2024-05-18: Celtic 3-2 St Mirren, SP

Match Pictures | Matches: 2023 – 2024

---

Trivia

• KO: 12:30; Saturday; Last league match of the season; Sky Sports; League Match 38 of 38
• Trophy Presentation Day
• Celtic finish the season as League title winners, three in a row, still going for the double with Scottish Cup final next week.
• Celtic top on 93pts +65GD after 38 games, Sevco dropped pts today in 3-3 away to Hearts, and are 8pts behind and 10GD behind Celtic.
• Celtic had already sealed the title on Wednesday past. So today is a party celebration day at home, and Trophy presentation day.
• Santa recalled to bring the trophy onto the pitch, background to this is that Santa was booed back in December when there was
• Celtic shirts proudly sporting the club’s Celtic Cross logo once again, to mark National Famine Commemoration Day.
• Police closed roads in Glasgow city centre as large crowds of Celtic fans gathered for an unofficial party to celebrate.
• Joe Hart’s last match at Celtic (as a player), and has a very emotional speech at the end that put lumps in the throats of everyone watching. There was also an incredible Tifo made in his honour.
• Celtic face TheRangers in the Scottish Cup final next weekend, both sides going for a domestic double.
• Celtic Women’s team: Create incredible history on winning their first ever League title. Needed to win (depeding on Sevco womens’ result). As Sevco counterparts were coasting their game, Celtic needed to win but struggled against a decent Hibs Womens’ side, but then magically in inury time, Amy Gallacher (great granddaugher of the legenday Celt Patsy Gallacher) scored the winner and so winning Celtic the league title! Incredible. A great double league title celebration for Celtic supporters in the same weekend. See link
• Reports: Sead Haksabanovic attracting Serie A interest with an exit from Celtic expected, Torino, Verona & newly promoted Parma interested with fee of £2.6m (very few convinced of the veracity of this story).
• Celtic are yet to indicate to Benfica if they plan to seal a permanent deal for Paulo Bernardo, according to reports in Portugal.
• Old school football journalist Ewing Grahame passed away. RIP
• Callum McGregor believes team-mate James Forrest could be the solution to Scotland’s right-back quandary.
• Celtic remain hungry for more silverware after winning the league title, says  Liam Scales.
• Youth player Lewis Dobbie has become the latest player to sign a new deal with the Hoops
• Hamilton Academical sealed a return to the Scottish Championship (2nd tier) by beating Inverness CT 5-3 on aggregate.
• Away on loan Mikey Johnston’s West Brom  misses out on EPL promotion after play-off defeat.

---

Summary

“This place, they really know how to get to you.”
Joe Hart

“I’ve never felt professionally that special before in my entire life. “How do you explain this to people? I don’t want to explain this to anyone. This is not a club that needs explaining, it speaks for itself.”
Joe Hart addresses the Celtic support after the game (May 2024)

“If you’re successful as a Celtic player they will absolutely adore you.” Callum McGregor

“This club is special. When you win for this club, you look at the appreciation – everybody’s at work tomorrow and they’re out in their numbers to celebrate.”
Callum McGregor (pre match)

“I love them mate…I couldn’t be happier for everyone there”
Ange Postecoglou

“This is not a club that needs explaining. This is a club that speaks for itself”
Joe Hart

“Celtic is a feeling. You either feel it or you don’t.”
Joe Hart

Joebloggscity of TheCelticWiki: An easy day some would say, but Celtic had to come from behind twice as St Mirren almost stole the headlines. Some fine Celtic play in a party atmosphere helped Celtic fight back with a late winner by the unexpected source of Palma. Celtic did start the day with a number of second string players, but the day was really in awe & a tribute to the retiring Joe Hart, who was given an incredible Tifo display, and a standing ovation as he was subbed off just prior to the end. His post-match interview was one of the most emotional ever seen at Celtic. A fine day and some incredible memories.

Etims: E-Tims @ETimsNet Only cos you asked  FT 3-2 Celts. Many expected chgs made by BR with league in bag and Cup Final next week. Thought Celtic zipped the ball about well the first half but poor defending on rare Saints attacks had us only level at HT & sitter from Palma! Second half was about the countdown to title party. Nice late winner following fab Ralston cross for Palma tap in at back post. Highlight though was tribute to Joe from @NCCeltic at start of 2nd half & then Joe subbed with 5 mins to go and receiving heroes ovation from fans

Inside The SPFL @AgentScotland Celtic finished the League season with 93 points, they would’ve only finished with 76 points if every Hugh Keevins prediction throughout the season was correct, which in itself is ridiculous considering they got more points than that in the covid year.

---

Teams

Celtic:

Manager: Brendan Rodgers

Formation: 4 – 3 – 3

1, J. Hart, substituted for S. Bain at 88 minutes
56, A. Ralston
3, G. Taylor
42, C. McGregor (c), Captain substituted for Paulo Bernardo at 77 minutes
57, S. Welsh substituted for L. Scales at 66 minutes
17, M. Nawrocki
33, M. O’Riley
41, R. Hatate substituted for T. Iwata at 65 minutes
8, K. Furuhashi substituted for A. Idah at 65 minutes
10, N. Kühn
7, L. Palma

subs:
2, A. Johnston
5, L. Scales
9, A. Idah
20, C. Carter-Vickers
24, T. Iwata
28, Paulo Bernardo
29, S. Bain
38, D. Maeda
49, J. Forrest

Goals:

