Wright wants a Saints revival

“We had opportunities and we were wasteful”

St Johnstone manager Tommy Wright has told his players they must start to take their chances.

The Perth men have taken a solitary point from a possible nine since their spot-kick Europa League qualification exit to FC Minsk and were second best to a rejuvenated Hibs in Saturday’s Scottish Premiership contest.

Stevie May’s 25-yard shot gave home side St Johnstone a great platform to build on, only for Paul Heffernan to draw the visitors level 10 minutes from the break before James Collins wonthe points for Hibs just shy of the hour.

The 2-1 defeat was a sore one and an aggrieved Wright said: “We started very well but in the middle part of the first half we allowed them back into the game.

“The second goal was a poor goal to lose and we lost a bit of shape and discipline after that.

“Hibs, after going 2-1 up, were probably the better side for the rest of the second half.

“But we had opportunities and we were wasteful, particularly in the last third, and our final ball and decision- making let us down when we were on top of the game.”

Easter Road manager Pat Fenlon feels confidence is now running high among his players.

Fenlon said: “I’m delighted for the players. We’re on a half decent run and we need to keep that going and back it up next week with a home win.

“I’m pleased for both the attackers. It wasn’t James’s best game, but I said to him when he was coming off he’d worked tremendously hard, which he does most weeks, and he’s got a little break with the goal.

“Heffernan is just a natural finisher and he’s calm in front of goal and when you have two attackers scoring goals and you win games it’s a decent afternoon.”