Teenage midfielder Scott Brown is hoping his first goal for St Johnstone will help a late bid to make the Perth side’s cup final squad.
Just 19, the former Bradford City player didn’t make the bench for his previous club for their big day at Wembley against Swansea in last season’s League Cup.
And he’s targeting one of the 18 match-day places for Saints at Celtic Park next Saturday.
“I was at the League Cup final last season with Bradford but didn’t get on the bench,” he recalled.
“That was disappointing. Hopefully I’ve put down a marker for our cup final squad.
“It was a good comeback from the lads and we showed real character to do that against the champions. We played really well and should have been three up at half-time, especially with the penalty. What a boost for the final to know we had outplayed Celtic. Hopefully we can take that form in to the Dundee United game.
“It was my first goal in just my second game for the club. The first was against Motherwell when we lost 4-0 so this was so much better. It means a lot to me but I didn’t celebrate because my first thought was that we could get a point out of it.
“The gaffer spoke to me on Monday so there were a few nerves preparing for the game. But I felt I did well.”
Brown added: “This season has been a mix of under-20s and being on the bench. Next season is going to be a massive season for me and I’m looking to make 15 to 20 starts. I will go away over the summer and come back ready to prove to the gaffer I’m ready to claim a place in his team.”
The only downside of Wednesday night was his failed attempt to get his namesake’s shirt after the match.
He explained: “My mum had been talking beforehand that it would be Scott Brown v Scott Brown. So I wanted the other Scott Brown’s jersey, but he wouldn’t give it to me.
“He was giving it to our physio Michael McBride. They know each other from the Scotland set-up. So I can’t really complain about it. It was shaping up as an average season until this week. Now I’m hoping I’ve done enough to keep my place for the Inverness game and maybe stake a claim for a place in the cup final squad.
“That would be just unbelievable. I have had to get eight tickets for the family and it would be incredible if I was walking out at Celtic Park as part of the squad.
“I went down to Bradford for two years when I was 16. I played a few first team games last season. I was offered a new deal and was flying but I was told I would be fifth choice.
“Mum and dad were at the Celtic game and it meant a lot to score in front of them.
“My granddad David Brown was there as well and he has been a massive influence on my career. He has got me fit. He takes me out running in the summer, watches what I am doing and he lets me know if the times aren’t up to scratch!”