• M. O’Riley, (21′Goal 21 minutes)
• K. Furuhashi, (37′Goal 37 minutes)
• L. Palma, (86′Goal 86 minutes)

Assists:

R. Hatate (37′), A. Ralston (86′)

St. Mirren

Manager: Stephen Robinson

Formation: 3 – 5 – 2

1, Z. Hemming
42, E. Bwomono substituted for R. Strain at 66 minutes
3, S. Tanser
5, R. Taylor substituted for C. Dunne at 66 minutes
13, A. Gogić
22, M. Fraser
17, K. Baccus
15, C. Boyd-Munce substituted for R. Flynn at 80 minutes
20, T. Olusanya
M. Mandron 75′, substituted for M. Mandron at 75 minutes
10, C. McMenamin substituted for L. Jamieson at 80 minutes
6, M. O’Hara (c), Captain

Subs:

2, J. Bolton
8, R. Flynn
9, M. Mandron
14, J. Scott
18, C. Dunne
21, J. Brown
23, R. Strain
24, L. Jamieson
27, P. Urminský

Goals:

• M. O’Hara, (Goal 7 minutes, Penalty 26 minutes)

Match Officials

Referee: Matthew MacDermid

Fourth official: Alan Muir

VAR: Kevin Clancy

Assistant VAR: John McCrossan

Att:60000

---

Articles

• Match Report (see below)

Pictures

• Match Pictures

---

Match Links

• Prior
• Match
• Post
• MoTM

---

Stats

Overall Possession
Celtic 72.9%
St. Mirren 27.1%

Shots
Celtic 12
St. Mirren 9

Shots on target
Celtic 4
St. Mirren 3

Shots off target
Celtic 7
St. Mirren 3

Blocked shots
Celtic 1
St. Mirren 3

Total touches in the box
Celtic 29
St. Mirren 16

Goalkeeper saves
Celtic 1
St. Mirren 1

Aerial duels won
Celtic 20
St. Mirren 13

Fouls
Celtic 7
St. Mirren 9

Corners
Celtic 11
St. Mirren 3

---

Articles

Champions sink Saints as Santa joins in Trophy Day celebrations

First Team

By Matthew Campbell

Share
18 May 2024, 3:33 pm

Scottish Premiership
Saturday, May 18, 2024
Celtic Park, St Mirren

CELTIC…3
(O’Riley 21, Kyogo 37, Palma 86)

ST MIRREN…2
(O’Hara 7 & 24)

It was a Trophy Day to remember at Paradise as Celtic signed off another title-winning campaign with a 3-2 victory over St Mirren.

There were emotional scenes as supporters paid tribute to Joe Hart on his last appearance at Celtic Park, Santa Claus made a special appearance on the pitch to bring on the trophy, and Brendan Rodgers’ side lifted the silverware on a day when the sun shone on the Celts.

In terms of the 90 minutes, Celtic started the game well and Stephen Welsh went close early on with a header from a corner.

But it was the visitors who took the lead in the seventh minute. A long throw into the box from Keanu Baccus ricocheted around the penalty area before falling to Mark O’Hara, who found the back of the net with a decent strike.

Just over 10 minutes later, Celtic were level. Matt O’Riley found Kyogo in the box, and although the Japanese forward was unable to bring the ball under control, it broke to O’Riley who thrashed it into the net.

A few moments later, the scoreline swung in favour of the visitors once more, with O’Hara getting his name on the scoresheet again, this time from the penalty spot after Welsh was penalised for fouling Toyosi Olusanya in the box.

With 34 minutes on the clock, the Hoops struck back with an excellent goal to equalise for the second time.

Reo Hatate and Kyogo linked up well on the right, with Hatate breaking free down the wing before whipping a ball across the front post where Kyogo was waiting to knock it home.

The Celts had a chance to take the lead almost immediately, but this time a cross from Kyogo was headed just wide by Luis Palma.
73%

Possession
27%
12

Shots
9
4

Shots On Target
3
11

Corners
3
7

Fouls
9

0

0

Cards

0

0

The 60,000 Celtic fans packed in to Paradise sang Joe Hart’s name as he left the pitch at half-time and as he re-emerged for the second half, he was greeted by a banner displaying his likeness and the words ‘SUPER JOE HART’, a tribute which clearly moved the Englishman.

There were fewer opportunities in the second-half, although Maik Nawrocki came up with a great last-ditch challenge to deny Olusanya a goalscoring opportunity to keep the game level.

With just under five minutes to go, the Celts took the lead for the first time in the game.

A cute back-heel from Matt O’Riley gave Anthony Ralston the chance to get a cross in to the box, and his ball to the back post was slotted home by Luis Palma.

Joe Hart came off with moments of the match to go, which was an invitation for Paradise to pay tribute to the Celtic No. 1 for the last time.

The incredible standing ovation that he received was a testament to the impact that Hart has made in his three years at the club.

When the full-time whistle went, anticipation grew in the stadium as supporters awaited the arrival of the league trophy, and the silverware was brought out by Santa Claus himself. This time, he received the reception at Paradise that he deserves… if you know, you know.

And with that, the 2023/24 Scottish Premiership season is over and it ends in the way that it so often does.

For the 12th time in 13 years, for the 54th time in Celtic’s history and for the third consecutive season – Celtic are Champions, again.

