St Johnstone, whilst chasing a top six spot, are going through a tricky time as of late. Three meetings with Celtic in recent weeks is taking its toll. Having faced the champions in the Scottish Cup, the Saints now have solely their league fixtures to focus on.
As we’ve seen from Motherwell’s recent turn of form, that isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Ironic in that the Steelmen are one of three sides they’re in contention with to break into the top half.
Celtic have beaten St Johnstone three times in the Perth side’s last five games. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
A loss at Tynecastle to Hearts and back-to-back 2-0 defeats at the hands of Celtic were somewhat excusable. But a 2-1 loss away at Hamilton Accies and a 5-0 defeat to Celtic had fans worried. Then they pulled it out the bag to grab a valuable point at Ibrox, a venue where they last lost 5-1.
Saints did very well, given the circumstances, at Ibrox. Stopping that run of defeats was pivotal if they are to secure a top six spot.
Chris Kane proved a real nuisance for the Rangers defence all afternoon. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
The Saints’ pressing from the front didn’t go unnoticed, with Chris Kane setting the standards in looking to shut off any potential Rangers passing openings. The home side were often forced to surrender possession or play the ball backwards in order to retain it.
Plenty of positives
Two banks of four with Sean Goss in between defence and midfield worked a treat for Tommy Wright’s side. They claimed another clean sheet to add to Zander Clark’s collection. St Johnstone, by all accounts, were worthy of their point.
With tricky consecutive home fixtures to come against Aberdeen and Hibs, it could well prove dividends if they can remain in the top six this season.