St Johnstone head into their match against St Mirren today after securing a 4-3 victory over Kilmarnock in their Scottish Premiership opener. Manager Simo Valakari warned that his side must be solid and streetwise this season or face a speedy return to the second tier.
Valakari enjoyed the seven-goal thriller more than Kilmarnock manager Neil McCann, but acknowledged that conceding three goals is not sustainable. The Finnish manager arrived in Perth in October 2024, replacing Craig Levein to implement a progressive playing style.
St Johnstone were relegated that season after missing out on a great escape, but the club and supporters stuck with Valakari. The decision paid off as Saints coasted through the Championship to earn promotion back to the top flight at the first attempt.
Saints aim to follow the blueprint set by Falkirk, who finished sixth last season under John McGlynn with an attractive style. Motherwell also earned praise for taking a forward-thinking approach to attract supporters.
St Johnstone have retained most of their Championship-winning squad at McDiarmid Park, though Josh McPake left to join Hearts. Bosnian left-back Enes Alic is set to become the club's ninth summer signing over the coming days, barring any hiccups.
"You cannot buy the culture," Valakari explained earlier this week. "You cannot buy the togetherness."
Squad depth and key players
Midfielder Jamie Gullan was pipped by McPake for the PFA Championship Player of the Year award last season, but assisted three goals against Kilmarnock on Sunday. Forward Josh Fowler also opened his Premiership account in the victory.
St Johnstone host St Mirren knowing they cannot afford to ship three goals again today. St Mirren opened their campaign with an away victory at Falkirk after surviving relegation via the play-offs last term.
St Mirren manager and form
Killian Phillips scored twice in St Mirren's win at Falkirk. Fans initially questioned the appointment of manager Craig McLeish after Stephen Robinson left for Aberdeen.
McLeish kept St Mirren in the top flight, guided them through the Premier Sports Cup group stage during the summer, and secured three points on matchday one.
