MATCH OVERVIEW
The Premiership encounter between St. Johnstone and Hearts is set to be a pivotal match in the Scottish football calendar. As the season unfolds, both teams are eager to secure valuable points that could influence their standings. The match will be held at McDiarmid Park, a venue known for its passionate home support, adding an extra layer of excitement to the fixture.
ODDS ANALYSIS
The average odds for this match suggest a strong leaning towards an away victory for Hearts, with odds of 1.8 compared to St. Johnstone's 4.49. The probability of a draw stands at 3.5. These odds translate to a 55.6% chance of a Hearts win, a 22.2% chance for St. Johnstone, and a 28.6% probability of a draw. Given these figures, Hearts are the favorites, but the potential for an upset or a draw cannot be discounted.
TEAM ANALYSIS
St. Johnstone
- Current Form & Statistics: St. Johnstone have averaged 1.12 goals per game this season, with a possession rate of 52.64%. Their defensive record shows an average of 1.92 goals conceded per match.
- Strengths & Weaknesses: The team has shown resilience in duels, averaging 210.68 per game, but their defensive vulnerabilities are evident with a high number of goals conceded.
- Head-to-Head: Historically, St. Johnstone have struggled against Hearts, which could impact their confidence going into this match.
Hearts
- Current Form & Statistics: Hearts have been more prolific in front of goal, averaging 1.36 goals per game, and maintain a slightly higher possession rate of 53.72%.
- Strengths & Weaknesses: Their offensive capabilities are highlighted by their average of 11.76 shots per game, but they need to tighten their defense, having conceded 1.32 goals on average.
- Head-to-Head: Hearts have a favorable record against St. Johnstone, which could give them a psychological edge.
KEY PLAYERS SPOTLIGHT
St. Johnstone
- Benjamin Kimpioka & Nicky Clark: Both players have scored 6 goals this season, making them key offensive threats.
- Jack Sanders: With 224.71 points, Sanders is a crucial player in defense.
Hearts
- Elton Kabangu: Leading the team with 230.21 points, Kabangu is a vital player in both attack and defense.
- Lawrence Shankland: With 4 goals, Shankland is a consistent goal-scoring threat.
STATISTICAL DEEP DIVE
- Offensive Metrics: Hearts lead in shots per game (11.76) compared to St. Johnstone's 8.84, indicating a more aggressive attacking approach.
- Defensive Metrics: St. Johnstone's higher average of interceptions (45.28) suggests a more proactive defensive strategy.
- Possession & Passing: Hearts' superior passing accuracy and possession could be decisive in controlling the game's tempo.
PREDICTION AND CONCLUSION
Based on the data, Hearts are likely to dominate possession and create more scoring opportunities. St. Johnstone will need to capitalize on set-pieces and counter-attacks to challenge Hearts' defense. The key to victory for Hearts will be maintaining their offensive pressure while minimizing defensive lapses. For St. Johnstone, a disciplined defensive performance and clinical finishing will be essential.
Final Score Prediction: St. Johnstone 1-2 Hearts Half Time Score Prediction: St. Johnstone 0-1 Hearts Both Teams to Score Probability: 60% Over 2.5 Goals Probability: 55%