Boosted by their Scottish Cup win last weekend over Brechin, as well as the recent 3-1 victory over Dundee and the draw with Ross County, Teale believes there is a new-found steadiness to the side.

The victory over Dundee gave Saints a huge lift and moved them a little further away from the foot of the table.

Now their challenge lies in maintaining their recent form – starting this weekend with the home tie against St Johnstone.

"I think there is a belief about the team," said Teale. "Look at St Johnstone and how well they have done this season. There is no reason why we cannot replicate that kind of form.

"For a time there we felt we just weren't getting that bit of luck you need in games. But we've turned it around and we are determined to keep going in the right direction.

"If you look at the league, a couple of successive wins can change the picture."

St Johnstone have stumbled recently after an impressive start to the campaign, but Teale believes they will be strong opponents.

"We know what they've got and they're very strong in attack," he said.

"We know what Nigel Hasselbaink can do from his time with us and how fast he can be.

"St Johnstone as a team have impressed me this season. They have a bit of pace and can hit you on the counter.

" We have to take any chances that we get. It is vital we start working our way up the table and get ourselves out of the relegation zone."