The St Johnstone players have etched their names forever into the club’s history books by qualifying for Europe for the second consecutive year.
Saints’ victory over Motherwell at McDiarmid Park on Sunday, combined with Inverness’s loss against Ross County, ensured that the Perth side finished the SPL season in third place and will once again compete in the Europa League next season.
It is an incredible achievement for manager Steve Lomas and his players and is even more amazing when considering that St Johnstone only took two points from their opening five league matches.
Liam Craig, who was playing his last game for St Johnstone before joining Hibs, signed off in style with one of the best goals of his career, while Nigel Hasselbaink added a second to secure all three points.
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There were joyous scenes at the final whistle as St Johnstone fans rushed on to the pitch to embrace their heroes.
Craig was singled out for special adulation but he insisted that Saints success has been built on the team work ethic and not individual brilliance.
He said: “It is an incredible day for the club. To finish third in the SPL is a magnificent achievement and it was great to be part of it.
“It wasn’t about individuals today, it was about the team and that’s why we have had success at the club.
“When you look back at the season, everyone has chipped in with goals. Everyone has played their part and that’s why we are where we are.”
When asked if he had mixed emotions about helping the team get into Europe and then leaving, Craig smiled and answered: “No, it is good that Hibs are in Europe next season as well. So I will be there anyway.
For full coverage of Saints’ triumph, see Monday’s Courier or try our digital edition.