Aaron Mooy was over the moon to mark his first start of the Scottish Premier League season with a goal on the weekend.

The 21-year old Australian U23 international netted for St Mirren in the 44th minute of their 2-1 home victory over reigning champions Rangers and was delighted to return in style after five months out with a stress fracture in his back.

"The gaffer told me before the game he was going to start me and I had a big smile on my face," said the former Bolton Wanderers youth.

"It was a surprise and I was happy to get on the pitch, let alone score a goal.

"I suffered the injury right at the start of pre-season, it has been a frustrating time. I slid in for a tackle and when I tried to get up I had a lot of pain in my back.

"I tried to play on but I couldn't and I had to come off. I had the X-ray and they told me I'd a stress fracture.

"I knew something was up because I was in a lot of pain and was struggling to do normal things.

"I was told it was going to take at least three months before I'd be back but it affects people differently and could be up to 12.

"I was disappointed and upset - I was worrying about it all the time.

"So it was quite a relief when I came on against Motherwell because I have had to work hard to get fit again. I just want to play well for the team and it was a great feeling to score against Rangers."

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