It's been a good Friday night for St Johnstone after Ruari Paton's first-half lob proved to be enough to defeat Airdrieonians.

The 1-0 win moved Saints five points clear of Partick Thistle at the top of the Scottish Championship.

Airdrie battled hard in the second half and almost levelled when Chris Mochrie was denied by Toby Steward's stunning save.

Image source, SNS

Tonight's coverage is almost at an end. Good night.

Here's a recap...

• Arbroath v Ayr United
• Dunfermline Athletic v Partick Thistle
• Greenock Morton v Raith Rovers
• Ross County v Queen's Park

Airdrieonians head coach Aaron Taylor-Sinclair tells BBC Scotland: "Probably overall, disappointed.

"We completely dominated and not a lot of sides have done that to St Johnstone this season. We just didn't take the chances tonight.

"There's still a lot to play for. Just keep going and we're on the right tracks."

Image source, SNS

St Johnstone manager Simo Valakari tells BBC Scotland: "Our attacking game was very, very dangerous.

"We have not played for a long time. Boy have worked hard to be ready for this game.

"Ruari showed what qualities he has. Good timing by Ruari to get there. That's what we need. Composure for that finish. Happy he got his first goal.

"Our players showed today big personality, big characteristics - get the clean sheet, get the three points."

Image source, SNS

St Johnstone captain Jason Holt tells BBC Scotland: "A difficult game, very hard fought. Airdrie caused us problems but we stood up to the task.

"We showed a different side to us throughout the game, defending the box as well as we could.

"We're delighted with the three points. The team worked ever so hard. It was one of those nights, need to dig deep so we're extremely happy."

Here's the new Scottish Championship table after this evening's match.

St Johnstone are five points clear and have now played the same amount of games as nearest challengers Partick Thistle.

Image source, SNS

St Johnstone goalkeeper Toby Steward tells BBC Scotland: "We knew it was going to be a big game. It's a big three points.

"I saw the boy (Chris Mochrie) running in. I knew that he was going to get there. I just chucked myself at it, trying to get anything on it and luckily it stayed out. I was happy with it.

"That's my job at the end of the day, that's what I'm here to do."

St Johnstone scorer Ruari Paton tells BBC Scotland: "I'm just so happy. Desperate to do well when you first get in, want to make a good impression.

"I was kind of forced to go over him. I'm so happy I've come in and contributed. Long may it continue.

"It's been a really smooth, really easy transition for me. It's a great group of lads. There's obviously a good feeling at the minute."

Image source, SNS

Debutant Ruari Paton's first-half goal proves to be enough for St Johnstone but goalkeeper Toby Steward also played a big part.

Steward's point-blank save denied Airdrieonians as they pressed hard for an equaliser in the second half and a further block on Lewis McGrattan's effort further frustrated the hosts.

Saints go five points clear at the top before Saturday's remaining Scottish Championship fixtures. Airdrie remain eighth.

Image source, SNS

Gavin Gallagher gets on the end of a cross from the right but cannot direct it on target.

That might be that for Airdrieonians.

Two minutes into four of added time.

Scott Constable comes on in Airdrieonians' last substitution. Dylan MacDonald makes way.

A bit of grappling by Airdrieonians defender Charlie McArthur on Josh Fowler results in a yellow card for McArthur.

This was the outstanding moment of the second half as St Johnstone goalkeeper Toby Steward denied Chris Mochrie from close range.

Image source, SNS

A third booking this evening as St Johnstone substitute Alfredo Agyeman is cautioned for a bit of dissent.

Josh McPake is replaced by St Johnstone substitute Taylor Steven.

Into the last five.

James McFadden
Former Scotland forward on BBC Sportscene

He has to stand big, Steward, again. Good goalkeeping once again.

They're having a great spell here, Airdrie. Certainly most likely to get the next goal.