Kilmarnock vs St Johnstone
Scottish Premiership
Saturday
23rd December 2023
The BBSP Stadium
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the Scottish Premiership fixture between Kilmarnock and St Johnstone.
Kilmarnock vs St Johnstone: Preview
Kilmarnock form analysis
Kilmarnock have shown signs of improvement in the Scottish Premiership recently, going unbeaten in their last four matches with two wins and two draws. On 25th November, Derek McInnes’ side earned a hard-fought point from a goalless draw away at relegation rivals Ross County. A stroke of luck then helped Kilmarnock beat Hearts 1-0 at home, with the only goal coming via an early own goal from defender William Dennis.
The Reds followed that up with an impressive 1-0 victory away at Aberdeen, sealed through Danny Watson’s injury time strike to inflict only a second league loss this term on Jim Goodwin’s side. Most recently, Kilmarnock fought back from behind to shock reigning champions Celtic 2-1 on 10th December, overturning Matt O’Riley’s opener via an own goal and goal from midfielder Mark Kennedy. With five points now separating Kilmarnock from the automatic relegation place, McInnes will be looking for his resilient side to build momentum during a congested festive period.
St Johnstone form analysis
St. Johnstone have shown signs of improvement in their recent Scottish Premiership form under new manager Barry Ferguson, earning two wins and a draw from their last four matches. On 3rd December, the Saints took a shock first half lead at home to Celtic before eventually succumbing 3-1 to the reigning champions. This was followed up by a hard fought 1-0 home victory over St Mirren courtesy of Callum Hendry’s injury time strike. St. Johnstone then fought back to earn a creditable 1-1 away draw against Motherwell, equalizing late on through Miguel Biereth after falling behind to an own goal. Most recently on 16th December, the Saints claimed an impressive 1-0 home win over Hibernian thanks to Graham Carey’s second half goal.
So St. Johnstone have looked more stubborn to beat of late and pose an increasing threat on counter attacks. Maintaining this defensive solidarity and clinical edge could help transform their league position.
