St Mirren Start Strongly Using Relegation Scare as ‘Fuel’

St Mirren’s rapid rise from near-relegation to Scottish Premiership leaders after two matches is a stark reminder of football’s unpredictability. The team’s turnaround, led by manager Craig McLeish’s “back to basics” approach, has been swift and effective.

Last year, St Mirren teetered on the brink of relegation before securing a play-off spot, leaving supporters and observers wondering if they would ever regain their footing as a top-flight contender. McLeish has spoken about using that trauma as motivation for their current success. “I’m still using that as fuel,” he told BBC Scotland. “I don’t want to be involved in that.”

McLeish’s emphasis on hard work, fitness, and relentless pursuit of excellence seems to have paid off, with St Mirren earning six points from their opening two matches without conceding a goal. Their 2-0 win over St Johnstone was particularly impressive, given the Saints’ struggles in similar situations last season.

The team’s newfound cohesion is evident on the pitch, with players like Killian Phillips – the 24-year-old midfielder who has already scored three crucial goals this term – leading by example. McLeish aims to keep Phillips at St Mirren for as long as possible, despite the club’s policy of developing and moving players on. “I believe that the longer he stays and plays with me and with us, I’ll get him the best move he possibly can,” McLeish said.

Phillips’ influence extends beyond his goal-scoring exploits; he sets the tone for the team’s performances. New goalkeeper Jacob Chapman noted, “It sets the tempo for the season. It doesn’t mean you’re going to win every game or even have a great season, but it definitely helps.”

St Mirren’s model of developing young players and selling them on at a profit has been successful in the past, but McLeish’s comments suggest he is committed to keeping Phillips for as long as possible. If that means resisting offers from other clubs, then so be it – McLeish seems determined to give his star midfielder the platform to showcase his abilities.

As St Mirren continue their impressive start to the season, one question lingers: can they sustain this level of performance? The Scottish Premiership is notoriously unpredictable, and even the best teams have off days. But for now, at least, McLeish’s “back to basics” approach has given them a solid foundation upon which to build.

The contrast between this season and last year’s drama serves as a reminder that football is as much about mentality as it is about tactics. St Mirren’s resilience in the face of adversity is a testament to McLeish’s leadership, using their near-relegation experience as motivation rather than allowing it to weigh them down.

St Mirren’s turnaround has implications beyond their own league campaign. Their success serves as a beacon of hope for other teams struggling in the lower reaches of the Scottish Premiership, reminding them that it’s never too late to turn things around. As Phillips and his teammates continue to excel on the pitch, they’ll be giving fans across Scotland plenty to cheer about this season.

The question now is whether St Mirren can maintain their momentum. Only time will tell, but for now, at least, they’re back in contention – and that’s all anyone can ask for.