Kilmarnock moved into the top six of the Scottish Premiership with a commanding 3-1 victory over bottom side St Johnstone at Rugby Park.
Early Lead Sets the Tone
Liam Polworth gave the hosts an early advantage, capitalising on a mistake by Elliot Watt before displaying great composure to chip the ball over Andy Fisher in the St Johnstone goal.
Killie Seal the Win in Three-Minute Blitz
Kilmarnock put the game beyond doubt with two goals in three second-half minutes. Fraser Murray doubled their lead with a sensational free-kick from 25 yards, curling the ball past Fisher into the bottom corner. Moments later, Bobby Wales showcased his finishing ability by controlling a pass from Lewis Mayo and slotting home a composed low finish, making it 3-0.
St Johnstone’s Revival Stalls
Despite coming into the match on a four-game winning streak, St Johnstone struggled to impose themselves. Their best first-half chance came in the 36th minute when Stephen Duke-McKenna’s cross-field pass found Sam Curtis, but his shot was comfortably saved by Kilmarnock goalkeeper Kieron O’Hara. Marley Watkins also came close for Killie, hitting the crossbar just before half-time.
Saints boss Simo Valakari made tactical changes at the break, introducing Taylor Steven and Zach Mitchell in an attempt to turn the game around. However, Kilmarnock remained in control, with Brad Lyons forcing another fine save from Fisher early in the second half.
Late Consolation for Saints
St Johnstone finally found the net in added time when Graham Carey converted from close range, but it was little more than a consolation as Killie comfortably saw out the match to claim their second consecutive home victory.
What the Managers Said
Kilmarnock Manager Derek McInnes: “The league is unpredictable, with teams around us struggling to put wins together. It’s crucial to find consistency, and we’re determined to be a top-six team this season.”
St Johnstone Manager Simo Valakari: “It was a tough result. Kilmarnock pressed well, and we struggled to play through it at key moments. We’ve defended well recently, but conceding an early goal changed the game’s dynamic. Credit to our opponent – they deserved the win.”
Kilmarnock’s victory keeps their European hopes alive, while St Johnstone remain six points adrift at the bottom, facing an uphill battle to climb out of the relegation zone.