Simo Valakari Vows Fearless St Johnstone Will Fight for Great Escape Survival

St Johnstone Boss Vows "Fearless" Relegation Fight After Shock Celtic Win
By John McGarry | Updated: 21:40 BST, 6 April 2025

St Johnstone manager Simo Valakari declared his team will battle relegation “without fear” after a stunning 1-0 victory over Celtic reignited their survival hopes.

Daniels Balodis’ fourth-minute header secured a historic win—Saints’ first against Celtic since 2016—narrowing the gap to 11th-placed Dundee to five points. Despite Kilmarnock and Dundee both winning on Saturday, Valakari urged his players to embrace the underdog spirit, and they delivered a defiant performance at McDiarmid Park.

[Image: Daniels Balodis heads in the winning goal against Celtic. Caption: Balodis’ early header stunned Celtic and lifted St Johnstone’s survival hopes.]

“In a relegation battle, you need unexpected results,” said Valakari. “We walked into this game knowing everyone had written us off. Now, we play fearlessly. This win changes everything.”

The Finnish coach praised his team’s resilience after a dismal 3-0 loss to Hibs the previous week. Goalkeeper Andy Fisher made crucial late saves to preserve the lead, including a stunning stop from a close-range Celtic effort.

[Image: Andy Fisher celebrates a save. Caption: Keeper Andy Fisher’s heroics sealed the clean sheet.]

“The players showed heart,” Valakari added. “Fisher was world-class, and the fans made it feel like a fortress. We’ve been hurting, but today proves we’re fighters.”

With six games remaining, Valakari acknowledged the uphill battle but insisted survival is possible. “We’re still favorites to go down, but this win gives us belief. The fight isn’t over.”

[Image: Valakari celebrates on the touchline. Caption: Valakari’s tactical setup frustrated Celtic’s attack.]

St Johnstone’s next match against Dundee United could prove pivotal. “We’ll prepare with the same fearlessness,” Valakari vowed. “Football is unpredictable—why not us?”

The victory, fueled by Balodis’ early goal and a disciplined defense, has injected hope into a season once deemed lost. As the final whistle blew, Saints’ players and fans erupted, daring to dream of another great escape.

Key Points:

• St Johnstone’s first win over Celtic in nine years.
• Balodis’ header and Fisher’s saves secure crucial three points.
• Valakari: “We play without fear—the fight continues.”

[Image: St Johnstone fans celebrate. Caption: Home supporters roared their team to a landmark victory.]

With momentum shifting, St Johnstone’s survival bid enters a thrilling new chapter.