Lennon seeks strong finish

Danny Lennon has urged St Mirren not to let their season slip as they face relegation-threatened opponents for the second week running.

Saints twice had a two-goal lead against Clydesdale Bank Premier League bottom club Dunfermline at St Mirren Park last weekend but ended up drawing 4-4.

They face second-bottom Hibernian at home on Sunday and Lennon has urged his side not to be complacent as they bid to finish above the bottom three for the first time in the SPL.

"We have worked hard to put that right this week," Lennon said.

"I have said we are in unfamiliar territory playing above the relegation battle and trying to push up the table. It's been more than 20 years since we have done that.

"I've challenged the players to be at their best and cap off a season that has certainly had progress and we look to have a strong finish.

"Having scored nine goals in the last three games, we are looking to bring that entertaining style and attacking football against a team that is fighting relegation. It's a big, big game for both clubs."

As well as recognition in the table for their evident improvement off the park, Lennon is looking for off-field benefits to a higher finish.

"We are looking to cap our progress and boost our player budget for next season in terms of financial rewards," he said.

"It could be the difference in giving us a bit of a war chest.

"The players are going to benefit financially, the club will benefit financially.

"We have achieved our objective, which is always survival, and for the progress of the club we have to keep trying to raise the bar."