(25-01-2016, 22:00)0762 Wrote: This is the start of a crucial fortnight for Hibs in terms of maintaining interest and momentum in the cup tourneys - just stay positive and keep winning matches Hibs! 
The first of two games at Tynecastle is v the Perth Saints who will be tricky opponents even though their recent form has been indifferent. No doubt, they will 'raise their game'. However, it's interesting to note that Tynecastle is not one of their 'happy hunting grounds' when it comes to crucial matches played at this venue and here's hoping it continues. Personally, I'm not too interested in winning the League Cup (seen it won before on a number of occasions!) but it would be good for our younger fans + a final appearance for Hibs would generate welcome revenue for the club and vindicate Leeann Dempster's stance to hold to Premiership prices and wages. In a sell-out game, Hibs fans will hold the bulk of the tickets. So the guys will certainly be given solid support and encouragement throughout this match - should be an electric atmosphere! Stubbs will likely field his strongest side but what will it be? Is Anthony Stokes eligible for this cup tie? Also will Stubbsy still rotate players anyway as he does have various positional options to ponder? All will be revealed on Saturday.
Re Saint Johnstone, I think all the talk covers the situation re Michael O'Halloran and the threat he poses to Hibs. My hunch is the Saints' manager will sell the player if they lose this semi-final but that is not certain either. I'd still be wary of ex-Hibees, Liam Craig and Wotherspoon, a product of the Hibs Academy!
GGTTH
O'Halloran goes to the Govan club after all - I read the script like a book but still surprised that Saint Johnstone 'bit the bullet' and sold to these antagonistic c##ts/crooks who don't know how to behave pragmatically in such business dealings!! I guess 'money talks' as usual eh!!
