Midfielder Sven Sprangler says Wednesday night’s defeat to St Mirren was a “bitter pill to swallow” as Simo Valakari lost for the first time as St Johnstone manager.

The Finn made a winning start to life in the Perth dugout as his side snatched a late victory against Dundee but they could not follow it up in Paisley, losing 3-1 despite taking an early lead through Benjamin Kimpioka.

“It was tough to take, to be honest, because I think we played well,” Sprangler told St Johnstone’s website. “We managed to score three goals in the first half, albeit two of them were ruled out.

“In the second half they put on some more pressure with high balls and set-pieces. We defended well but they kept the pressure going.

“We had a lot of possession but did not create too many chances in the second half. So it was very disappointing to go back home with no points.”

Sprangler was one of the shining lights for St Johnstone on a disappointing evening that leaves the Perth side ninth in the Premiership.

The Austrian is expected to remain in his midfield berth when the Saints host Hearts on Saturday afternoon.

“It was a bitter pill to swallow on Wednesday but the good thing is we have another game at the weekend,” he added. “We can show what we can do and go for the three points.

“Hearts are behind us in the table but we know they have quality.”