3 talking points as Celtic awake from St Mirren slumber after Cameron Carter Vickers sparks roaring second half

League leaders Celtic gutted out a 2-0 win over St Mirren to maintain their three-point advantage over title rivals Rangers.

Cameron Carter-Vickers was the hero as his powerful half-volley hit the net in the 55th minute to pop a hole in the pressure bubble building inside Celtic Park.

Captain Callum McGregor made no doubt with an emphatic finish to down Stephen Robinson's stuffy side amid much resistance.

Ange Postecoglou's men once again lacked the offensive fireworks which have illuminated their season but their was a steely resolve which got them over the line.

And the vital victory keeps them three clear of Rangers.

The Buddies contained the league leaders well but all their early good work was almost undone by one reckless slash of the boot from Charles Dunne.

The Irishman got just enough on it to spin it up in the air but exhaled when it landed on top of Jak Alnwick's crossbar.

But outwith of that moment of terror for the visitors, it was relatively sedate but Daizen Maeda was the flicker of light for a side who appeared to have escaped the lethargy which beset them against Hibs.

The Japanese striker would claim a dummy but his fresh air swipe led to Liel Abada getting a shot away from 10 yards out but Alnwick showed his superior shot-stopping ability.

But the Saints had their own moment and Hart did well to hold firm as he beat Joe Shaughnessy to the ball after Carl Starfelt's tackle slowed Curtis Main.

Plenty of huffing and puffing ensued before the interval with Josip Juranovic and the aforementioned Maeda both cursing their luck as speculative efforts didn't hit the target.

Jota was next to try his luck but his tepid attempt was gleefully palmed away by Alnwick with Maeda in his line of vision.

But the