It was clear inside the opening two minutes that we were on song for this game. Once again we had pinned the opposition back with an energetic start. We were quicker to the ball, eager to challenge and happy to attack in numbers. Clarkson's early goal gave a welcome reward and reinforced the belief which was evident.
The referee and manager exchange greetings
The game should have been won by half time. We made more than enough goal scoring chances to make the second period a formality but the tone had been set and the one goal proved to be a winner.
Clarkson deserved his ovation as he made way for McCormack and we will miss his running in the next two games as he sits, suspended, watching from the stand.
The pitch seemed to hold up well following the much publicised repairs. The grass was heavily sanded but it was firm and there were no more baubles than are common on our surfaces at this time of year. It can only improve as the growing season begins.
There is a fascinating battle for the last place in the top six.
We have a tough trio of fixtures before the post-split games. It can't get much harder than Celtic home and away and Rangers at home. On the other hand our rivals for third place have only one game remaining. For the first time in years we approach the end of the season with a real prize still within our grasp.
If we can retain the sparkle which was on show on Saturday there is every prospect that we might have a European journey to look forward to at the start of next season.
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