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St Johnstone and Dundee will face off in a high-stakes Scottish Premiership encounter at McDiarmid Park on Sunday, January 5, 2025, at 3 PM UK time. This match is crucial for both teams, with St Johnstone rooted to the bottom of the table and Dundee looking to pull further away from the relegation zone.

St Johnstone, currently 12th with 15 points, are desperate to end their winless streak, while Dundee, in ninth place with 22 points, aim to bounce back from a disappointing 2-1 defeat to rivals Dundee United. The reverse fixture earlier this season saw St Johnstone claim a 2-1 victory, adding an extra layer of intrigue to this clash.

Team Analysis

St Johnstone
St Johnstone’s season has been a struggle, with the team failing to secure a win in their last seven matches (D2 L5). However, their recent 1-1 draw against Hibernian, despite being reduced to 10 men, showcased their resilience and fighting spirit. Manager Simo Valakari has praised his team’s effort levels, but the lack of wins has left them 12 points adrift of safety.

The Saints’ home form has been particularly concerning, with just one draw and three losses in their last four matches at McDiarmid Park. Defensive frailties have been a recurring issue, with the team conceding 36 goals in 21 games. However, their 2-1 victory over Dundee earlier in the season provides a glimmer of hope.

Dundee
Dundee’s campaign has been inconsistent, with the team hovering just above the relegation zone. Despite boasting the fourth-best offensive record in the league (30 goals scored), their defensive record is the third-worst (36 goals conceded). This imbalance has been a major factor in their struggles.

Tony Docherty’s side come into this match on the back of a 2-1 defeat to Dundee United, extending their winless run in derbies to eight games. Away form has also been a concern, with just one win in their last 10 matches on the road. However, Dundee will be eager to avenge their earlier defeat to St Johnstone and secure a vital three points.

Head-to-Head and Previous Encounters

St Johnstone have had the upper hand in recent meetings, winning three of the last five encounters. The reverse fixture earlier this season ended in a 2-1 victory for the Saints, with Nicky Clark and Benjamin Mbunga-Kimpioka on the scoresheet. Dundee’s last win against St Johnstone came in March 2024, highlighting the challenge they face.

Team News

St Johnstone
St Johnstone will be without suspended midfielder Jason Holt and injured striker Uche Ikpeazu. Cameron MacPherson and Sam McClelland are also sidelined, leaving Simo Valakari with limited options. Jack Sanders and Bozo Mikulic are expected to start in defence, while Adama Sidibeh and Nicky Clark will lead the attack.

Dundee
Dundee’s defensive woes are compounded by injuries to Ziyad Larkeche, Jordan McGhee, Billy Koumetio, Antonio Portales, and Joe Shaughnessy. Ryan Astley, Clark Robertson, and Luke Graham are likely to form a back three, with Lyall Cameron and Mohammad Sylla anchoring the midfield.

Prediction

Goal.mu/Mauri.bet predicts: St Johnstone 1-1 Dundee

This match is likely to be a tightly contested affair, with both teams desperate for points. St Johnstone’s resilience and home advantage could see them secure a draw, but Dundee’s attacking threat means they are unlikely to leave empty-handed.

Betting Tips

• Match Result: Draw
• Both Teams to Score: Yes
• Over/Under 2.5 Goals: Under 2.5
• Anytime Goalscorer: Nicky Clark (St Johnstone)

Hot Stat

St Johnstone have failed to win any of their last seven Scottish Premiership matches (D2 L5), their longest winless run of the season.

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