Battling point will inspire us as we move on, maintains Oran

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Kearney added: “We are delighted and we have worked very hard on a game plan to hold them and also have a few attacks.

“In the first half we were really good but we tired in the second half and Celtic are good at what they do. I didn’t see a big difference between 10 and 11 men so that’s credit to how good Celtic are.

“It’s been a tough few months for our guys but we are upbeat after this performance and result. It’s been a good week.

“The players have taken on so much in the short time we have had together so I’m delighted with them.

“Our home fans were outstanding, they got up and going and that helped the players.”

Rodgers was unhappy with the sending off of Ntcham, who received a second booking for a lunge on Stephen McGinn seven minutes before the end of the first half.

“It obviously wasn’t easy because it was Oran’s first game and with it being on television they showed plenty of spirit,” said the Carnlough man.

“We played better before the sending off. I thought it was a poor decision from the referee and between all the officials they didn’t get too many decisions right.

“I thought the first booking was fine but for the second incident there was no contact with the player but because the crowd are vocal the referee books him.

“I don’t like to criticise the referees but I felt all of the officials didn’t have a great game.”

St Mirren, who conceded 12 goals in their last four games under Alan Stubbs, are clearly galvanised under Kearney.