In a stunning season opener, St Johnstone triumphed over Kilmarnock with a thrilling 5-3 victory on Sunday, defying pre-match skepticism from pundits like Kris Boyd. With Simo Valakari at the helm, the match delivered a spectacle that BBC Sportsound's Allan Preston hailed as an early contender for game of the season.

The match saw St Johnstone, fresh from their Scottish Championship success, take the lead early with a goal from Josh Fowler, who marked his return to the Premiership after four years. Despite dominating for large parts of the game, they found themselves trailing 3-2 at one point. However, Valakari's tactical changes, including the introduction of three attacking substitutes, turned the tide in their favor.

Key moments included:

• Jason Holt's own goal, which leveled the score.
• Kai Fotheringham netting a fierce winner, sealing the match for St Johnstone.

Valakari's approach emphasized a more solid and streetwise style of play compared to last season, reflecting his desire to avoid naive football that could lead to losses. Despite concerns over squad depth and summer signings, St Johnstone showcased resilience and a fighting spirit, crucial for their aspirations in the Premiership.

Valakari acknowledged the challenges ahead, stating, "We are not getting carried away, we know where we are and what we need to improve." This victory sets a promising tone for St Johnstone's league campaign.