"CLARKSON’S on fire" roared the boisterous band of Buddies at the Tony Macaroni Arena, adopting the Will Grigg chant which swept this summer’s European Championship’s in France.
Little wonder, too. The veteran striker certainly proved too hot to handle for Livingston, netting an astonishing brace to secure a thrilling 3-2 win for St Mirren in the Betfred Cup opener.
It may only be the middle of July but there is every chance the supporters of the Paisley outfit have already witnessed their goal of the season. The only question is which of David Clarkson’s entries to choose.
He took just 15 minutes to illuminate the new campaign. John Sutton showed strength and nous to produce a delightful cushioned header down for his strike-partner, who unleashed a splendid volley into the top-corner from 20 yards.
Livingston completed a laudable turnaround as goals from the superb Nicky Cadden and debutant Dale Carrick gave them a 2-1 lead, only for Lewis Morgan to almost swiftly restore parity.
Clarkson would have the last word, however. The experienced front-man latched on to an inviting bouncing ball 25 yards from goal and proceeded to fire an unstoppable drive beyond Kelly.
“[Clarkson’s] two goals were brilliant,” lauded St Mirren boss Alex Rae. “We had the same here last season when Lawrence Shankland scored two terrific goals, so it was great to have that again with Clarky.
“He has been really impressive in pre-season, That is seven goals in four games for him now so he has taken no time at at all to settle this season.
"Big Sutty has scored a few as well, so there has been a good partnership there at times.”
Ordinarily Scottish sides would still be on the beach at this time of year so, in this maiden foray in to summer football, it would be foolish to draw any premature conclusions from an experimental Betfred Cup group phase.
However, both these sides illustrated plenty of cause for optimism. Morgan, Clarkson and Stevie Mallan were content threats for a St Mirren which looks to have balance, strength and a potent attack.
Livi, meanwhile, were excellent at times and, in young Cadden, look to have the sort of waspish winger who will light up League 1.
“I thought we totally dominated the second half, scored two great goals and all-in-all I am happy with the performance,” said Livi boss David Hopkin. “The only disappointment is that we haven’t managed to take something from the game.”
LIVINGSTON (4-2-3-1) Kelly; Halkett, Lithgow, Crighton, Longridge; Sinclair (Pittman 59), Miller; Cadden, Buchanan (Carrick 66), Mullin (Orr 75); Mullen. Subs not used: Jamieson, Knox, Byrne, Watt.
ST MIRREN (4-4-2): S Gallacher; Naismith, Webster, Baird, Irvine; C Gallacher (Hutton 68), Quinn (Stewart 88), Mallan, Morgan; Clarkson, Sutton. Subs not used: Langfield, Gordon, Flanagan, O’Keefe.
Ref: G Duncan
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