STICKTOTHEPLAN
Pastresults caninspire performance
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St Johnstone manager Craig Levein is taking heart from his side’s previous performances against Celtic this season.
And he hopes his players will also draw inspiration from those games when they visit the Premiership title chasers at Parkhead tomorrow.
The Perth side fought hard for a 0-0 draw in Glasgow last August under Steven Maclean, before the Hoops had to come from behind to win 3-1 in the reverse tie at Mcdiarmid Park – under the guidance of Levein – with one goal in it until the last kick of the game.
Saints themselves are on the hunt for points to put distance between themselves and the relegation play-off spot.
Ross County’s 2-2 draw with Hibernian on Wednesday has put further emphasis on that aim.
“The boys got a draw at Celtic Park early in the season and I thought we played pretty well against them here [Mcdiarmid],” said Levein.
“We had a really good chance to equalise when it was 2-1, didn’t take it and they got a third.
“We know that they’ve got quality players but if we work hard and stick to the game plan it will give us a chance.
“We’ll not go there just worrying about what they can do.
“If we put on a similar performance to the one here – and take our chances – then we’ve got a chance of taking something out of the game.
“I’m expecting the work rate to be good again on Saturday, that the players will be conscientious and that they will give their very best to follow the plan.”
The Perth boss added: “By this stage of the season you know pretty much what to expect from every opponent.
“It was unusual to see both Old Firm teams lose on the same weekend but they seem to have bounced back well in their cup ties.
“They’ve both got the pressure that goes with a tight title race.
“There’s not a lot between them this season. It wouldn’t surprise me if either of them end up winning it.
“That’s not our concern, though.”
Levein revealed he is not getting drawn into a staring contest with the league standings and insists taking it one game at a time is the best method.
“I honestly don’t know what the league positions above us are, which teams have what, and what the gaps are,” he said.
“I’ve not got any desire to go and have a look at that. It doesn’t help.
“It’s important that we focus on what we can have an impact on that’s training and matches.
“The league table will take care of itself depending on how well we do, basically.
“We’re not safe yet. If we can get to that point then other things will happen from there.”