St Johnstone interim manager Andy Kirk admitted his pride at seeing his son Makenzie score his first top-flight goal in Saints’ 3-0 victory over Ross County at McDiarmid Park on Saturday.
The 20-year-old substitute bundled home in stoppage time after good work from Graham Carey to wrap up a convincing win for the Perth side, who had new manager Simo Valakari watching from the stands once again as he continues to wait for a work permit.
Benjamin Kimpioka had twice slotted in at the far post to give Saints a 2-0 half-time lead, while County had Elijah Campbell and Charlie Telfer dismissed as they finished the game with nine men.
Kirk shared his delight at seeing his son get off the mark in the William Hill Premiership, while he was also full of praise for Kimpioka and Adama Sidibeh, who were starting together for the first time since August.
Kirk said: “Kimpioka and Sidibeh are a handful for any defenders that they’re playing against. They’re strong, quick players and they have ability and they can find the net.
“We’re delighted to have those two back because it makes a huge difference to us.
“It was great to have the two of them back but we also bring on Makenzie (Kirk) for the last 15 minutes and he contributes to the game because he has pace and he wants to run and he gets himself a goal at the end.
“I’m super proud to see Makenzie score but I was just glad to see the third goal go in because when you’re sitting at 2-0 you just want the game dead.
“I’m really pleased for him and I’m glad he’s off the mark in the Premiership.”