Will Haining is no hatchet-man

Apr 27 2009 by Paul Behan, Paisley Daily Express

BUDDIES boss Gus MacPherson leapt to the defence of centre back Will Haining after he became a target of the Rangers boo-boys during Saturday’s 3-0 defeat at the National Stadium.

Haining was involved in a first-half controversy when he challenged Portuguese midfield playmaker Pedro Mendes for possession and the Rangers star came off second best.

Mendes required treatment from the Ibrox medical staff before being stretchered from the field and Haining incurred the wrath of the Rangers supporters as a result.

But MacPherson is adamant that Haining is no ‘hatchet-man’ and reckoned his challenge on Mendes was a fair and honest one.

MacPherson said: “I think Will clearly won the ball and we could see a change in direction of the ball.

“It bounced at an awkward height and he clearly went through and made contract with the ball.

“I don’t think there was any malice in the challenge and that’s not the type of player Will is. He’s an honest centre-back.”

Saints midfielder Stephen McGinn was involved in an angry exchange with Maurice Edu after the American caught him late in the first half.

Both players got a lecture from referee Calum Murray but escaped bookings.

MacPherson said: “I never saw it. I just saw the reaction to the player but the referee just dealt with it during that stage of the game. I might change my opinion once I see television pictures.”

Meanwhile, Craig Dargo, who missed Saturday’s game with a thigh problem, is causing concern and MacPherson is unsure over the severity of the injury.

MacPherson said: “We’re not too sure. He’s had a scan and there’s a slight tear at the top of his thigh and there is swelling at the moment. It only happened on Thursday morning and it will be early next week before we understand the full extent of it.”