Rhys McCabe says a play-off slot is a realistic target as they travel to Dundee United tonight
Airdrie boss Rhys McCabe denies that Saturday’s 2-1 defeat at Morton is a major set-back in their quest for a play-off slot, and says scrapping it out for a place in the Premiership is a realistic target.
But McCabe says they will need to raise their performance levels from Cappielow and achieve a level of consistency.
The Diamonds were hammered early in Greenock, as in eight minutes, George Oakley headed in a cross from Jai Quitongo, and two minutes later, Michael Garrity doubled their lead by taking advantage of a defensive blunder.
In the second half, Quitongo had a chance to score a third, and Airdrie assistant manager Callum Fordyce came close with a late consolation goal.
That put Airdrie eight points behind their rivals in fourth place, but with a game in hand, ahead of their trip to Dundee United tonight, with Morton travelling to Raith.
McCabe said: “I’ve seen clubs go on a run, using Morton as an example. I watched Dunfermline win [against Partick Thistle] last Friday when they’ shouldn’t have won.
“I believe they are 15 games undefeated. Earlier in the season, everyone was demanding Dougie Imrie’s firing, and they were without a squad [because of injuries].”
“Since the league shifts so swiftly, it’s critical that we attempt to establish some continuity and gain some momentum from now until the end of the season.
With our busy schedule coming up, hopefully we do that and get ready in the appropriate way.
“We’ve done alright thus far, but it’s not done. As a goal, I’d like to get the team as near to the play-offs as possible, and I believe that’s doable.
“We have a game coming up, and if we win, we may be four or five points off of fourth place, which in football words is two victories or a win and someone gives up points—something that has happened in this league before.
“I think that’s a reasonable goal, but we also can’t take it for granted; in order to achieve those outcomes, we need to go out and perform at that level.”
Leaders Dundee United, who defeated Queen’s Park 3-1 yesterday night (Tuesday), will host Airdrie this evening at Tannadice. On Saturday, the Spiders will visit New Broomfield.
McCabe is hoping for a resurgence in both.
