St Mirren have opened the new Scottish Premiership season with maximum points, and manager Stephen Robinson's side, the reigning League Cup champions, are drawing strength from a difficult chapter in their recent history. Two wins from two matches, both accompanied by clean sheets, have given the Paisley club a platform they hope to build on throughout the campaign.speaking to BBC Scotland, the St Mirren boss explained that last season's harrowing play-off experience continues to serve as a driving force behind the squad's efforts. "I'm still using that as fuel," he said. "I don't want to be involved in that. We've got a massive journey ahead of us and we have to keep building. Six points out of six is a great start."
The manager described how last term's play-off ties were fraught with anxiety, admitting the nerves affected his players before they even took to the pitch. He believes that memory has since become a valuable tool for fostering unity and confidence within the squad. "It helps with the belief in each other. I've said to the boys I have confidence in them," he explained, before recalling the tension of those fixtures. "Last season, we had two horrendous play-off games - even the emotion about it, there were so much nerves when we stepped on the pitch."
Looking ahead, the St Mirren manager stressed that resilience and defensive solidity will remain central pillars of his team's identity this season. "We have to be horrible to play against. Two clean sheets sets us up well for that," he said, adding that maintaining intensity in training and matches is non-negotiable. "We want to be really good at the basics and not get bored of that. The running, energy and desire. We want to be fit and strong and relentless this season against whoever we play. We have to keep those standards really high. We did it last week and lived up to it again."
That philosophy has been echoed by new signing Jacob Chapman, the goalkeeper who has quickly settled into the squad. Chapman's crucial penalty save in the second half of the recent match helped pave the way for Killian Phillips to convert from the spot moments later. Reflecting on the collective effort that has underpinned the strong start, Chapman highlighted the commitment shown throughout the team. "Defenders throwing their bodies on the line; [Alex] Gogic throwing his head here and everywhere," he told BBC Scotland. "Even the attackers coming back and helping defend."
Chapman added that such consistency early in the campaign sets an important tone, even if it does not guarantee sustained success. "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. And it's what a great season looks like at the start. We've started well. A bit scrappy in some areas and we need to clean that out, but there was still some really nice football getting played in certain areas."
Much of St Mirren's attacking output has come from midfielder Killian Phillips, who has scored all three of the club's Premiership goals so far this season. The 24-year-old, who is closing in on 100 appearances for the Buddies, has become a central figure in the team's approach. The manager acknowledged that Phillips, given his current form, could attract interest from elsewhere, but insisted the club's development-focused model means such outcomes are part of the plan. "If he attracts interest, then great. We're doing our job. I'm doing my job," he said. "I believe that the longer he stays and plays with me and with us, I'll get him the best move he possibly can. And if that's this window then fine. If it's in January, if we get him to the end of the season, it's part of it and we have to be prepared for any outcome. But we're just delighted to have him as part of our group. He's a massive part of it. And, if he keeps playing like that, his future takes care of itself."
Based on reporting from BBC Sport Football.