Celtic Edge Out St Mirren to Maintain Pressure on Premiership Leaders

Celtic secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over St Mirren, keeping them within three points of Scottish Premiership leaders Hearts. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain's first-half goal proved decisive, as Martin O'Neill's side moved into second place ahead of Rangers. Despite a strong start, Celtic struggled to find their rhythm, with Oxlade-Chamberlain's 15th-minute strike ultimately proving the difference. The hosts had an early goal ruled out for offside, but Oxlade-Chamberlain made no mistake when he fired low into the bottom corner. St Mirren rarely threatened, with substitute Kelechi Iheanacho missing Celtic's best chance to seal the win in the second half. The victory marked a reversal of fortunes for Celtic, who were stunned by St Mirren in the Premier Sports Cup final in December. The Green Brigade, back in attendance at Celtic Park for the first time since November, were in fine voice as their team prepared for next week's Scottish Cup semi-final. After a bright start, Celtic thought they had taken the lead when Callum McGregor's shot was parried, only for Oxlade-Chamberlain's rebound to be ruled out for offside. St Mirren's Jonah Ayunga and Miguel Freckleton both had early efforts, but Celtic took the lead through Oxlade-Chamberlain's clinical finish. Tomas Cvancara nearly doubled the lead, but his effort was thwarted by a collision with goalkeeper Shamal George, who was later replaced by Ryan Mullen. The second half was a more subdued affair, with Iheanacho missing a gilt-edged chance at the near post. St Mirren's Jacob Devaney and Roland Idowu both tried their luck from distance, but Celtic held on for a narrow win. Manager Martin O'Neill admitted his side lacked energy, but was relieved to have secured the three points. St Mirren boss Craig McLeish, meanwhile, was left to rue his side's lack of creativity in the final third.