Celtic: Hart (Bain 88′), Ralston, Welsh (Scales 66′), Nawrocki, Taylor, O’Riley, McGregor (Paulo Bernardo 77′), Hatate (Tomoki 65′), Kühn, Kyogo (Idah 65′), Palma

Subs: Johnston, Scales, Idah, Carter-Vickers, Tomoki, Paulo Bernardo, Bain, Maeda, Forrest

St. Mirren: Hemming, Fraser, Gogic, Taylor (Dunne 66′), Bwomono (Strain 66′), Baccus, O’Hara, Boyd-Munce (Flynn 80′), Tanser, McMenamin (Jamieson 80′), Olusanya (Mandron 75′)

Subs: Bolton, Flynn, Mandron, Scott, Dunne, Brown, Strain, Jamieson, Urminsky

---

Why this is Celtic’s most wonderful time of year as title party has ultimate gift for champions

https://www.scotsman.com/sport/football/celtic/why-this-is-celtics-most-wonderful-time-of-year-as-title-party-has-ultimate-gift-for-champions-4633915
By Graeme Macpherson
Published 18th May 2024, 16:12 BST

Comments
Santa is wheeled out in the sunshine as Premiership campaign ends in a win

Winning never gets boring. The notion that supporters of successful clubs must eventually weary of constant glory always seemed faintly a ridiculous one and 60,000 Celtic fans here confirmed as much.

A 12th league title in 13 seasons, their 54th overall, was celebrated with as much glee and enthusiasm as if it had been the first. This has been a far from straightforward season for Celtic, starting with the mixed reception afforded to manager Brendan Rodgers upon his return last summer, and the period when Rangers, resurgent for a while under Philippe Clement, briefly threatened their dominance.

All those frustrations and concerns, however, have been washed away in recent weeks, Celtic’s status as Scottish football’s elite force rubber-stamped in midweek and marked in colourful and noisy fashion before, during and after this the final league contest of a tumultuous season.
Santa returns to Celtic Park to deliver the cinch Premiership trophy after the win against St Mirren.
Santa returns to Celtic Park to deliver the cinch Premiership trophy after the win against St Mirren.

There may be some Celtic dissidents still clinging onto their bitterness over the decision to re-hire Rodgers but their number is far, far fewer now. Winning tends to have that soothing effect. When he was introduced to the crowd at the end of the game, nobody was booing now. “This means everything to me,” he told the fans. “I put myself under pressure when I said what I said [about winning the title]. But I believed in the team and my staff.”

By that point, the presentation stage was hastily assembled – can you hire them for Ikea wardrobes? – and the big screens played a montage of the season’s key moments before the team returned to the pitch to the soundtrack of the Champions League theme, another perk of finishing first. Then came the moment everyone had been hoping for. Booed by disgruntled supporters during a pre-Christmas home defeat that feels like a lifetime ago, Santa Claus was given the honour of delivering the league trophy, his and Celtic’s redemption arc now complete. “The most wonderful time of the year,” boomed out over the PA system to set the party into full swing.

Even the lunchtime kick-off, often the scourge of supporters, didn’t seem to put anyone off. With Celtic Park bathed in sunshine, the fans were up and out nice and early, many in shorts and T-shirts, adding to the holiday atmosphere. Scarves flying out of car windows was another sign that this was no ordinary occasion. The Celtic team bus drew up at 11am, greeted with plumes of green and orange pyro and crowds backed all along the Celtic Way. Joe Hart, ahead of the final league game of a celebrated career, led the team on the short walk up to the front door, league trophy in hand.

A giant banner unveiled by the Green Brigade at the start of the second half – “Super Joe Hart” emblazoned in huge letters and, for once, in a legible font – was another nice touch to acknowledge the departing goalkeeper as he heads into retirement. The emotion on Hart’s face made clear that the appreciation was mutual. When he was substituted in the final minute, every Celtic fan inside the ground was singing his name.
Joe Hart hoists the league title aloft on a sunny day at Celtic Park.
Joe Hart hoists the league title aloft on a sunny day at Celtic Park.

Even Sky Sports got in on the fun of the day, former Celtic striker Chris Sutton dragging a life-sized cut-off of his colleague Kris Boyd into the studio before the match. Given the former Rangers front man was smiling in the image, both thumbs up, it is fair to assume it wasn’t a recent one. “The Rangers are coming” joked Sutton. Until, of course, they weren’t.

The Green Brigade led the singing throughout the match as tends to be the case but for once they weren’t alone, other sections of the stadium lending their voices to the cacophony. “Stand up for the champions,” was aired more than once as tends to happen around Celtic Park in May these days.

The Celtic fans, of course, were not the only ones milking every last drop out of the day. The pocket of St Mirren supporters shoehorned into a corner of the stadium were in celebratory mode, too, after the club sealed its return to the European arena for the first time since 1987 with beach balls batted back and forward joyfully in the now time-honoured fashion. “We’re on our way, we’re on our way … to the Conference League,” they sang with some gusto. Others might be sniffy about UEFA’s third club competition but, given how long St Mirren fans have waited to watch their team play on the continent, this was an achievement quite rightly celebrated and in noisy fashion. Watching their team take the lead twice only served to add to their good humour.

The match itself was largely an irrelevance, although with a Scottish Cup final on the horizon next weekend, Celtic had more to motivate them than their visitors. Some of the regulars were spared the action, with a much-changed defence offering opportunities to Anthony Ralston, Maik Nawrocki and Stephen Welsh, none of whom looked particularly clever in dealing with Keanu Baccus’ long throw that, eventually, fell to Mark O’Hara to drill in a low shot for the opening goal. Welsh also conceded the penalty stroked home by O’Hara to make it 2-1 before he exited midway through the second half with what looked like a broken arm. Expect the usual defensive stalwarts to be back in their usual places for the big one at Hampden on Saturday.

