FONDFAREWELL
End of an era on final day of the season
Steve Brown reflected on the “end of an era”when addressing supporters with an emotional farewell before Sunday’s game against Livingston.
Brown is stepping down as chairman of the Perth club after 12 years in the role and took to the Mcdiarmid Park pitch to reflect and thank all who have been part of the journey.
The well-known Perthshire businessman has helped steer Saints to European football, three major cup triumphs and non-stop Premiership football.
“It’s the end of an era for me,” he said. “It’s the end of a journey. An incredible journey.
“The football gods have certainly shone on us and on me in particular.
“We’ve had three managers who have all qualified for Europe and one who went beyond Callum
Davidson - by delivering the cup double.
“I’ve just appointed my fourth and final manager - Macca - and I’ve told him he’s not under any pressure.
“I’m sure he will be successful. If he’s not, it has absolutely nothing to do with me!”
Brown said there were too many people to thank, but showed appreciation to father Geoff, his family, all of the “dedicated”staff and vicechairman Charlie Fraser, who is also stepping down.
He also paid tribute to the fans and, in particular, the Fair City Unity group for the“energy, atmosphere and colour”they bring on match days.
Brown wished the new board well moving forward and, no doubt, will be back at Mcdiarmid Park as a supporter himself.
Murray Davidson brought his 14-year St Johnstone career to an emotional close on Sunday.
And the loyal midfielder, rightfully regarded as a club legend after well over 400 appearances, admitted he will never, ever forget the reception he received when bowing out.
Davidson, who was handed the last few minutes against Livingston, was given a guard of honour in front of the East Stand after the full-time whistle.
“I can’t thank the people of Perth and the fans enough for the reception I got on Sunday,” Davidson said.
“It will stay with me forever. From the bottom of my heart, I’m so thankful.”
The love and support Davidson has received from both the fans and the people of Perth since joining way back in 2009 holds a special place in his heart.
“I remember the day myself and Dave Mackay signed,” he smiled. “It has absolutely flown in. Honestly, there are two or three main reasons why I’ve stayed at St Johnstone.
“There were times when I had the chance to leave to go to different countries or teams in Scotland.
“But the club has been brilliant with me. Steve Brown and Geoff Brown have treated me with respect and have been good with me.
“Every manager was good with me.
There were times I could have left but I felt I had to show loyalty back.
“A second reason is the people in Perth. It doesn’t matter if I’m going for a coffee, having a pint, food or doing the school run, over the last 14 years the people of Perth have been unbelievable.
“When I moved up I was 21 and knew nobody. I’ve made so many friends and that has come from everyone being so welcoming. That will stick with me for the rest of my life.”
Cup wins and European adventures
obviously rank high in Davidson’s most cherished memories.
But he said: “The one that probably meant the most was staying in the league against Inverness. A lot of people will say ‘why’? But I’ve been at the club so long and knew exactly what it meant if we were to get relegated. It meant so much to me.
“When I first signed, the aim was to establish ourselves. I’m so proud to have played the 14 years in the top-flight and been part of the most successful period in the club’s history.”