Dan Phillips on his 50th league appearance

Dan Phillips praised the “amazing” backing received from supporters in last weekend’s win against Hibs – and would love to see a huge turnout for Saturday’s match with Kilmarnock.

Phillips captained us in the capital where goals from Adama Sidibeh and Tony Gallacher secured an important three points.

Now we return to McDiarmid Park on Saturday (3pm kick-off) to take on Kilmarnock in what will be the final pre-split fixture.

“The celebrations last weekend showed how much it means to us,” Phillips said.

“After the disappointment against Dundee, it was important to show some resolve and come away with a big three points.

“It was a massive boost. There are six games to go and we know we can get a result at home now.

“The fans were amazing last weekend and hopefully they will support us again on Saturday and give us that backing that we need to push on.”

Making last weekend even more special, it was Phillips’ 50th appearance in the Scottish Premiership.

He said: “Everything seemed to fall into place. Before the game I wasn’t aware it was my 50th league appearance and that is a big achievement for me.

“I was really happy with it but the result was the most important thing, of course. Being captain was a nice touch. I feel privileged to be captain at any opportunity and, to top things off, my family were at the game as well.

“It was nice, on a personal note, being able to be captain and win in front of my mum, brother and dad.”

Phillips had stepped in to take the armband with usual skipper Liam Gordon missing through injury.

“Gordy is an amazing leader and you can learn so much off him – how he carries himself and talks on the pitch,” Phillips continued.

“Whenever he is not available or if I’m asked to do the job, I’m really happy to do it. For me, we have so many leaders on the pitch.

“It is not like an added responsibility. We have experienced guys like Ryan McGowan and Andy Considine who are always very vocal.”