Expect a tense final: Writers’ predictions
There’s a lot to be said for muscle memory - but maybe not enough on this occasion.
St Johnstone know Hampden as a winning venue - three times in just four months - not to mention beating Hibs on as many occasions when the sides have met this season too. But Jack Ross’ side erased their recent Hampden woes fairly emphatically against Dundee United in the semifinal - and seem to have gained momentum from it.
The Covid uncertainties around Callum Davidson’s
squad throw things up in the air a little more and while both have solid defences, Hibs are a much more potent attacking threat with Nisbet, Boyle and Doidge.
Glenn Middleton could be useful for the Saints alongside Ali Mccann’s industry but that power at Hibs’ disposal will possibly edge it in their favour, and quite possibly after extra-time too. St Johnstone 1 Hibs 2 (aet)
Matthew Elder
I expect a tense final given what is at stake for each club - both in terms of capping off a historic campaign and potentially setting themselves up for an extended European run next season.
Hibs have had their difficulties against Saints this season, losing home and away in the league on top of the League Cup semi-final defeat.
But Jack Ross’ side have answered some big questions in recent weeks - winning at Pittodrie to clinch third place and getting over their semi-final hurdle in fairly convincing manner.
They have the stronger of two squads, momentum is with them, and with their front men all in good scoring form, I think they’ll edge it.
St Johnstone 1 Hibs 2
Andrew Smith
There just seems to be a direction of travel with these two teams, terrific finalists that have pushed to their very limits in their season returns.
It all seems to be fitting into place for Hibs on the pitch . In contrast, the Covid shadow over Saints seems to have dulled their lustre. The Perth side haven’t come within one game of a remarkable cup double without being hardy though.
However, the merry dance of Jack Ross’ forwards against opponents that have hardly trained in the build-up, should shatter the glass slipper for Callum Davidson and his players in their Cinderalla story.
St Johnstone 1 Hibs 3