Matt O’Riley, Celtic’s best player this season, enhanced his already glittering reputation with a first-half equaliser, while Kyogo Furuhashi did likewise to draw his team level for a second time in an unexpectedly competitive first half. A late goal from Luis Palma made sure the league season ended on a winning note for Celtic. That usually tends to be the case.

---

Celtic come from behind twice to cap successful Premiership campaign with victory

https://www.msn.com/en-ie/sports/other/celtic-come-from-behind-twice-to-cap-successful-premiership-campaign-with-victory/ar-BB1mCFan
Story by Press Association
• 5h • 3 min read
LUIS PALMA SCORED a late winner as champions Celtic twice came from behind to round off another successful cinch Premiership campaign with a 3-2 victory over St Mirren on trophy day at Parkhead.

St Mirren captain Mark O’Hara twice gave the visitors the lead but goals from Matt O’Riley and Kyogo Furuhashi had Celtic level at the break.
LUIS PALMA SCORED a late winner as champions Celtic twice came from behind to round off another successful cinch Premiership campaign with a 3-2 victory over St Mirren on trophy day at Parkhead.

St Mirren captain Mark O’Hara twice gave the visitors the lead but goals from Matt O’Riley and Kyogo Furuhashi had Celtic level at the break.

O’Riley came close with a curling effort before firing home his 19th goal of the season after following in his own headed pass into Furuhashi in the 21st minute.

Saints were back in front five minutes later. Welsh nudged over Toyosi Olusanya after a long ball had bounced over the defender’s head and referee Matthew MacDermid pointed to the spot. O’Hara lifted the ball over Hart’s dive.

The Saints captain soon headed against the post, although MacDermid blew for a foul against one of his team-mates.

Celtic were level again in the 37th minute. Reo Hatate made strides down the right wing and delivered a low cross for Furuhashi to squeeze a finish inside the near post.

The home side had good chances to take the lead before the break but were off target with Palma’s diving header and Hatate’s volley.

As fans chanted Hart’s name, the 75-times capped England goalkeeper acknowledged the crowd before sprinting off the park, possibly when he realised he was in danger of getting over-emotional.

---

Celtic 3-2 St Mirren: Luis Palma’s late strike ensures Hoops Premiership title party a winning one

https://www.skysports.com/football/celtic-vs-st-mirren/report/504766

Match report as Celtic beat St Mirren 3-2 on trophy day; Luis Palma secured the win with a late strike; the Hoops celebrated their third straight Premiership title in front of a sell-out crowd
Alison Conroy

Digital Sports Journalist @AlisonGConroy

Saturday 18 May 2024 15:49, UK

Watch highlights from the Scottish Premiership match as Celtic hosted St Mirren and lifted the Scottish Premiership trophy at full-time.

Luis Palma’s late strike saw Celtic secure a win on an emotional Premiership trophy day for retiring goalkeeper Joe Hart.

After wrapping up the league in style at Kilmarnock in midweek, the Hoops were looking for more of the same in their final league game of the season.

But St Mirren, back in Europe for the first time in 37-years, had other ideas as Mark O’Hara slammed home the opener inside the
Matt O’Riley levelled the game, before O’Hara fired in his second from the penalty spot after Stephen Welsh clattered into Toyosi Olysanya, with Kyogo Furuhashi pulling the Hoops level again before the break.

There was an emotional tribute to Hart in his final Celtic Park appearance as he left the pitch with minutes left to play before Palma really got the party started when he secured the champions victory.
Trending

Christmas comes early for Celtic

Santa brought the Premiership trophy out at Parkhead to applause as the Hoops fans made up for booing him in December, when they feared the Premiership title was heading to Rangers.

He was among those soaking up the sunshine as the players emerged to a guard of honour from St Mirren.
Also See:

And Welsh should have given them the perfect start when he met Palma’s corner but instead headed wide.

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player
O'hara puts St Mirren ahead of Celtic
St Mirren’s Mark O’Hara fires the Saints into a shock lead against Celtic.

Instead, St Mirren showed their intent to spoil the party when O’Hara found the bottom corner to fire the visitors ahead after just seven minutes.

The Buddies continued to cause problems but, after striking the bar, O’Riley took advantage of a loose ball and slammed home the equaliser in the 21st minute.

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player
O'Riley scores for Celtic against St Mirren
Matt O’Riley draws Celtic level against St Mirren.

They were trailing again minutes later as O’Hara converted from the penalty spot after Welsh’s error, and Keanu Baccus’ shot was blocked before O’Hara hit the post as Stephen Robinson’s side really looked to dampen the celebrations.

Celtic were screaming for a penalty after Kyogo was brought down by Alex Gogic, but a VAR check showed he was offside.

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player
OHara scores for St Mirren at Celtic
Mark O’Hara’s penalty restores St Mirren’s lead over Celtic

The Japan striker did pull the champions level before the break, turning home Reo Hatate’s cross, with Palma sending a diving header just wide soon after.

Hart, retiring at the end of the season, was close to tears as he emerged for the second half to see a tribute unfurled in his final game at Celtic Park as “Joe, Joe super Joe” rang around the stadium.

Celtic fans showed their appreciation for their goalkeeper Joe Hart who was making his final appearance at Celtic Park against St Mirren.

