Hibernian and Aberdeen are in a shootout for third place and Derek McInnes has challenged his players to outgun the Hibees.
Jack Ross ’ team went down 1-0 at St Johnstone yesterday but the Dons failed to take advantage as they were held to a 0-0 by Hamilton at Pittodrie.
That leaves the gap between the two at three points in the Premiership table, although Hibs have a game in hand over their rivals.
McInnes’ men suffered a meek 2-0 defeat in Leith last month which seriously harmed their chances of catching their opponents in the race for third, and the Europa League qualification that comes with it.
However, the men in green and white have lost their last two, leaving the door open for Aberdeen to keep the pressure on.
Despite closing the gap yesterday, McInnes knows his men can’t afford slip ups before they face the Easter Road club after the split.
He said: “There is not a lot of room for error.
“We are going to have to outshoot Hibs in terms of getting results and we certainly cannot fall further behind Hibs.
“The post-split games are where it will be sorted out and we should have three at home.
“It’s not easy but it’s certainly not beyond us.”
Hibs can increase the gap to six points when they play their game in hand at Ross County, with Aberdeen not in action for a fortnight, when they play Dundee United at Tannadice.
