ST Johnstone secured the William Hill Championship title with a decisive 1-0 victory over Ayr United at Somerset Park, concluding their dominant 2025/26 campaign. This crucial win solidified their position at the top of the table, ensuring their return to the William Hill Premiership next season.

The decisive moment arrived in the 37th minute when Kai Fotheringham expertly finished a slick passing move, guiding home a precise pass from Jason Holt to give St Johnstone the lead. The Saints continued to press, with Ruari Paton denied by a brilliant block from Kevin Holt just before half-time.

In the second half, St Johnstone maintained their attacking momentum, creating further opportunities. Ayr United goalkeeper David Mitchell was forced into strong saves to thwart efforts from both Kai Fotheringham and Josh Fowler, preventing the Saints from extending their advantage.

This victory marked a superb end to the season for St Johnstone, extending their winning streak to five consecutive games. The champions finished the season with an impressive 77 points, a commanding 11 points clear of second-placed Partick Thistle, having led the table since the opening day.

Goalkeeper Toby Steward celebrated a landmark night, setting a new William Hill Championship record with his twentieth clean sheet of the season. Manager Simo Valakari made six changes for the final game, bringing in Liam Smith, Jonathan Svedberg, Stevie Mallan, Taylor Steven, Ruari Paton, and Jack Baird, while Adam Forrester was recalled by Hearts.

Before kick-off, a minute's applause was held for former Ayr United player Quintin "Cutty" Young. Ayr United, under interim head coach John Rankin, made one change from their previous loss to Airdrieonians, with Nick McAllister replacing Ben Summers.