Celtic started the second half strongly with Nicolas Kuhn’s effort blocked and a Kyogo strike saved by Zach Hemming.

St Mirren weren’t letting them have it their own way though and Olysanya came close twice in quick succession, knocking one wide and Nawrocki clearing the other.

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player
Palma scores for Celtic
A late Luis Palma goal means Celtic finish the season with a win as they see off a spirited St Mirren.

Callum McGregor handed Hart the captain’s armband as he was replaced before the goalkeeper was given an emotional farewell as he was substituted after Palma wrapped up the win, converting Anthony Ralston’s cross at the back post.
Rodgers: I realise what I missed

Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers hails his squad following their Scottish Premiership triumph. The Bhoys will now get set to take on Rangers next weekend in the Scottish Cup final.

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers on Sky Sports:

“It’s really special. It was a long, hard season – but we got there.

“I really take it in more now, I realise what I missed when I was away. But it’s been a brilliant season, you never get it all your own way.

“Taking over from anyone successful is, of course, a challenge – but in my career I’ve had to have the belief I can always help a team make a difference.

“You can only do it with top players and a great staff. And the supporters have been really with us, especially in these last couple of months.”

---

BBC

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/live/cedxx3qd9n5t?page=5#Report
Andy Campbell
BBC Scotland

Celtic ended their successful Scottish Premiership defence with an enthralling win against feisty St Mirren before being presented with the league trophy in the Glasgow sunshine.

Matt O’Riley cancelled out Mark O’Hara’s opener for St Mirren but O’Hara scored again from the penalty spot after Stephen Welsh had fouled Toyosi Olusanya.

Kyogo Furuhashi struck Celtic level before the break and Luis Palma forced in their late winner.

Brendan Rodgers’ side end their league season with 93 points and an eight-point advantage at the top.

St Mirren, in fifth, post a points return of 47 in their second successive season finishing in the top half.

Five goals, Hart’s farewell & Santa – how Celtic’s trophy day unfolded
Published
1 hour ago

Latest Celtic news

Keep up to date with St Mirren

After Welsh almost enhanced the party atmosphere with an early header wide of the St Mirren goal, the visitors took a surprise lead.

Richard Taylor and Olusanya tried to make a clean connection following a long throw-in and O’Hara pounced on Callum McGregor’s headed clearance with a powerful low shot past Joe Hart, denied a clean sheet on his final Celtic Park appearance.

O’Riley curved a shot wide of the St Mirren goal as Celtic tried to force a leveller but the midfielder found the net moments later.

The Denmark international played in Kyogo and then lashed in the loose ball after St Mirren’s Alex Gogic had intervened.

But the visitors dampened the excitement of the crowd once again.

The ball bounced over Welsh’s head and allowed Olusanya to bear down on goal. Welsh bundled him over and the video assistant referee (VAR) supported referee Matthew MacDermid’s decision to point to the spot.

O’Hara kept his cool to beat Hart to the keeper’s left.

Celtic had it all to do again but the ever reliable Kyogo and Reo Hatate delivered. Kyogo released Hatate on the right and then sped into the box to convert the eventual cross.

Kyogo almost scored from close range again early in the second half, denied by a fine Zach Hemming save, and an equally impressive tackle at the other end by Maik Nawrocki blocked Olusanya’s goal-bound shot.

A further Olusanya effort went wide when a pass may have been the better option.

There was one more big chance and it came Celtic’s way. O’Riley’s backheel set Ralston away on the right and his back-post cross was converted by Palma.

And, before full-time, Hart, having taken over the captaincy from McGregor, was given a standing ovation as he made way for Scott Bain.
Player of the match – Matt O’Riley (Celtic)
Matt O’Riley scores for Celtic against St MirrenImage source, SNS
Image caption,

The midfielder (right) netted his 19th goal of a fine season and had a hand in the winner
Thrilling end to the season – analysis

Rodgers made six changes to his starting line-up and it’s unlikely next Saturday’s Scottish Cup final line-up against Rangers will resemble this one.

The manager has relied largely on predecessor Ange Postecoglou’s team to get Celtic over the line in the league title race and a similar approach at Hampden would not be a surprise.

St Mirren boss Stephen Robinson spoke pre-match about the need to score during periods of ascendancy and O’Hara delivered on that front.

Defensively, they were put under enormous pressure in the second half and almost held out.

All in all, the entertainment on show was a fitting end to the Premiership season for both the champions and Europe-bound St Mirren.
What they said
Media caption,

Watch: Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers reacts to win over St Mirren

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers: “Despite all the changes, I thought we played some really, really good football on an extremely hot day and then just to cap it off with getting the goal late on typified the mentality of the team.

“So pleased for everyone. Pleased to have finished the league campaign strong, to have won the title and give a great day to the supporters. Overall, we come out of the game with the three points and a great way to celebrate.

“So, so pleased for [Joe Hart]. His enthusiasm, his leadership never tired. He leaves here next week a legend. It was a lovely day for him.”
Media caption,

Watch: St Mirren reacts to defeat by Celtic

St Mirren manager Stephen Robinson: “It’s another really good performance against Celtic, arguably the best we’ve played.

“The second goal’s a really poor goal to concede. The third goal’s really poor. We just switched off. It just shows how far we’ve come that perhaps we’re disappointed not to get a point.”
Media caption,

What’s next?

Holders Celtic take on Premiership runners-up Rangers in next Saturday’s Scottish Cup final (15:00 BST).

St Mirren’s season is at an end and they will enter the Europa Conference League at the second qualifying round stage in late July, with the draw in mid-June.

