Relieved Rodgers hails persistence of his Bhoys

Brendan Rodgers last night saluted his reigning champions as Celtic edged out St Mirren with a late winner.

- COLIN PATERSON

The Hoops boss was delighted to see his Bhoys get off the mark on opening day thanks to Luke McCowan's crucial strike.

He praised Buddies keeper Shamal George's performance but had faith Celtic would prevail in the end.

"It's difficult in the first game of the season as you're not quite up to full fitness but I thought we played ever so well," the Northern Irishman said.