Dundee defender Gary Irvine believes the Dark Blues should aim to be as relentless as champions-elect Ross County if they are to emulate the Highlanders and secure promotion to the SPL in 12 months’ time.
The Dens Park club have had excellent spells of form in this campaign but have not quite enjoyed the consistency of Derek Adams’ side.
That’s what has made the difference in the end, according to the full-back who has won a First Division title with St Johnstone earlier in his career.
Dundee continue their bid to finish second top with a home clash against Queen of the South tonight, but next term is already in the back of their minds.
Irvine said: ”You’ve got to give Ross County credit. I know a lot of the boys there. They’ve had a big strong squad all season, which has played a massive part, and it will stand them in good stead next season as well.
”I was there for six months on loan. It’s a great wee club and I think they’ll do well. They’ve dealt with their fixtures better than us. That’s what it comes down to and you can’t get away from that.
”Their record would be impressive in any season in any league. We’ve slipped up a few times when they’ve just kept on winning or dug out a draw when they were behind, scoring a last-minute goal. That’s what you need to do to win leagues.”
Dundee are seven points ahead of Falkirk in the race for second place, thanks to a win over the Bairns on Saturday, but know they face a tough 90 minutes against the relegation-threatened Doonhamers.
Irvine said: ”Queens are fighting for their lives so we have to be wary. It won’t be easy for us but we know what to expect as we’ve played teams nearer the bottom of the table in recent weeks.
”Our fans want to see us finish the season with a flurry so that has got to be our number one aim.”
Like most at Dens, Irvine’s contract will soon be up and he’ll assess his options over the summer.
He said: ”I weighed things up last summer. That’s what you need to do and this year will be the same. But I’ve really enjoyed this season and hopefully I’m still part of the gaffer’s plans.
”We’ve got experience and a few young lads coming through as well. It’s in everybody’s mind and hopefully we’ll get it sorted out as soon as possible.”
Dundee boss Barry Smith is calling on his players to keep their winning run going until the end of the season.
He said: ”It’s credit to the players they’ve been able to keep performing. They could have downed tools but they haven’t. They’ve scored seven goals in the last two games, which is a good return.
”I’ve only really questioned them in one or two games and over the course of a season that’s very good. Apart from anything else, they want to keep going to thank the fans for their continued support.
”Queens will not make it easy. We need to make sure we match them in every department but if we can play like we did against Falkirk we’ll give ourselves every chance.”
Dundee defender Neil McGregor is definitely but the hosts have no fresh injury worries from the weekend.