The Saints are in KDM Evolution Trophy quarter-final action on Tuesday night.
Ayr United provide the opposition, with the game taking place at neutral venue The Falkirk Stadium (7.45pm kick-off).
Need some pre-match reading? Here’s the thoughts of head coach Simo Valakari.
On cup competition, he said: “It’s a big game. From our point of view, it is nice to play these cup games because you are out of the pressure of the Championship. That is our bread and butter.
“But the cup games bring an extra spice in our season. These matches are all about winning – and that is what we’re looking to do.”
On playing at a neutral venue, Simo said: “I know our fans will be there. When we knew we were going to play at neutral venue, we were thinking of our fans.
“But we need to travel there with no excuses and be strong there.”
On Ayr, he said: “We still remember the first game against them – the 0-0 game. They were able to hurt us in moments with their transitions.
“Then, at their place, in the first half they really hurt us with their transitions. We were 2-0 down and, in the last 10 minutes of the first half, we were chasing shadows.
“But big credit to our players for how they came out in the second half, showed their character and quality to score four goals and deservedly get the three points.
“So, Ayr are a good team. They can defend solid, are tough and pass the ball as well.”
On the importance of the squad, Simo continued: “Everyone has to be ready. We have three games in one week and we will need everyone. I know the boys will be ready.
“As always, we pick the best team that we think can win the match. If you are not starting, the game is not gone. You can play a big role.”
Reflecting on the 1-0 win against Airdrie on Friday, he said: “I said it after the match, it was a big win against Airdrieonians. There was a lot of talk that we had not played for a long time and the results in the league before that were not maybe what we hoped for.
“Airdrie were a team in form, at their own home, playing good football. Our boys showed the quality in the first 20 minutes and scored a great goal.
“The opponent put us under pressure but we showed resilience and it was a great clean sheet. Big players needed to step up in the moments and a good example was Toby’s save. What a beautiful save. That is why we have big players.
“As I say, it was a big win. But there are a lot of things we can improve on.”
There’s still time to join us at The Falkirk Stadium this evening.
CLICK HERE FOR ALL OF TONIGHT’S TICKETING INFORMATION!
Can’t make the match, you can watch it on PPV via Saints TV for £8.99. Click here.
