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Levein’s Tactical Mastery Propels Saints Up the Table
St Johnstone‘s remarkable turnaround under Craig Levein reached new heights as Graham Carey’s second-half stunner secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Hibernian at McDiarmid Park. The Krikya team analyzes how this crucial win lifts Saints from 11th to 8th in the Scottish Premiership, marking their third victory in seven matches since Levein took charge last month.
Match Breakdown: How Saints Outmaneuvered Hibs
Youth and Experience Combine in Levein’s Lineup
Levein demonstrated his tactical flexibility by handing 16-year-old Fran Franczak his first senior start, pairing the youngster with Ukrainian midfielder Max Kucheriavyi in a bold attacking move. This decision proved inspired as the fresh legs caused constant problems for Hibs’ defense throughout the match.
Hibs manager Nick Montgomery responded with his own changes, bringing in Lewis Miller and Jimmy Jeggo, but the visitors struggled to find rhythm against St Johnstone‘s organized defensive structure.
Key Moments That Shaped the Game
The match turned in the 57th minute when Dylan Levitt’s costly error gifted possession to Carey just outside the box. The Irish midfielder made no mistake, unleashing a thunderous strike that cannoned in off the post – a goal worthy of winning any match.
Earlier, Saints had two strong penalty appeals waved away and saw Kucheriavyi denied multiple times by Hibs keeper David Marshall, who kept the scoreline respectable with several crucial saves.
Tactical Analysis: What Made the Difference?
St Johnstone’s Defensive Organization
According to Krikya football analyst James Wilson: “Levein has implemented a compact 4-4-2 system that’s incredibly difficult to break down. Their defensive shape was near-perfect today, limiting Hibs to just one meaningful attempt in the first half.”
Hibs’ Attacking Struggles
Hibernian’s normally dangerous front three of Boyle, Youan, and Vente were kept unusually quiet, managing just two shots on target all game. The visitors’ build-up play was consistently disrupted by St Johnstone‘s aggressive pressing, particularly in midfield.
Manager Reactions: Contrasting Perspectives
Craig Levein’s Satisfaction
“We controlled large portions of the game and created several good opportunities,” Levein told Krikya. “Marshall made four world-class saves, but our defensive discipline ensured one goal was enough today.”
Nick Montgomery’s Frustration
The Hibs boss admitted: “We lacked creativity in the final third and didn’t do enough to test their goalkeeper. At 1-0 down, we needed more urgency but couldn’t break their defensive block.”
Looking Ahead: Crucial Fixtures on the Horizon
St Johnstone face a tough test against Rangers at Ibrox on Wednesday night, while Hibernian travel to Ross County this weekend. Based on current form, Krikya predicts:
- St Johnstone could climb as high as 6th with positive results in their next two matches
- Hibernian risk falling out of top-six contention if they don’t address their away form
Final Thoughts: A Season-Defining Victory for Saints
This 1-0 triumph represents more than just three points for St Johnstone – it’s evidence of a team transformed under Levein’s guidance. From relegation candidates to mid-table security in just seven matches, the Perth side are writing one of the season’s most compelling turnaround stories.
For Hibernian, this disappointing result raises questions about their consistency and ability to challenge for European places. As the Premiership enters its busy festive period, both teams face crucial tests that could define their seasons.
What did you think of St Johnstone’s performance? Share your views with the Krikya community below!
