By Dave Lord

WITH SCOTTISH football’s most coveted trophy just two games away, a serious bout of cup fever has gripped Perth.

St Johnstone travel to Hampden tomorrow knowing victory over Rangers will send them to the Scottish Cup final and a date with Queen of the South.

With silverware so tantalisingly close, excitement—and expectations—have been steadily rising.

Those out shopping in the Fair City this weekend will certainly be wearing blue-tinted spectacles, with everything from St Johnstone cakes to blue sausages on sale.

Fans looking to fortify themselves ahead of the clash can even tuck into pies dyed with the team’s colours.

“Football widows” are looking forward to a very quiet Sunday at the shops.

With one in eight Perth residents expected to travel to Glasgow, and hundreds more watching in local pubs and clubs, the streets are sure to be quiet.

“I am a keen shopper and bargain hunting without all the crowds is something I will definitely relish,” a local mum said.

Celebrity fans are also looking forward to the big match and, although Rangers are a formidable opponent, they know a place in the final against Queen of the South offers a very realistic chance of silverware.

Taggart star Colin McCredie is well aware of the size of the task faced by his beloved blues.

“I am so proud of cup run so far this season,” he said.

“We have a great record and if we play as well as we did in the quarter-final replay against St Mirren then we can beat anybody, Rangers included.”

Average White Band vocalist Alan Gorrie will not be at Hampden in person as he is performing in New York—but his heart will be with the Saints.

“Saints have a decent record against the big boys and I will be praying for a miracle on Sunday,” he said.

“I am hoping to find somewhere here showing a live broadcast, but I do wish I could be at Hampden in person.”

Perth and North Perth-shire MP Pete Wishart last night sent his “very best wishes” to St Johnstone.

“Queen of the South have already shown that first division sides are a real match for SPL opposition,” he said.

“St Johnstone beat higher league opposition in the form of St Mirren and I hope they can now complete a giant-killing exercise by winning against on-form Rangers.

“I know there will be a great support travelling through from Perthshire to Hampden.

“The atmosphere will be electric and I hope there will be much for the Saints fans to sing about.

“Good luck to manager Derek McInnes and his men for Sunday.”