St Johnstone clinched the Scottish Cup for the first time in their 130-year history with a 2-0 win over Dundee United in a pulsating final at Celtic Park.

United had come close to taking the lead on the half hour mark when Ryan Dow’s flick came back off the post before Steven Anderson headed St Johnstone in front in first half stoppage time following a blunder from ‘keeper Radoslaw Cierzniak.

Nadir Ciftci almost had United on level terms minutes after the break as his free-kick nicked the inside of the bar while prolific Saints striker Stevie May had a goal ruled out after he bundled the ball over the line with his arm.

The game was being played at a terrific tempo with chances at either end before Steven MacLean fired home in the 84th minute to spark wild celebrations amongst the St Johnstone fans.

St Johnstone’s victory is their first major trophy success and means the past nine domestic cup competitions in Scotland have been won by eight different clubs.

“This is the pinnacle of my career,” said jubilant Saints manager Tommy Wright.

“For us to win the Scottish Cup – our first major trophy – words can’t describe how I feel about it all because it’s so special for so many people.”

A despondent Dundee United manager Jackie McNamara couldn’t hide his disappointment.

“I think today just wasn’t our day. We hit the post and the bar and to lose the goal just before half-time was a real body blow,” McNamara said.