McCowan makes the difference but it's cruel on Buddies

Late winner is a sickener for stubborn Saints at Parkhead

- Colin Paterson

St Mirren suffered late heartbreak at Celtic Park again last night as Luke McCowan fired the reigning champions to victory.

The Buddies were hanging on for a superb opening-day point before McCowan's strike deflected past hero keeper Shamal George.

On the final day of last season, James Forrest climbed off the bench to earn Celtica 1-1 draw with Saints.

And on the first day of this campaign, it was McCowan who produced the goods.

It was undoubtedly cruel on the Buddies who didn't deserve to lose.

But Stephen Robinson's men will take enormous encouragement from pushing Celtic all the way.

Saints started the same side which beat Ayr United in the Premier Sports Cup. New recruit Malik Dijksteel was on the bench.

Manager Brendan Rodgers handed debuts to two summer signings for Celtic's season opener - Kieran Tierney made his 'second' bow for the club alongside Benjamin Nygren.

Saints formed a guard of honour as Celtic strolled out with the Premiership trophy.