Goodwin hopes 'common sense will prevail' over red card

Jim Goodwin says he hopes “common sense will prevail” after he was sent off for celebrating the goal that put his side into the League Cup semi-final.

The St Mirren manager was shown a red-card after Conor McCarthy’s 93rd minute goal against Rangers in Paisley on Wednesday night but says no offence was intended in the incident.

While Goodwin’s actions do not automatically earn him a touchline ban, he could face a suspension if the matter is taken further by the Scottish FA.

Speaking to STV News, the St Mirren boss said he would contest a suspension if he were to receive one.

He said: “It was a really disappointing end to the night for myself, obviously to score a winning goal in the 93rd minute emotions were running high and we were jumping around and I think the fourth official has misread my celebration as being offensive, when it wasn’t in the slightest.

“It was just a fist pump and was out of sheer joy so hopefully I will get the chance to explain the situation and common sense will prevail. “

Goodwin’s men booked a place in the last four after a double from Jamie McGrath and winner from McCarthy helped them to a dramatic 3-2 win over the Premiership league leaders.

The Irishman says the victory has brought a feel-good factor to St Mirren Park.

He added: “There is a real air of positivity around the stadium and we are all absolutely delighted, to have got through last night’s game and look forward to the semi-final in January.

“We showed real character, we stuck to the game-plan and to lose a goal so early on was disappointing but I think the players deserve a huge amount of credit for their reaction.”

The Buddies will now play Livingston at Hampden early next year with Hibernian playing St Johnstone in the other semi.

Goodwin said: “Every manager left now will believe they have a genuine chance of lifting the cup and we will be no different.”