Celtic marked the start of the new Premiership season with a 1-0 win over St Mirren at Celtic Park, as Luke McCowan struck the decisive goal on a day filled with emotion and celebration.

The occasion was made even more special with club legend Paul McStay returning to unfurl the league flag in front of a packed home crowd.

McStay, regarded as one of the greatest ever to wear the green and white, was given a rousing ovation as he stepped onto the pitch before kick-off. His presence clearly inspired the players, none more so than McCowan, who ensured Celtic began their title defence with three points.

The midfielder’s crisp finish in the second half proved the difference in a tightly contested match, with Brendan Rodgers’ men having to work hard to break down a stubborn St Mirren side. While the goal was vital, McCowan was quick to shift the attention to the man of the moment.

Having grown up aware of McStay’s legendary status at the club,

McCowan admitted it was a privilege to share the stage with him on such a significant day. Speaking after the match, he made it clear how much the occasion, and McStay’s presence, meant to him.

He said: (Celtic FC YouTube), “He (Paul McStay) can come to every game if I’m going to do that.

“But no, it’s just nice to have somebody like that around the place.

“You can see what he meant to the fans with the applause he got at the start.

“It’s brilliant. So no, credit to them, and it’s amazing to see him.”

McCowan’s goal made sure Celtic marked Flag Day in the best possible way, starting the season with a win and a reminder of the club’s proud history. The crowd enjoyed a day that brought together the club’s past and its ambitions for the future.

It was a rare sight to see a current player speak so openly about his respect for a Celtic legend, showing the strong link between different generations. McStay’s impact on Celtic goes well beyond his playing days, and moments like this show just how much he still means to the support.

For McCowan, this could be the perfect way to launch his Celtic career. If he keeps producing big moments, he will win over the Parkhead support quickly – much like McStay did in his own time.

Celtic will now focus on the games ahead, but Flag Day 2025, and McCowan’s nod to McStay, will remain a standout memory from the early part of this season.