Scottish Premiership predictions: betting preview and free football tips

Free SPL football tips, best bets and analysis for this weekend's Scottish Premiership matches, including Hibernian v St Johnstone.

Best bets

Hearts -1 Asian handicap
1pt 11-10 bet365

St Johnstone or draw double chance
1pt 10-11 general

Preview

Livingston have managed just one Scottish Premiership win this season and that came when they had just 21 per cent possession, but somehow managed to beat Celtic 1-0.

That was one of only three goals Livi have managed in their opening six top-flight matches and that doesn't bode well for David Martindale's side when they visit Hearts.

Livingston were involved in a gruelling League Cup tie at Rangers on Wednesday and they failed to muster a single shot on goal or corner in a 2-0 defeat at Ibrox.

Clearly, Rangers are a stronger side than Hearts, but the Jambos have been resting up all week, while Livi's small squad is being asked to go again just a few days later.

The Jambos go into this game following two draws, but the performance level was good in the Edinburgh derby stalemate and they were the better side when sharing the spoils with Ross County last time out.

Robbie Neilson's side dominated the game at Dingwall and if it wasn't for a star performance from County keeper Ashley Maynard-Brewer, Hearts would have run out convincing winners. The Jambos welcome back Josh Ginnelly and Michael Smith, after the pair missed the trip to the Highlands and they look worthy of support giving Livingston a one-goal start at Tynecastle.

St Johnstone made it through to a third straight League Cup semi-final on Wednesday and it could be only a matter of time before that knockout form translates to the league.

The Saints have been performing well in the SPL this term, but a lack of goals has seen them win just one top-flight match. However, that came at Aberdeen last weekend and the victory over Dundee in the cup should boost their confidence further.

Hibs have enjoyed a good start to the season and they aren't opposed lightly. However, at the prices it looks worth siding with St Johnstone and the draw on the double-chance market.

Not got a bet365 account? Sign up today and get up to £100 in bet credits

Up to £100 in Bet Credits for new customers at bet365. Min deposit £5. Bet Credits available for use upon settlement of bets to value of qualifying deposit. Min odds, bet and payment method exclusions apply. Returns exclude Bet Credits stake. Time limits and T&Cs apply.

CLAIM OFFER HERE

MORE FREE BETS

Today's top sports betting stories

Follow us on Twitter @racingpostsport