Cheick Diabate scored and was sent off as St Johnstone beat AirdrieoniansSt Johnstone held off an Airdrieonians fightback at the Excelsior Stadium to secure a 2-1 win and move eight points clear at the top of the Scottish Championship. Jamie Gullan opened the scoring for the visitors in the ninth minute before Cheick Diabate doubled his side’s tally just 10 minutes later. Cameron Cooper provided the home side a lifeline when he struck from close range with 16 minutes to go. However, St Johnstone, who have dropped just two points this season, survived to extend their lead at the summit with Airdrieonians, still yet to win a game, rooted to the foot of the table. Both sides received red cards following the final whistle after Diabate and Aaron Reid were sent off.