Livingston boss David Martindale says Saturday’s trip to Dundee is the first of 11 ‘cup finals’ his side face between now and the end of the season.
Such is the nature of the league right now that victory at Dens Park could potentially propel the Lions into the top six and within touching distance of a European place - but defeat could have them looking over their shoulder at the bottom two.
Remarkably, just three points separate fourth-placed Hibs and the Lions, who sit in ninth, while defeat to basement boys Dundee would see them close the gap on Livi to seven points with a game in hand.
He said: “It’s going to be very difficult to pick up three points on Saturday.
“There’s 11 games left in the season and every one of them is going to be a cup final for both teams.
“Usually at this stage of the season you have a rough idea of what’s going to happen, but that’s not the case at all this season. We are fighting for top six and not far off a European place and also battling against relegation at the same time.
“A couple of results either way can completely change the picture.”
He added: “I think the guys are punching above their weight but it’s difficult not to think that the last three or four games have been missed opportunities.
“Everyone and their dog had us written off as relegated early in the season so that’s how I’ve made peace with the past few games - the fact that the guys have done incredibly well to get us into our current position.
"Ultimately finishing 10th would be success for this club because it gives you another season in the Premiership and the finances that brings with it, which can only be a good thing for the football club."
Livingston are set to welcome back Odin Bailey from injury, while Ayo Obileye has recovered from a knock that saw him substituted last weekend against St Mirren. Goalkeeper Ivan Konovalov arrived in the country on Sunday following his work permit approval and is set to be named in the squad.
Don't miss the latest news from the West Lothian Courier. Sign up to our free newsletter here
