Saturday 20 September 2014 19:12, UK
John Hughes believes patience paid off for Inverness as they took top spot in the Scottish Premiership with a 2-1 win over St Johnstone.
The hosts were held at bay for over an hour before goals from Marley Watkins and Ryan Christie put them in control, but Brian Graham pulled one back for Saints, setting up a tense finale at Caledonian Stadium.
Inverness held on to retake their place at the top, moving two points above previous leaders Hamilton, who they trailed on goal difference before kick-off.
"It's all about patience. We're not here to educate you guys but don't come to Inverness expecting to see gung-ho football," said Caley boss Hughes.
"Our ball retention was good and we created enough chances. It was a great first goal from Marley and then the second goal killed the game.
"We then sat back and allowed them back into it in the last 15 minutes and we were hanging on a wee bit.
"That last 15 minutes will cost us if it keeps happening. We should really be keeping the ball and that was a little bit disappointing."
St Johnstone manager Tommy Wright felt his side did not show enough attacking urgency until they trailed by two goals.
"It was in fits and starts. In the first half they were slightly better without creating a lot of chances," he said.
"In the second half we started really but were reluctant to get the ball into the box. We've made mistakes that should be dealt with and they then went and got the second goal.
"It's disappointing that we didn't react well, until the second goal went in. At 2-0 we probably played with a bit more urgency, being braver on the ball and more people making forward runs.
"Lo and behold, we got a goal out of it."
