Tommy Wright demands more from St Johnstone players despite victory over Falkirk

Posted Wednesday, July 25, 2018 by PA

St Johnstone boss Tommy Wright accepted there was still room for improvement after seeing his team pick up a 1-0 win over Falkirk in the Betfred Cup.

Stefan Scougall’s well-worked goal in the first half proved enough for Saints to see off their Championship visitors in a tight game of few opportunities.

The hosts were deserved winners, but for all their possession were unable to fashion regular chances – something which left Wright frustrated despite being satisfied with the three points which moved his side top of Group B.

“I think we easily deserved to win the game,” he said. “I would have liked to have seen more chances created from the possession we had, but overall we weren’t really under any threat until the last minute when we almost conceded a stupid goal, which we wouldn’t have deserved.

“We were in total control and I’m happy to get another clean sheet, and delighted with the goal – it was an excellent goal.

“We just need to improve that last little bit.”

Falkirk were competitive throughout the game but only had one real clear-cut opportunity, with Scott Harrison denied by Zander Clark from the last kick of the game.

Although they are now in pole position to qualify for the next stage of the competition, Wright is keen to see his players be braver on the pitch.

He said: “We have tried to work on things all pre-season and I think you can see that.

“We are trying to play a little bit more from the back. I would like to see us a bit braver in possession in the second half. I’d like to see more control at times.”

Paul Hartley, whose side are almost certainly now out of the cup, said: “I was pleased with the team tonight overall.

“We lost a really cheap goal but started both halves really well.

“We maybe lacked a cutting edge but overall I was happy with the players tonight. It was better than the last two performances, so gradually we are getting there.”