Saint Johnstone faced a heartbreaking 2-1 defeat against Hearts at McDiarmid Park on February 23, 2025, leaving the home side reeling from their recent run of form. The match was steeped in tension, showcasing moments of brilliance alongside agonizing near-misses, emphasizing the fine margins often seen within Scottish Premiership clashes.
Hearts took the lead thanks to Belgian striker Elton Kabangu, who scored twice throughout the encounter. His first goal came at the 36-minute mark following an expertly placed cross from Lawrence Shankland. The Jambos tested the VAR early on, and after verifying the positioning of Kabangu, the goal stood, sending their traveling supporters wild with excitement.
Saints, stirred by the setback, responded with determination and soon leveled the match just eight minutes after halftime. Adama Sidibeh, taking advantage of Graham Carey's cross, headed home with precision, breaking through the hearts' defense to pulse optimism back through the home crowd.
Just as the momentum appeared to shift, Hearts struck back decisively. A deft through ball from Shankland again found Kabangu just moments later, and the forward’s second goal—executed with poise—restored the visitors' lead.
Despite St Johnstone having several opportunities to equalize, including strong chances created by Sam Curtis and Drey Wright, the Saints were thwarted at every turn. Curtis had his header saved heroically by Hearts' Craig Gordon, who underscored his own role as the visitors' lifeline throughout the match. There was even the frustration of having another goal ruled out due to offside when Drey Wright’s effort flicked off the crossbar and landed inside the net, only to be met with the referee's raised flag.
With time running out, the Saints pushed forward for one last chance. They were awarded free kicks and set-pieces, but each attempt to draw level slipped agonizingly wide or fell short against the resolute Hearts defense. Graham Carey nearly managed to haul St Johnstone back to parity with ten minutes remaining, but his effort from Duke-McKenna's free kick trickled past the post.
The match concluded with Saints unfurling another disappointment, having shown plenty of heart but unable to convert their chances. Fans remained vocal, applauding their team's efforts even as Hearts claimed the full three points and marched home with their heads held high.
Next up, St Johnstone will face Ross County at McDiarmid Park, aiming to bounce back from this narrow setback. With the attendance recorded at 5,577, the support remains avid as the club looks to regain form on home turf.