With only goal difference separating them right now in the Scottish Premiership, both St Mirren and Livingston will be hoping to continue their fine starts to the season when they meet on Saturday.
Each club was able to secure a victory and a clean sheet in their most recent outing, and they will bring plenty of confidence into this particular encounter following the international break.
Match preview
St Mirren find themselves in a European position after the opening seven matches of the 2022-23 campaign, and that is something they shall be attempting to retain or strengthen this weekend.
Right now they sit just above Livingston due to their superior goal difference, but they will no doubt want to put some actual points between the two of them.
Despite a disappointing 3-0 defeat against St Johnstone, the Buddies came back in stunning fashion during the final performance before the recent international break.
St Mirren competed against the league leaders Celtic and handed the defending champions their first defeat in 38 matches with a famous victory.
Mark O'Hara and Jonah Ayunga managed to score within 10 minutes of each other, and that was enough to secure the three points after keeping a clean sheet.
© Reuters
Strong defensive performances are something that Livingston are equally as aware of, as the Lions come into this match after keeping two in a row.
David Martindale's squad have not been quite as strong offensively, as they have failed to score more than once in a game across their previous five outings in all competitions.
However, the fact that Livingston have earned consecutive 1-0 victories showcases their ability to keep things tight and grind out results.
A third victory in a row could potentially see the visitors climb up to third place if Hearts also end up dropping points.
Yet at the same time, a loss could lead to them falling down as low as eighth if other results go against them, showcasing the tightness of the table right now.
Team News
© Reuters
Following a perfect performance against Celtic, there will likely be no changes made to the St Mirren performance as they look to emulate that result.
O'Hara will continue to push his attacking qualities from the midfield while the back five that the Buddies have been implementing should provide defensive cover.
The visitors are also unlikely to change anything at the back considering they kept a clean sheet in their previous performance.
Bruce Anderson has been out of action as of late due to an ankle problem, but he is expected to be back in consideration soon.
St Mirren possible starting lineup:
Carson; Strain, Fraser, Gallagher, Dunne, Tanser; Baccus, Erhahon, O'Hara; Main, Ayunga
Livingston possible starting lineup:
George; Devlin, Obileye, Kelly, Montano; Holt, Omeonga, Penrice; Goncalves, Nouble, Pittman
We say: St Mirren 0-0 Livingston
There is little to separate these two teams right now, and that is something that could end up being reflected in the result this Sunday.
Both teams know how to defend, and with neither wanting to give up too much to lose their league position a goalless draw could end up taking place.
For data analysis of the most likely results, scorelines and more for this match please click here.