---

Police close roads as Celtic fans gather in Glasgow

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c25r05pgwzvo?at_link_type=web_link&at_format=link&at_medium=social&at_bbc_team=editorial&at_link_origin=BBCScotlandNews&at_campaign=Social_Flow&at_link_id=B2A6F88A-1531-11EF-96D9-A0E6E1DCBAB2&at_ptr_name=twitter&at_campaign_type=owned

Watch Celtic fans celebrate title win at Glasgow Cross

Published
18 May 2024, 10:27 BST

Updated 2 hours ago

Police have closed roads in Glasgow city centre as large crowds of Celtic fans gathered for an unofficial party to celebrate the team winning the Premiership trophy.

Glasgow city council have urged supporters to “respect the city” during the celebrations, following littering and anti-social behaviour last year.

The trophy was presented to the team at Celtic Park after they beat St Mirren 3-2.

Police Scotland said they will have proportionate policing in place to maintain public safety and minimise disruption in the city.

The league title had been decided before Saturday’s game but the home match gives fans the chance to celebrate their win.
Celtic team carry SPFL Premiership trophyImage source, Reuters
Image caption,

Goalkeeper Joe Hart carried the trophy into Celtic Park ahead of the match against St Mirren

Fans began congregating around Glasgow Cross and the Trongate soon after the match on Saturday.

As the crowd grew in size, fans let off flares and climbed on bus stops and statues.

There was a large police presence in the surrounding streets.

Council staff and the emergency services began preparing for the post-match celebrations on Friday.
‘Negative impact’

Writing on the social media site X, Glasgow city council said: “Glasgow is a football city – and proud to be home to some of the biggest teams in the game.

“Fans support their club, whatever the result – and when they win, celebrations are to be savoured. However, when things get out of hand there can be a negative impact on other Glaswegians and for visitors to our city.

“In recent year many people have felt uncomfortable and even unsafe when supporters have congregated in places like Trongate or George Square to celebrate.

“Residents and businesses have had to deal with the aftermath of littering, vandalism and other antisocial behaviour once the crowds have headed home.

“As this season reaches its conclusion over the next two weekends, we want everyone to be able to celebrate safely, responsibly and with consideration for others.

“Whoever you support, whatever the results – enjoy yourself but please respect the city.”
Celtic fans waving flags and banners in Glasgow
Image caption,

Flares and smoke have been released in the crowded streets
Fans at the Trongate
Image caption,

All roads around the unofficial celebration have been closed

In 2023, Celtic fans gathered at Glasgow Cross to celebrate the Premiership trophy win.

A spokesperson for the council said staff had to work “through the night” to clean up litter and repair broken street signs which had resulted in last minute road closures.

Three people were seriously assaulted during the celebrations with a 31-year-old man being taken to hospital in serious condition.

There were 10 arrests and reports of widespread anti-social behaviour.

Police Scotland warned Glasgow city centre is likely to be busier on Saturday as fans gather in the city to celebrate Celtic’s title win.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said:

“We’re working closely with partners and will have a proportionate policing plan in place to maintain public safety and minimise disruption to the community.”
Police vans in Trongate area of Glasgow
Image caption,

Police Scotland say they are working to minimise disruption in the area
‘We’ve not done well this season…’
Tony Roper outside Celtic Park
Image caption,

The much loved Scottish comedian couldn’t resist making a joke among the celebrations at Celtic Park today

Scottish actor and Celtic fan Tony Roper spoke to BBC Scotland as he was going into the stadium.

Asked if he was looking forward to the day, Mr Roper said: “I’m not looking forward to it all, I’m very unhappy.

“We’ve not done well this season, just as everybody predicted. Brendan’s been a flop, the team lost too many goals…wait a minute, what am I talking about?

“We’ve won it, we’ve won the league. I’m absolutely delighted, I can’t be any happier.”
Get in to

---

Five goals, Hart’s farewell & Santa – how Celtic’s trophy day unfolded

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/clkkg02ygrlo

Nick McPheat
BBC Sport Scotland

Published
1 hour ago

A five-goal thriller, an emotional farewell and an appearance from Santa in May.

Trophy days at Celtic Park are usually quite the occasion, but Saturday’s went above and beyond.

Here, BBC Scotland rounds up the best of the reaction from a wild day in the east end of Glasgow.

Celtic come from behind twice to beat St Mirren on trophy day

Relive Santa presenting Celtic with trophy & catch up with all the reaction

Visit our Celtic page for all the latest news, analysis and fan views

‘One of best trophy day atmospheres’

First, the game. On a day of ‘dead-rubbers’ in Premiership’s top-six finale, we were treated to 13 goals across three matches – five of which came at Celtic Park.

The champions had to come back twice to eventually claim a thrilling 3-2 win over St Mirren, with a Mark O’Hara double coming either side of Matt O’Riley’s strike before Kyogo Furuhashi notched another first-half equaliser.

In an end-to-end second period, Luis Palma rounded off Celtic’s league campaign with an 86th-minute winner to end their Premiership season on a high.

Manager Brendan Rodgers said the victory was “a great way to celebrate” a 12th top-flight title in 13 seasons.

“I thought we played some really, really good football on an extremely hot day,” he told BBC Scotland. “To cap it off with the late goal typified the team’s mentality.”

Speaking to Sky Sports, Celtic captain Callum McGregor added: “It’s one of the best atmospheres I’ve seen on trophy day.”

