St. Johnstone Football Club, based in Perth, Scotland, is one of the oldest and most respected clubs in Scottish football. Established in 1884, the club has built a reputation as a resilient and determined side with a strong sense of community and tradition. Known as “The Saints”, St. Johnstone has competed in Scotland’s top leagues for over a century and continues to be a competitive force, particularly in cup competitions.
While the club may not have the same high profile as some of the Glasgow giants, its achievements—especially in the past two decades—have made history and earned admiration across the country.
Foundations and Rise Through the Ranks
St. Johnstone began playing competitive football in the late 19th century and joined the Scottish Football League in 1911. The club experienced ups and downs for many decades, fluctuating between divisions, but always maintained a loyal fanbase and a fighting spirit.
Their home ground, McDiarmid Park, opened in 1989 and remains one of the most modern stadiums among Scotland’s provincial clubs. With a capacity of over 10,000, it has hosted both domestic and European fixtures, becoming the beating heart of football in Perth.
Domestic Achievements and Major Trophies
St. Johnstone’s most glorious achievements have come in cup competitions—especially in the 21st century. The club’s first major trophy came in the 2013–14 season, when they lifted the Scottish Cup for the first time in their history. The Saints defeated Dundee United 2–0 in the final, an emotional moment that sparked celebrations throughout Perthshire.
Even more impressively, St. Johnstone made history in the 2020–21 season, becoming only the fourth club in Scottish history to win both the Scottish Cup and the Scottish League Cup in the same season. Under manager Callum Davidson, they first claimed the League Cup by defeating Livingston 1–0 in March 2021, and then followed it with another Scottish Cup triumph in May 2021, overcoming Hibernian 1–0.
This remarkable cup double was unprecedented for a club of their size and cemented their legacy as one of Scotland’s most successful clubs outside the traditional “big two.”
Total Goals and League Performances
Over their long history, St. Johnstone has scored well over 6,000 goals in official league and cup competitions. Their goal-scoring record has featured legendary names like John Brogan, the club’s all-time leading scorer, who netted 140 goals in competitive matches during his time in the 1970s and 1980s.
In the Scottish Premiership, where they have been a regular fixture since earning promotion in 2009, the Saints have delivered consistent performances, often finishing in the top half of the table. They qualified for European competitions several times, including appearances in the UEFA Europa League qualifiers, giving fans in Perth a taste of continental football.
Club Culture and Support
St. Johnstone’s strength lies in its tight-knit community and passionate, loyal fanbase. While the club doesn’t draw massive crowds compared to larger Scottish teams, the support is unwavering. The Saints are known for punching above their weight, often challenging and defeating more financially powerful clubs.
The club also maintains a strong youth development program, regularly producing talent that contributes to the first team or moves on to bigger clubs in Scotland and England.
Looking Ahead
As of recent seasons, St. Johnstone continues to compete in the Scottish Premiership and remains a respected opponent. Their incredible cup successes have set a new standard for the club and inspired a new generation of fans. With experienced leadership and a deep-rooted identity, the Saints are poised to remain competitive and capable of future surprises.
Final Words
St. Johnstone F.C. may not be the flashiest name in Scottish football, but it is undoubtedly one of the most admirable. With over 6,000 goals scored and three major trophies lifted in just under a decade, the Saints have carved out a legacy of determination, resilience, and unexpected glory.
They are, without a doubt, the quiet giants of Perth—forever proud, forever competitive.
