Scottish Football: Saints have to hope for helping hand

ST JOHNSTONE travel to Motherwell today knowing that anything less than victory will consign them to the First Division next season. They also need one of the three teams above them - Heart of Midlothian, Partick Thistle or Kilmarnock - to slip up.

Paul Cherry, the Saints' midfield player, is available again, while Motherwell, who are seeking second place, will be without the suspended Miodrag Krivokapic and the injured Phil O'Donnell.

Kilmarnock are hoping that their wily striker, Bobby Williamson, will recover from a knock on the knee for their game against Hibernian at Easter Road. Their player-manager, Tommy Burns, is likely to put his faith in experience by playing himself and his assistant, Billy Stark.

At Firhill, one point for Partick and Hearts would see them safe, with Thistle reporting almost a full squad, although there is a slight doubt about the midfielder, Alex Taylor. Gary Mackay is free of suspension for Hearts, although Neil Berry is a doubt. Both managers have indicated they will go for a win, and have denied suggestions that they will be happy to settle for a tame draw.

At Ibrox, Rangers will be in party mood to celebrate their sixth consecutive title. The trophy will be presented after the game against Dundee.