Livingston WFC suffered their first loss of 2024, with a poor display away to St Johnstone. First-half goals from Elvie McLean and Ellie Cowie secured a 2-0 win for the hosts as Livingston dropped to 3rd in the SWPL 2. 

There was a late change in goal as Schenai Gamrot failed a fitness test before kick-off, allowing Ashley Watson to make her debut for the club. Beth McKay returned to the squad, replacing Lucy Watt in a straight swap.

St Johnstone wasted no time starting off on the front foot, opening the scoring inside four minutes. The Livingston defence were stretched by a good passing move, creating space for the late run of Elvie McLean. The midfielder plucked a cross out of the air and with all the time in the world, placed the ball into the bottom corner to give the Saints the lead.

Things wouldn’t improve for Livingston who really struggled in the first half, with St Johnstone really dominating proceedings. Slack passing and a lack of intensity made it easy for the Perth side to continue putting the pressure on Livingston, leading to the home side doubling their lead. A great piece of play saw McLean turn provider, with an excellent pass threading through Nicole Carter whose cutback was met by Ellie Cowie to double their lead.

Half time gave Livingston a chance to freshen things up, but despite three changes being made, the away side still struggled to create clear chances. Substitute Ashley Elizabeth was lively coming off the bench but Livi were unable to break down the stubborn St Johnstone defence.

It wasn’t to be Livingston’s day as St Johnstone defended well to see out a well earned victory in the SWPL 2. Livingston are back in action next weekend as they host Gartcairn in the 4th round of the Scottish Cup.

Match Report: Angus Mcgregor

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