ST Johnstone edge Linlithgow in League Cup opener
ST Johnstone kicked off their Scottish League Cup campaign with a 2-0 win over Linlithgow at McDiarmid Park on Tuesday. The Championship leaders extended their winning streak to five games and sit 11 points clear at the summit.
What happened on the night?
The Saints dominated much of the match but needed a second-half header from Callum Hendry to break the deadlock. Craig Conway added a late second to seal the points. Manager Stephen Robinson will be satisfied with the display, though he’ll demand better defensive organisation after early pressure from the visitors.
The result follows their last outing-a 1-0 victory over Ayr United on 1 May 2026-keeping their momentum high ahead of the cup run.
Why it matters for ST Johnstone
A strong League Cup start boosts ST Johnstone’s push for Premiership return. With 77 points from 36 games, they lead Partick by 11 points and have already netted 67 while conceding just 25. Their five-game winning run-including a 5-0 drubbing of Cove Rangers-highlights real progress under Robinson.
The group stage offers a chance to build confidence before the league run-in. A deep cup run could ease the pressure as they chase a top-two finish.
What comes next?
ST Johnstone return to League Cup action on Saturday, hosting Dumbarton at McDiarmid Park. Robinson’s side will aim to carry this form into the weekend’s fixture as they target an immediate return to the Premiership.
League standing: 1st in Championship, 77 pts, 22W-11D-3L from 36 games, recent form WWWWW.
