Celtic Secure Hard-Fought Win Over St Mirren to Maintain Pressure on Leaders Hearts

Celtic have kept their title hopes alive with a narrow 1-0 victory over St Mirren, moving into second place in the Scottish Premiership table. The winning goal came courtesy of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain in the first half, after an earlier effort was ruled out for offside. Despite dominating possession, Celtic struggled to extend their lead, with substitute Kelechi Iheanacho missing a gilt-edged chance in the second half. The win keeps Celtic three points behind leaders Hearts, who also secured a late win over Motherwell. St Mirren, who had stunned Celtic with a 3-1 win in the Premier Sports Cup in December, were limited to just one shot on target as they slipped to defeat. The match marked the return of the Green Brigade to Celtic Park for the first time since November, and they were in fine voice throughout. Celtic manager Martin O'Neill acknowledged that his side lacked energy, particularly in the second half, but was relieved to have secured the three points. St Mirren boss Craig McLeish expressed disappointment at not taking any points from the game, citing a lack of creativity in the final third as a key factor.