GARY IRVINE is going out to heap misery on Hibernian this afternoon on what is set to be a landmark day in the Championship title race.

The Easter Road club come to the Paisley 2021 Stadium knowing that anything less than a win, couple with a Rangers victory in Kirkcaldy, will see the Ibrox side crowned champions.

While three points for Hibs could just be prolonging the inevitable, a triumph for the home side would go a long way to securing their safety as they seek to open up the current 10-point gap between themselves and second-bottom Livingston.

And full-back Irvine has quashed suggestions the Buddies have little to play for this afternoon, saying: "I don't think with that mindset.

"Hibs are coming on Saturday to our place and they want to win to keep the pressure on Rangers.

"We are looking for the win ourselves as we want to finish the season strong.

"Hibs have been brilliant this season and they have obviously hit a sticky patch at the end of February/March and nobody can explain why that has come about as they have pushed Rangers all the way.

"They have done very well to keep up with Rangers all season as the form they have been on has been great.

"You have to give credit to Hibs and Falkirk who have been in the background all season but have kept within touching distance.

"For some reason Hibs have fallen away from the title race.

"Hibs will be looking to make it difficult for us and win all three points and keep things going for as long as possible.”

While Hibs have struggled to find consistency since the turn of the year, St Mirren have kicked into gear under Alex Rae.

The Saints have won three out of their last four games, and Irvine is confident they can keep that run going.

"It is always good to come off the back of a win.

"Ever since the gaffer has come in we have done well and it has been good and positive and has given us something to build on so far.”