St Johnstone manager Simo Valakari’s return to Fir Park was a challenging one, as Motherwell handed his team a third consecutive defeat in the Scottish Premiership. Valakari, a former Motherwell player, faced a familiar setting but found no favours as the hosts took a 2-0 lead by half-time with an impressive counter-attacking display.
Motherwell’s quick and decisive breaks repeatedly troubled St Johnstone’s backline, with right-back Marvin Kaleta particularly effective down the flank. Kaleta’s pinpoint cross set up the first goal, finished sharply by Tawanda Maswanhise. Tom Sparrow added to the tally soon after with a low, well-placed shot, leaving the visitors struggling to keep up.
Under manager Stuart Kettlewell, Motherwell continue to capitalise on their strengths and have now opened up a notable seven-point gap above seventh place, underlining their ambitions for a top-six finish. Kettlewell praised his side’s ability to exploit the open spaces left by St Johnstone, a team trying to adopt a more attacking style this season but currently grappling with defensive vulnerabilities.
St Johnstone did show some resilience in the second half, with Valakari making defensive adjustments to try and stabilise the game. Bringing on Lewis Neilson and Andre Raymond at the break bolstered their defence, allowing them to regain some control. They were given hope when VAR awarded a penalty after Andy Halliday’s handball, which captain Nicky Clark converted confidently to reduce the deficit.
In a dramatic final phase, St Johnstone thought they had found an equaliser when Jack Sanders tapped in from a corner. However, VAR intervened again, ruling out the goal for handball and dashing the visitors’ late hopes.
Motherwell’s composed performance saw them hold on to secure their fifth-place position, now tied on points with Dundee United and Rangers. Meanwhile, St Johnstone, facing a string of recent setbacks, sit in 10th as they work to balance their newfound attacking intent with greater defensive solidity.
Full time: Motherwell 2-1 St Johnstone
Attendance: 4,306