Andrew Petrie

Hearts' emphatic 4-0 victory over Dundee United suggests Wouter Vrancken's early problems were more about wasteful finishing than a lack of attacking ideas. Despite defeats by Sturm Graz, Aberdeen and Benfica, the team had been creating chances and producing competitive performances, with the Dundee United match finally bringing better decision-making and execution. Vrancken is also set to lose winger Alexandros Kyziridis to Turkey, but Hearts have several existing and new options to replace his goals and assists.

St Johnstone defeated Kilmarnock 4-3 in a thrilling Scottish Premiership opener after twice coming from behind. The newly promoted side impressed with aggressive attacking play, particularly through Ruari Paton and Jamie Gullan, while manager Simo Valakari's attacking substitutions helped secure the win through a Jason Holt own goal and Kai Fotheringham's late strike. Kilmarnock's defensive weaknesses resurfaced, and manager Neil McCann admitted that his team deserved nothing from the match despite briefly taking a 3-2 lead. The game was hailed as an early contender for the season's best, while both sides still have clear areas to improve.