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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
Martin McMillan

Craig Levein highlights St Johnstone fitness mission after Celtic defeat

Craig Levein was disappointed by the turnaround but encouraged by his side’s overall display as St Johnstone lost 3-1 to Celtic.

The hosts went in front after a goal-line scramble ended with Diallang Jaiyesimi being credited with the opening strike.

However, the Parkhead club improved in the second 45 minutes, with substitutes Mikey Johnston and Oh Hyeon-gyu making an impact.

First, a great strike from the Scotland international brought Brendan Rodgers' men level before an even better finish from Matt O'Riley put the visitors in front.

James Forrest finished the result off with a late goal after a last-gasp save from Joe Hart but Levein still found plenty of positives.

“We did a lot of good things and defended really well,” he said.

“We’ve lost to two wonderful pieces of skill. Those two goals were like a kick in the whatsits. The last goal I’m not bothered up – we were gung-ho by then.”

 “One of the things I’m confident we can improve is our fitness. We tired a bit in the second half, which is understandable.

"There’s a lot of concentration needed to cut off passing lines, close spaces and defend the box in the right areas.

"That’s tiring. But I know we can get fitter – and that will help us in our quest to climb the table.”

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