“You never get tired of success. This is why you play football and there’s not a more satisfying feeling than lifting that trophy above your head.”
‘Legend’ Hart’s emotional farewell
Media caption,

Joe Hart can add holding back his tears on Saturday to his list of career achievements.

There were some big puffs of the cheeks and looks of disbelief when the retiring goalkeeper watched an impressive fan tifo unfurl behind him at the start of the second half.

Not long after he had regained his composure, the former Manchester City and England keeper was having his heartstrings pulled again when he was substituted late on.

Serenaded by an adoring home crowd and embraced by almost every team-mate, the 37-year-old made way for Scott Bain with two minutes remaining in his final game of league football.

Addressing the Celtic support post-match, Hart said: “You guys are absolutely phenomenal. You’ve made me feel so special. Thank you so much for having me.”

Captain McGregor was next to take the mic and heaped praise on Hart by saying “he has been a real pillar of strength for the group”.

Rodgers echoed that view by adding that the goalkeeper “leaves here next week a legend”.
Okay, but why was Santa there?
Media caption,

The thought of anyone who does not know the context of Santa’s previous beef with Celtic fans watching Saturday’s post-match celebrations unfold is a rather amusing one, so let us explain.

Back in December, with Celtic losing at home to Hearts, Santa made a half-time appearance at Parkhead.

With the home support a bit tetchy and in no mood for Christmas cheer, the big man was booed. Unnecessarily cruel? Yes. But sort of funny.

Days later, Rangers brought their own Santa out at Ibrox with the League Cup trophy in their match with St Johnstone. In true Old Firm tit-for-tat fashion, he received a warm reception.

All this led to Celtic bringing Santa back out to present the team with the Premiership trophy on Saturday. With the home fans in party mode, he was welcomed with open arms this time around.

Further evidence that this league continues to provide patter on an unparalleled scale.

LIVE stream page 2

1. Postat 67 minutes

   67′

   Foul by Toyosi Olusanya (St. Mirren).

2. Substitutionat 66 minutes

   66′

   Substitution, St. Mirren. Ryan Strain replaces Elvis Bwomono.

3. Substitutionat 66 minutes

   66′

   Substitution, St. Mirren. Charles Dunne replaces Richard Taylor.

4. Substitutionat 66 minutes

   66′

   Substitution, Celtic. Liam Scales replaces Stephen Welsh because of an injury.

5. Postat 65 minutes

   65′

   Delay over. They are ready to continue.

6. Substitutionat 65 minutes

   65′

   Substitution, Celtic. Adam Idah replaces Kyogo Furuhashi.

7. Substitutionat 65 minutes

   65′

   Substitution, Celtic. Tomoki Iwata replaces Reo Hatate.

8. Postat 63 minutes

   63′

   Delay in match because of an injury Stephen Welsh (Celtic).

9. Postat 60 minutes

   60′

   Corner, St. Mirren. Conceded by Maik Nawrocki.

10. Postat 60 minutes

    60′

    Attempt blocked. Toyosi Olusanya (St. Mirren) left footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by Mark O’Hara with a headed pass.

11. Postat 60 minutes

    60′

    Foul by Callum McGregor (Celtic).

12. Postat 60 minutes

    60′

    Toyosi Olusanya (St. Mirren) wins a free kick in the defensive half.

13. Postat 58 minutes

    58′

    Attempt missed. Toyosi Olusanya (St. Mirren) right footed shot from the centre of the box is close, but misses to the right.

14. Postat 57 minutes

    57′

    Foul by Luis Palma (Celtic).

15. Postat 57 minutes

    57′

    Elvis Bwomono (St. Mirren) wins a free kick in the defensive half.

16. Postat 56 minutes

    56′

    Kyogo Furuhashi (Celtic) wins a free kick in the attacking half.

17. Postat 56 minutes

    56′

    Foul by Alex Gogic (St. Mirren).

18. Postat 55 minutes

    55′

    Corner, Celtic. Conceded by Alex Gogic.

19. Postat 54 minutes

    54′

    Reo Hatate (Celtic) wins a free kick in the defensive half.

20. Postat 54 minutes

    54′

    Foul by Keanu Baccus (St. Mirren).

LIVE stream page 3

1. Postat 53 minutes

   53′

   Foul by Callum McGregor (Celtic).

2. Postat 53 minutes

   53′

   Conor McMenamin (St. Mirren) wins a free kick in the defensive half.

3. Postat 52 minutes

   52′

   Foul by Greg Taylor (Celtic).

4. Postat 52 minutes

   52′

   Zach Hemming (St. Mirren) wins a free kick in the defensive half.

5. Postat 51 minutes

   51′

   Corner, Celtic. Conceded by Zach Hemming.

6. Postat 51 minutes

   51′

   Attempt saved. Kyogo Furuhashi (Celtic) left footed shot from the left side of the six yard box is saved in the bottom left corner. Assisted by Greg Taylor with a cross.

7. Postat 50 minutes

   50′

   Corner, Celtic. Conceded by Marcus Fraser.

8. Postat 50 minutes

   50′

   Corner, Celtic. Conceded by Caolan Boyd-Munce.

9. Postat 50 minutes

   50′

   Attempt blocked. Nicolas Kühn (Celtic) left footed shot from the left side of the six yard box is blocked.

10. Postat 49 minutes

    49′

    Corner, Celtic. Conceded by Elvis Bwomono.

11. Postat 48 minutes

    48′

    Offside, Celtic. Kyogo Furuhashi is caught offside.

