Scottish PremiershipMatch Previews

Hibernian vs St Johnstone: Scottish Premiership stats & head-to-head

about 1 year agoGB
Hibernian vs St Johnstone: Scottish Premiership stats & head-to-headSource: bbc.co.uk
The Scottish Premiership returns following the international break, featuring a key match-up at Easter Road Stadium as third-placed Hibernian host bottom-of-the-table St Johnstone. This clash holds significant weight for both teams as Hibs aim to solidify their position in the top six, while St Johnstone continue their fight against relegation.

Key Insights

Team Changes: Hibernian bring Myko Kuharevich into the starting XI, replacing Kieron Bowie. St Johnstone make two changes, with Victor Griffith and Jonathan Svedberg starting ahead of Adama Sidibeh and Stephen Duke-McKenna.

League Standings: Hibernian sit comfortably in 3rd place with 44 points, while St Johnstone are in 12th with 26 points.

Form: Hibs are enjoying a strong run, especially at home, having won their last four league games at Easter Road. St Johnstone have struggled on the road, winning only one of their last nine away matches.

Head-to-Head: The teams have an even historical record over 61 matches (22 wins each, 17 draws). However, Hibs are unbeaten in the last three encounters (W2 D1).

Why this matters: Crucial points are on the line for Hibs' European qualification ambitions and St Johnstone's survival hopes. Hibs' strong home form faces a test against a Saints side desperate for points.

In-Depth Analysis

Match Context

Returning from an international break, Hibernian look to extend their impressive four-game winning streak at home in the Scottish Premiership – their best run since 2018. They currently occupy 3rd place. In contrast, St Johnstone find themselves at the foot of the table, battling relegation. Their away form is a concern, with only one victory in their last nine league trips.

Tactical Setup & Team News

Hibernian manager David Gray opts for a 3-4-1-2 formation, making one change by starting Myko Kuharevich alongside Martin Boyle upfront, supported by Junior Hoilett. St Johnstone, managed by Simo Valakari, set up in a 3-4-2-1 formation. They've introduced Victor Griffith and Jonathan Svedberg into attacking midfield roles behind lone striker Michael Kirk.

Statistical Insights

Hibernian have been involved in high-scoring affairs, reflected in their league-leading stats for both points gained from losing positions (13) and points dropped from winning positions (20). St Johnstone have struggled defensively, conceding 54 goals this season, while Hibs have netted 45. Historically, matches between these two are closely contested, but Hibs have had the edge recently, winning two and drawing one of the last three league meetings.

Potential Impact

A Hibs win would strengthen their hold on third place. A win or even a draw for St Johnstone would be a vital boost in their fight to avoid the drop, especially given their poor away record.

FAQs

Q: Who is starting for Hibernian?

A: Hibernian's key starters include J. Smith (GK), L. Miller, R. Bushiri, J. Iredale (DEF), C. Cadden, N. Triantis, D. Levitt, J. Obita (MID), J. Hoilett (AM), M. Boyle (C), and M. Kuharevich (ST).

Q: What's at stake in this match?

A: Hibernian are pushing to secure a top-six finish and potentially European football, while St Johnstone are fighting to avoid relegation from the Scottish Premiership.

Key Takeaways

Monitor Hibs' Home Dominance: Can Hibernian maintain their strong winning streak at Easter Road against a struggling Saints side?

Saints' Away Challenge: St Johnstone desperately need points, but overcoming their poor away form will be crucial.

Impact on Table: The result will directly affect the race for the top six and the battle at the bottom of the league table.

Key Players: Watch for Hibs' attacking threats like Boyle and Kuharevich, and how St Johnstone's defence copes.

Discussion

Hibs have been strong at home, but St Johnstone are fighting for survival. Can the Saints cause an upset at Easter Road?

*Do you think Hibs will continue their home winning streak, or will St Johnstone grab crucial points? Let us know your predictions!*

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Sources & References

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