St Johnstone make it back-to-back wins with comeback victory at Dundee

Posted Sunday, October 27, 2024 by PA

St Johnstone came from behind to secure their second Premiership win in a row – 2-1 against Dundee at Dens Park.

The Dark Blues took the lead in the first half through skipper Simon Murray, with Saints substitute Graham Carey drawing his side level after the break.

However, St Johnstone snatched all three points thanks to a dramatic last-minute goal from captain Nicky Clark.

Dundee made just one change to the side that beat Motherwell at Fir Park last week with Mo Sylla returning from suspension in place of the injured Scott Fraser.

St Johnstone kept faith with the team that secured victory over Ross County.

New Saints boss Simo Valakari was able to take his place in the dug-out after the Finn’s work permit finally came through this week.

After an even opening to the game, it was the hosts who broke the deadlock in the 12th minute.

Dundee goalkeeper Trevor Carson sent a long kick into the Saints half, with Murray capitalising on defensive hesitancy to lift the ball over opposition goalkeeper Ross Sinclair before gleefully nodding home.

The Dark Blues came close to doubling their advantage shortly afterwards but Ziyad Larkeche’s crisp shot was well saved with his feet by Sinclair.

St Johnstone had an opportunity of their own in the 23rd minute but Jason Holt’s fierce long-range shot fizzed just wide of Carson’s right-hand post.

Saints had an even better chance in the 35th minute when Dundee gave away possession allowing Adama Sidibeh to burst through on goal but Carson was able to snuff out the danger.

The visitors were first to threaten after the break but Carson produced an outstanding save to claw away Benjamin Kimpioka’s header before Matt Smith had another chance but he nodded wide.

However, Saints were finally rewarded for their pressure in the 64th minute when Carey fired an unstoppable low curler from 20 yards past Carson and into the bottom corner.

Dundee finally carved out an opening when Lyall Cameron found sub Scott Tiffoney but the striker’s shot was easily gathered by Sinclair.

Saints had a great chance late on but Lewis Neilson could only direct his header straight at Carson.

However, the Perth men would not be denied and snatched victory in the 90th minute when a Carey corner was headed goalwards by Neilson, with the ball eventually being bundled home from close range by Clark.

There was a lengthy offside VAR check, with referee Kevin Clancy eventually being called over to the pitchside monitor.

Clancy then called Valakari and Dundee boss Tony Docherty together to explain his decision before awarding the goal to send the Saints fans wild again.