MacPherson was delighted with goalscorer Stephen McGinn

"St Mirren Football Club and its players have their pride back," MacPherson told BBC Sport after the 1-1 draw against SPL leaders Celtic.

"Albeit we had to defend for long periods, to get a point from a team of Celtic's quality is a worthy point.

"They defended superbly - as if their lives depended on it."

Interview: St Mirren manager Gus MacPherson

MacPherson knew that his side would put in an improved performance.

"We got criticised last week, for our play, our tactics, for everything," he said.

It's amazing how football throws up these stories Gus MacPherson

"But they are a fantastic group of players and I saw the reaction in training."

MacPherson was not too disappointed to have lost a late equaliser.

"I am realistic enough to understand that everything was coming at us at that point," he said.

"The substitutions were forced on us and you don't like to do that when you are bedded in - and that cost us."

St Mirren's goal was scored by 19-year-old midfielder Stephen McGinn - the grandson of the former Celtic chairman, Jack.

It was his second appearance for the Buddies - and the second time he had scored at Celtic Park.

"It's amazing how football throws up these stories," said MacPherson.

"He has been playing very well for the reserves, he has a fantastic attitude, is really fit and works extremely hard.