Rangers TV date for Mark O'Hara as Europe looms but St Mirren skipper focused on Hearts SMiSA finale

Mark O’Hara says St Mirren won’t be sidetracked by the small screen as their European dream could be realised tonight without kicking a ball.

Fifth-placed Buddies missed out on the chance to secure a Euro return for the first time in 37 years at the weekend following a 1-0 Premiership defeat to Kilmarnock.

Dundee’s 3-0 loss to Hearts at Tynecastle meant victory over Killie in Paisley would have got the job done.

Saints hold a five-point advantage over the Dark Blues who are back in action this evening when they face Rangers at Ibrox live on Sky Sports.

Anything less than a win will seal European football for the Buddies whose next game is tomorrow night at home to Hearts.

The stage is set for history to be made but captain O’Hara – who will be a keen telly viewer – vowed there will be no loss of focus as the clinching scenarios are considered.

He said: “We will prepare for the game on Wednesday night as if we need to win so Dundee playing before us won’t affect us. Dundee are a good side and capable of getting points. I will watch the game. I like watching all the games in this league and this one will be no different.

“We will still be trying to win the game on Wednesday night regardless of the score on Tuesday. Last season we were close but couldn’t get over the line and that feeling is still burning but we’ve got another chance.

“Our goal every season is to progress from the previous season. We haven’t quite done that yet. It’s not official. We finished sixth place and we want to get fifth place this season.”

O’Hara could only look on as Killie’s playing staff partied on the pitch in front of their sold-out travelling support after booking a Europa League place.

The 28-year-old admitted the prevailing emotions within the dressing room were deflation and frustration at not taking advantage of opportunity knocking.

“It’s disappointing,” he said. “When you see those celebrations, you want it to be us but we have a quick turnaround to put things right on Wednesday night in another home game.

“This one is deflating and it’s another chance which has passed us by but we’re in a good position. We’ve put a lot into that game but Kilmarnock have seen it out brilliantly.

“We came out the traps fast and huffed and puffed but without that final bit of quality. Credit to Kilmarnock. They defended deep and they were effective at it. They have had the beating of us and it is frustrating.”

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