Scott Tanser hopes he can emulate the Scottish Cup success he had with St Johnstone at St Mirren – only this time with fans.
The 30-year-old was a significant part of the Perth Saints team that went all the way in 2021 when they beat Hibernian 1-0 at Hampden.
Although an unused substitute on the day, Tanser was part of the side that knocked out Rangers in the quarter-finals before overcoming Jim Goodwin’s Buddies in the semis.
Reflecting back on his time at McDiarmid Park, the left wing-back says that – although it wasn’t ideal that he never featured in the final – he knows he contributed to that magical run.
He said: “It’s disheartening not playing, obviously, but being in the squad [was good, especially after] being a big part of the reason we got there as well.”
And on winning the cup in an empty national stadium due to covid restrictions, Tanser admitted it was an unusual experience.
“It would have been better if there was a packed house there,” he said. “It was strange, quiet. As soon as you finish, you just go home. No parties or anything. You’re just back on the bus – it’s obviously not a normal day.”
Now Tanser wants to sprinkle some more cup magic as the Paisley Saints welcome a rejuvenated Hearts to the SMiSA Stadium on Monday night under the lights in the fifth round.
The game, which will be on TV, is set to be a difficult test for Stephen Robinson’s side who progressed thanks to victory at League One Queen of the South but lost 1-0 at the weekend to St Johnstone in the Premiership.
Tanser is relishing a crack at Monday Night Football and would love to sample cup success with all the bells and whistles of a full house and post-match celebrations.
He added: “I feel that’s the thing we missed out on – as did the fans. They missed out on it as well so it wasn’t just us. But if we can go on a run and we can get to Hampden again, that would be brilliant.
“I’ve spoken to people who don’t like midweek games and some people prefer Saturdays. It’s just how you feel. I do like a night game. Obviously the waiting around through the day plays a part but it’s all about preference.”
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