12. Second Halfat 46 minutes

    46′

    Second Half begins Celtic 2, St. Mirren 2.

13. Half Timeat 45 minutes plus 3

    45’+3

    First Half ends, Celtic 2, St. Mirren 2.

14. Postat 45 minutes plus 2

    45’+2

    Corner, Celtic. Conceded by Richard Taylor.

15. Postat 45 minutes plus 2

    45’+2

    Delay over. They are ready to continue.

16. Postat 45 minutes plus 2

    45’+2

    Delay in match because of an injury Greg Taylor (Celtic).

17. Postat 45 minutes plus 1

    45’+1

    Corner, Celtic. Conceded by Mark O’Hara.

18. Postat 44 minutes

    44′

    Attempt missed. Reo Hatate (Celtic) left footed shot from the centre of the box is too high. Assisted by Greg Taylor with a through ball.

19. Postat 42 minutes

    42′

    Attempt missed. Anthony Ralston (Celtic) right footed shot from outside the box is high and wide to the right.

20. Postat 40 minutes

    40′

    Anthony Ralston (Celtic) wins a free kick in the defensive half.

LIVE stream page 4

1. Postat 40 minutes

   40′

   Foul by Toyosi Olusanya (St. Mirren).

2. Postat 38 minutes

   38′

   Attempt missed. Luis Palma (Celtic) header from the centre of the box misses to the left. Assisted by Kyogo Furuhashi with a cross following a fast break.

3. Goal!at 37 minutes

   37′

   Goal! Celtic 2, St. Mirren 2. Kyogo Furuhashi (Celtic) left footed shot from very close range to the bottom right corner. Assisted by Reo Hatate with a cross.

4. Postat 36 minutes

   36′

   Offside, Celtic. Kyogo Furuhashi is caught offside.

5. Postat 34 minutes

   34′

   Anthony Ralston (Celtic) wins a free kick in the defensive half.

6. Postat 34 minutes

   34′

   Foul by Marcus Fraser (St. Mirren).

7. Postat 33 minutes

   33′

   Corner, St. Mirren. Conceded by Maik Nawrocki.

8. Postat 33 minutes

   33′

   Attempt blocked. Keanu Baccus (St. Mirren) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Assisted by Toyosi Olusanya.

9. Postat 30 minutes

   30′

   Delay over. They are ready to continue.

10. Postat 29 minutes

    29′

    Delay in match because of an injury Stephen Welsh (Celtic).

11. Postat 29 minutes

    29′

    Delay in match because of an injury Keanu Baccus (St. Mirren).

12. Postat 29 minutes

    29′

    Corner, Celtic. Conceded by Elvis Bwomono.

13. Postat 26 minutes

    26′

    Goal! Celtic 1, St. Mirren 2. Mark O’Hara (St. Mirren) converts the penalty with a right footed shot to the top right corner.

14. Postat 24 minutes

    24′

    Penalty conceded by Stephen Welsh (Celtic) after a foul in the penalty area.

15. Postat 24 minutes

    24′

    Penalty St. Mirren. Toyosi Olusanya draws a foul in the penalty area.

16. Goal!at 21 minutes

    21′

    Goal! Celtic 1, St. Mirren 1. Matt O’Riley (Celtic) left footed shot from the left side of the box to the bottom left corner.

17. Postat 21 minutes

    21′

    Anthony Ralston (Celtic) wins a free kick in the defensive half.

18. Postat 21 minutes

    21′

    Foul by Mark O’Hara (St. Mirren).

19. Postat 20 minutes

    20′

    Attempt missed. Matt O’Riley (Celtic) left footed shot from the right side of the box is close, but misses the top left corner. Assisted by Anthony Ralston.

20. Postat 18 minutes

    18′

    Corner, Celtic. Conceded by Marcus Fraser.

LIVE stream page 5

1. Postat 13 minutes

   13′

   Corner, Celtic. Conceded by Elvis Bwomono.

2. Postat 12 minutes

   12′

   Foul by Matt O’Riley (Celtic).

3. Postat 12 minutes

   12′

   Caolan Boyd-Munce (St. Mirren) wins a free kick in the defensive half.

4. Postat 11 minutes

   11′

   Nicolas Kühn (Celtic) wins a free kick in the defensive half.

5. Postat 11 minutes

   11′

   Foul by Keanu Baccus (St. Mirren).

6. Postat 11 minutes

   11′

   Attempt missed. Richard Taylor (St. Mirren) header from the left side of the box misses to the right.

7. Goal!at 7 minutes

   7′

   Goal! Celtic 0, St. Mirren 1. Mark O’Hara (St. Mirren) right footed shot from the centre of the box to the bottom left corner.

8. Postat 3 minutes

   3′

   Stephen Welsh (Celtic) wins a free kick in the defensive half.

9. Postat 3 minutes

   3′

   Foul by Toyosi Olusanya (St. Mirren).

10. Postat 3 minutes

    3′

    Attempt missed. Stephen Welsh (Celtic) header from very close range misses to the right. Assisted by Luis Palma with a cross following a corner.

11. Postat 2 minutes

    2′

    Corner, Celtic. Conceded by Richard Taylor.

12. Postat 1 minute

    1′

    Attempt missed. Luis Palma (Celtic) right footed shot from outside the box is high and wide to the right. Assisted by Greg Taylor.

13. Kick Offat 1 minute

    1′

    First Half begins.

14. Postat 1 minute

    1′

    Lineups are announced and players are warming up.

---