Harambee Stars Striker Jonah Ayunga on Target as St Mirren Push Celtic to the Brink on Trophy Day

Jonah Ayunga was in fine form as he fired home a powerful strike to give St Mirren hope of a famous win at Celtic Park.

Harambee Stars Striker Jonah Ayunga on Target as St Mirren Push Celtic to the Brink on Trophy Day

Festus Chuma 18:12 - 17.05.2025

Ayunga made a big impact at Celtic Park with a brilliant strike as St Mirren delivered a spirited performance throughout.

Harambee Stars striker Jonah Ayunga scored a stunning goal to put St Mirren on the verge of a historic win at Celtic Park, only to be denied at the death by James Forrest’s record-breaking strike in a dramatic 1-1 draw.

Ayunga’s goal, coming just after half-time, looked set to secure only the Buddies’ second victory at Parkhead in their last 38 visits.

The 27-year-old forward pounced on a defensive lapse, firing low into the bottom corner past Kasper Schmeichel, silencing the home crowd and briefly igniting St Mirren’s hopes of a late push for European football.

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Stephen Robinson’s side, already enjoying an unbeaten run since the Scottish Premiership split, produced a composed and disciplined performance that frustrated the champions for long stretches.

Their shape, pressing, and relentless work rate denied Celtic space and rhythm, with goalkeeper Zach Hemming largely untested during a flat first half from the hosts.

Ayunga’s strike was a reward for St Mirren’s organisation and belief. When Celtic failed to clear a routine free-kick, the Kenyan forward reacted quickest, showing composure and precision to tuck away his fourth goal of the campaign.

Despite the late heartbreak, Ayunga’s influence was undeniable, leading the line with physicality and intelligence while giving Celtic’s defence persistent problems.

Celtic, already crowned champions, lacked their usual intensity. It wasn’t until the final half hour, with the introduction of James Forrest, Yang Hyun-Jun, and Luke McCowan, that the home side began to show signs of urgency.

Hemming was finally forced into action late on, denying Johnny Kenny and Yang as Celtic pushed for a late equaliser.

The 32-year-old winger, Celtic’s most decorated player of all time, latched onto a loose ball and drilled a low shot beyond Hemming to mark his 16th consecutive scoring season – a new club record.

Even with a win, St Mirren would not have climbed above sixth place due to Dundee United’s victory over Aberdeen.

Nonetheless, Robinson’s men can take immense pride in their post-split form, finishing the season unbeaten in five games with nine points collected from a possible 15.

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