Jim Goodwin was left ‘flabbergasted’ that his St Mirren team had to compete yesterday – and insists Scottish football could have been left ‘a laughing stock.’
The Buddies boss watched on as his men were beaten comfortably 3-0 by Hibs in Paisley. Kevin Nisbet got the first inside 15 minutes before Joe Newell added a second just 120 seconds later.
Martin Boyle would finish off the scoring but the big talking point from this match was St Mirren’s virus situation. All three senior keepers had to sit out after number one and two Jak Alnwick and Dean Lyness tested positive for COVID-19, Peter Urminsky having to self-isolate as a precaution.
Zdenek Zlamal was brought in from Hearts on an emergency loan with goalkeeper coach Jamie Langfield on the bench. Goodwin expected some sympathy, but was left dejected when there wasn’t any.
“I was flabbergasted at the decision,” said Goodwin. “It was a ridiculous situation we found ourselves in on Friday and I don’t think any of us expected to be forced to play the game. We would have been the laughing stock of world football if we had a Premiership team putting an outfield player in goals for a competitive game.
“In the circumstances that we find ourselves in, it’s not easy to find keepers who have been tested. Thankfully, Hearts were able to give us Bobby [Zlamal] but the whole situation has been a disaster.
“It’s really disappointing and hopefully no other club finds themselves in this situation. I’m hoping to speak to the SPFL tomorrow or Monday and find out why they thought this was OK.
“The lesson that should be learned from this situation is if it happens throughout the goalkeeping department, let’s just show a little bit of common sense.”