St Mirren's Betfred Cup campaign comes to a close tomorrow as the Buddies host Airdrieonians at the Paisley 2021 Stadium.
Regardless of tomorrow's result neither side can qualify, effectively rendering the match meaningless. But Saints won't enter tomorrow's match with that mindset as they look to build towards the Ladbrokes Championship opening day fixture against Falkirk and secure a third place finish.
The Buddies defeated Stranraer 4-1 at Stair Park in the opening match of Group H. First half strikes from Gavin Reilly, Ross Stewart and Lewis Morgan were added to by a debut goal from Gregor Buchanan as St Mirren came from behind to pick up three points. However, a 1-0 loss to Livingston and a 5-0 defeat at Firhill against Partick Thistle ended Saints hopes of progressing to the last 16.
Airdrieonians also started off Group H with victory over Stranraer. An Andy Ryan penalty was sandwiched between a double from Cameron Russell before the Blues scored a late consolation goal. Goals from Dylan Mackin and Craig Halkett either side of half time saw Livingston overcome the League One side before a narrow 2-1 defeat against Partick Thistle ended their chances of qualifying.
St Mirren haven't faced the Lanarkshire side in competitive football since a 2-1 win in 2006 at Love Street in the old First Division. John Sutton was at the double as the Saints closed in on promotion to the then Scottish Premier League. The Buddies have won five of the last six encounters between the two teams with just one loss in 19.
Saints will be looking to make amends for last weekend's loss to Partick Thistle, while ended the group on a high ahead of the league campaign kicking-off next weekend. Kyle Magennis, Adam Eckersley, Josh Todd and Dale Hilson remain out for St Mirren, while Conor O'Keefe is a doubt after an injury picked up in training. Full back Stelios Demetriou returns to the squad after missing out last week due to suspension.
Airdrieonians are still without a permanent manager after Mark Wilson left the club in June. Coach Donald Jennow will continue to take charge of the side as the curtain comes down on the Betfred Cup for both sides.
