St Johnstone set to be awarded Freedom of Perth after historic cup double
Saints lifted both the Scottish the League cups in season 2020/21, becoming only the fourth Scottish club to win two domestic trophies in one season
St Johnstone are set to be awarded the Freedom of Perth after completing a historic cup double in 2020/21.
Saints lifted both the Scottish the League cups in season 2020/21, becoming only the fourth Scottish club to win two domestic trophies in one season.
The League Cup was secured in February with a 1-0 win over Livingston while Hibs were defeated in May to clinch the Scottish Cup.
Remarkably, both winning goals were scored by Shaun Rooney in the 32nd minute of both games.
The Perthshire Advertiser had called for the accolade to be granted in the immediate aftermath of the Scottish Cup final.
Councillors will be asked to approve awarding the Freedom of the City of Perth to St Johnstone when Perth and Kinross Council meets on June 23.
Provost Dennis Melloy said: “St Johnstone’s success over the past season has been a shining light for the city in what have often been dark times.
“Awarding the Freedom of the City to St Johnstone is a fitting recognition of their amazing success this season.
“As a lifelong Saints fan, I know just how much these two victories mean to supporters and everyone associated with the club.
“Winning the cup double under such difficult circumstances is truly remarkable and I congratulate everyone at the club again on such a historic achievement, completed against the backdrop of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
“St Johnstone is also at the heart of the community through Saints in the Community, and it is right we officially recognise their amazing achievements this season.”
St Johnstone chairman Steve Brown said: “For our football club to be considered for the Freedom of Perth is totally unexpected and we are proud and humbled to have been nominated.
“We are in esteemed company, and it would be fantastic if we were to receive such a prestigious accolade.
“It has been a remarkable season and it has been a real team effort. Callum, his backroom staff and the players were unbelievable, and we are very proud. Being nominated is also something my father is very proud of having taken over the club 35 years ago.”
The Freedom of the City of Perth ceremony will take place when coronavirus restrictions have been relaxed.
