’s all about Saturday, the players know that and understand where we are if we want to get through and top the group.
“We need to go up there and win.”
Dundee United manager Micky Mellon was satisfied with the bonus point that keeps their hopes of reaching the knockout stages alive.
“I thought it was a good game even if missing a crowd because I think fans would have enjoyed the end-to-end stuff.
“Overall, I’m pleased that we’ve come here and got the result.
“I’m just sorry three points.
“It is still a positive result at the end of the day.
“All in all it was a good night’s work. it wasn’t