St. Johnstone vs Hibernian Prediction, Match Preview & Betting Tips, January 2, 2025

The eagerly awaited Premiership game between St. Johnstone and Hibernian is all set for January 2, 2025, at McDiarmid Park in Perth. St. Johnstone is struggling at the bottom of the league table, positioned in 12th place. They are surely keen to change their luck after a series of losses. In contrast, Hibernian stands in 7th place, buoyed by a recent 1-0 win over Kilmarnock.

St. Johnstone’s form lately has been worrying, with one draw and four losses in their last five games. Their defensive issues are obvious, highlighted by a tight 1-2 loss to Dundee United and a harsh 4-0 defeat to Celtic. On the flip side, Hibernian is playing with confidence under the astute leadership of David Gray. They have won four of their last five games, showing they’re in solid form.

This match is intriguing as both sides have their reasons: St. Johnstone wants redemption, while Hibernian aims to continue their strong start to the new year. In their recent clashes, Hibernian has been dominant, including a 2-0 win in their last meeting.

St. Johnstone vs Hibernian Prediction & Betting Tip

• Prediction: Under 2.5 goals
• Odds: 2.1
• Suggested Bet: Under 2.5 goals

Expect the match to be more about tactics, indicating it might be low-scoring. St. Johnstone is likely to focus on tightening their defense. At the same time, Hibernian sometimes struggles to score consistently, making under 2.5 goals a solid bet. The odds support this view, hinting at a game focused more on defense, much like Hibernian’s recent 1-0 victory over Kilmarnock, where discipline and defensive strategy shone over attacking prowess.

St. Johnstone vs Hibernian Odds

Given their better league spot and recent form, Hibernian is somewhat favored. St. Johnstone, despite playing at home, seems to face an uphill battle, reflected in the higher odds for their win. Meanwhile, the betting odds suggest there’s some hope for a draw, hinting at St. Johnstone’s potential for a strong showing.

Given the current trends, bets on under 2.5 goals look promising, offering good value for bettors.

St. Johnstone Team Analysis

St. Johnstone Recent Performance

Recent games have been rough for St. Johnstone, especially in December. Their heavy 0-4 defeat to Celtic and a close 1-2 loss to Dundee United highlight their struggles. This adds to a series of four losses with just one draw. Still, they’ve shown they can be a threat, like earlier in the season when they beat Kilmarnock 1-0. Their defense has been shaky, conceding 12 goals in five games. Matches often see both teams scoring, showing weak spots at both ends.

St. Johnstone Key Players

• Benjamin Mbunga Kimpioka leads as the top scorer with six goals.
• Mackenzie Kirk and Nicky Clark offer additional attacking options, needing strong performances to break their recent scoring slump.
• In midfield, a returning Cameron MacPherson could bring the much-needed strategy and strength.
• The defense relies on Kyle Cameron and Bozo Mikulic to tighten what’s been historically weak.
• Aaron Essel provides critical support in midfield transitions.
• Joshua Rae, the goalkeeper, will be crucial in stopping further goals, pivotal in recent struggles.

St. Johnstone Suspensions & Injuries

Managing injuries and suspensions is vital for St. Johnstone’s management. Their hopes rise with the return of players like Uche Ikpeazu, fresh from knee surgery and aligning well with their January schedule. Sam McClelland, recovering from an Achilles issue, may also be back early January, a big relief for their defensive plans.

• Cameron MacPherson is recovering from a hip injury and might be back at the year’s start.
• Beyond these, the squad is near full strength with others fit and ready.

St. Johnstone Tactics and Formation

St. Johnstone might stick to a cautious setup, probably in a defensive lineup to counter Hibernian’s threats. Control in midfield will be key, with Sprangler and Smith holding possession to slow Hibernian’s attacks. Essel and Raymond might focus on using the wings to create chances. Past games hint they’ll focus on defensive setups, with strategic counter-attacks, especially against a strong Hibernian side. Being disciplined, especially in set-pieces, could be their game-changer.

Hibernian Team Analysis

Hibernian Recent Performance

Hibernian approaches this match on a positive trend, comfortably in 7th place. Strong wins against teams like Kilmarnock and Aberdeen show their form, with only a loss against Celtic revealing areas for improvement. Despite some slips, they control games well, often taking charge through midfield mastery. Their games usually highlight smart possession, leading to thoughtful goals.

Hibernian Key Players

• Nicky Cadden is crucial in attack, as their top scorer.
• Junior Hoilett’s creativity and movement bolster Hibernian’s attack, working with Martin Boyle, whose vibrant play is vital.
• In midfield, Josh Campbell is key for control and passing excellence.
• Jack Iredale and Rocky Bushiri anchor the defense well.
• Jordan Smith, the goalie, shows strong form, key for clean sheets.
• Nectarios Triantis is also vital facing St. Johnstone’s strong midfield.

Hibernian Suspensions & Injuries

For Hibernian, managing injuries will be crucial. They have several players with fitness concerns.

• Kieron Bowie is dealing with a hamstring problem, hoping to return early in the month.
• Rudi Molotnikov’s groin strain makes him doubtful.
• Marvin Ekpiteta is out with a thigh injury until mid-January, complicating defense.
• Mykola Kukharevych and Joe Newell are both fighting their own injury battles.

Hibernian Tactics and Formation

Hibernian often plays aggressive, focusing on both resilience in midfield and strength on the wings. Midfielders like Campbell and Triantis will help defensively while pushing play forward. Their speed, especially when transitioning and using wide areas, might expose St. Johnstone’s defensive issues. Under David Gray, Hibernian focuses on patient build-ups and precise pressing, exploiting spaces and stressing defenses. The expected good weather may encourage this flexible, dynamic playstyle.

St. Johnstone vs Hibernian Head-to-Head Statistics

Head-to-head, Hibernian has the upper hand, winning their last encounter 2-0 against St. Johnstone. This fits a broader pattern of Hibernian’s strength in these matches, winning three of their last five meetings. St. Johnstone last won 2-1 on April 6, 2024, a rare victory in their closely-fought rivalry.

These derby games usually focus on tactics rather than goals, with most ending with fewer than 2.5 goals.

Venue and Weather

McDiarmid Park in Perth provides a lively setting for this Premiership clash. The stadium, with a capacity of 10,696, offers an intimate backdrop for passionate fan support. The match day weather promises clear skies, with unusually warm temperatures for January in Scotland at 30.66°C. Moderate wind speeds around 7.14 m/s create ideal conditions for play.

Spectators should prep for unexpected warmth, with conditions likely to impact hydration and game pace. This could aid quick transitions and spirited play, setting up an exciting, uninterrupted football match, free from weather issues. A thrilling football display makes for a great New Year’s kickoff.