Mark Walker's Scottish Tips: Saints look Premiership dark horses

MARK WALKER is an experienced Scottish journalist and tipster and in conjunction with McBookie we're delighted to bring him on board.

Anyone who reads the Racing Post will know his name as he did Scottish tips for the paper until the start of this season.

Mark is now doing a weekly blog for McBookie and here are his thoughts for this weekend.

He says: “St Mirren are already staking a claim to be top-six dark horses this season and can add to a terrific start to the season by beating Ross County at home this week.

“Jim Goodwin's side have two 1-0 wins in the bag already after three games and it wouldn't be a huge surprise if it's narrow margins again this week in Paisley.

“But Saints are looking solid at the back and bolstered their frontline with another highly encouraging signing this week with the capture of proven marksman Kristian Dennis.

“Forget the fact he was plying his trade in the National League last season with Notts County, he has scored goals throughout his career and it could be an exciting partnership with Jon Obika.

“County have got off to a decent enough start themselves but look slightly leaky at the back recently having conceded four in their last two games. And St Mirren look a fair enough price at 7-5 to chalk up another win.

“Motherwell appear to have turned the corner and can comprehensively beat Lanarkshire rivals Hamilton this week.

“Stephen Robinson's men are strong favourites at 4-7 but the 6-4 on offer from them to win half-time and full-time appeals.

“The addition of Scotland international Stephen O'Donnell instantly bolstered them last week at an admittedly out-of-sorts Hibs side and their midfield duo of David Turnbull and Allan Campbell are improving every week.

“They were the better team at Easter Road last Saturday night and Accies won't provide that level of opposition at Fir Park.

“Accies were battered by St Mirren in the first half last week in particular and you would expect Motherwell to have a real go from kick off.

“As previously stated, Hamilton's longevity in the top flight has been incredible but it has to end sometimes and they look weak in all areas this season. And the Steelmen can get off the mark with the double result this week.

“Celtic look a nice price at a shade of odds on to score in both halves at Tannadice on Saturday night against Dundee United.

“The Hoops enjoyed a midweek Champions League romp that should have tuned them up nicely for their first visit to the ground for over four years.

“Neil Lennon's side were dire on their last away game in the Premiership but should enjoy themselves against Mickey Mellon's side who won't stick 11 men behind the ball.

“Celtic could well play both Odsonne Edouard and Albian Ajeti up front and that should spell goals for Celtic.”