Celtic are now five points clear at the top of the Scottish Premier League after beating St Mirren 2- 0.

Paddy McCourt was the standout player for the visiting Celtic fans with a superb strike in the first half.

He was joined by a curling shot from Shaun Maloney at 78 minutes to make sure the points were in the bag for Celtic.

Celtic played captain Stephen McManus in place of Gary Caldwell who is ensnared in a contract dispute with the club.

The decisive Celtic victory left St Mirren with their 19-year record of defeat against the Bhoys.

The win puts Celtic ahead of Rangers (playing later Saturday) as both sides prepare for the first Old Firm match of the season.