Dreams of Euro football retur n to Perth...
That’s after Joe’s goal downs Hearts
St Johnstone ................. 1 Hearts ........................... 0
Full-back Clive Smith made his first start for the club and impressed manager Tommy Wright Summer plans are being scrapped across the Big County. Passports are being searched out from the back of the drawer.
The possibility of St Johnstone returning to European football is becoming stronger with every week that passes.
And the Perth case for heading to the continent was strengthened on Wednesday night following a deserved and crucial home win against Hearts.
Memories of previous Euro outings remain. Frazer Wright’s boot securing victory away against Rosenborg to Tam Scobbie lashing home a fifth penalty to send Swiss side Luzern tumbling out of the competition.
Saints are fourth in the Scottish Premiership and now five clear of Hearts. Only Hibernian winning the Scottish Cup would rid the team who finish fourth of a Europa League spot.
The McDiarmid club’s focus will not be straying into the summer, however, and more to the Highlands with a test against bottom side Inverness fast approaching on Saturday afternoon.
A player who could get the nod again for that fixture is full-back Clive Smith, who gave Perth fans an indication into the talent that he could possess during the week.
The 19-year-old, on loan from Preston North End and starting his first game for Saints, linked up neatly with Blair Alston down the right flank to leave Tynecastle defenders toiling early on.
Consistent midfielder Alston, from just inside the box, could only find the roof of the net with his prodded attempt.
After a monotonous opening to the game Saints were beginning to make their mark on this important contest.
When Smith’s floated delivery was partially