Bookies make Saints title favourites

Jan 2 2009 by Gordon Bannerman, Perthshire Advertiser Friday

ST Johnstone begin the New Year as Betdirect’s overwhelming 4/5 favourites to claim the First Division title.

According to bookmakers, Dunfermline are their most dangerous challengers – Jaxx.com price them at 5/1, while Livingston are a 8/1 choice with Victor Chandler.

All three fixtures between Ross County and the Saints have ended with the same 2-1 outcome this term, twice in St Johnstone’s favour, the other a League Cup encounter back in July when the Staggies emerged victorious.

Another 2-1 win for St Johnstone at Victoria Park is rated an 8/1 shot by Blue Square, while Jenningsbet post an attractive 10/1 against a 2-0 success for the league leaders.

For punters who suspect that St Johnstone will dominate from the kick off, Boylesports offer 13/5 about them leading at the end of both halves, although more circumspect souls may prefer the 9/2 offered by Stan James for the Saints to win following a drawn first half.

Given the previous outcomes, another three goals looks probable, although some fans may believe one will be enough this time around; a 1-0 win for St Johnstone is priced at 6/1 by Victor Chandler.

Odds by www.betrescue.com