Aberdeen boss Craig Brown hopes victory in Saturday's Scottish Cup quarter-final with St Mirren will provide the catalyst for a strong season finale.
The Dons were defeated 3-1 by Dundee United on Monday night, damaging their chances of a top-six finish with the Clydesdale Bank Premier League split approaching. But Brown is eager for his side to finish the season with a flourish.
He told the club's official website RedWeb: "Saturday can be a defining game in our season because a win in the Scottish Cup would get some momentum going. We've got four games before the split and if we manage to put in some good performances we have a good chance to pick up some vital points."
Zander Diamond was forced off in the defeat at Tannadice after suffering a cut forehead, but is set to be fit to play at Pittodrie on Saturday, while Chris Maguire is available again following suspension.
Brown added: "We'll be pleased to welcome Chris Maguire back into the squad and Zander should be okay for selection after his bruising head knock sustained on Monday night.
"Other than the long-term injuries to Darren Mackie, Yoann Folly and Fraser Fyvie, we have a fully fit squad who are anticipating a first-class encounter against St Mirren."
Source: PA
Source: PA