That was far from a vintage Celtic performance today and there is no sugar-coating it. But it’s job done and in the cold light of day, probably panned out as expected, due to the fact that we were missing Reo Hatate and Aaron Mooy in the central midfield area this afternoon up at Dingwall. By goodness but it was a dull game for the most part.
It’s becoming a real chore at times watching the Hoops play against the likes of Ross County and Livingston. The opposing coaches just aren’t up for making a game of it and the monotonous regularity with which we have to play with the ball for 90 minutes explains why Scottish football is considered a backwater in some circles throughout the sport.
It’s becoming harder and harder to defend the national League when team a play football like this. This isn’t even remotely similar to Scotland and how they overcame Spain last Tuesday. It’s not even playing to your strengths; how can you even play the game if your unwilling to even venture out of your own half at times? It’s turgid, restrictive and doesn’t make for a good product to those that appraise the value of the SPFL. It really is that simple.
I digress though…
Strange afternoon it was, as the Hoops managed to get a penalty decision from VAR that actually went in their favour. And please, Malk MacKay and the rest of the Scottish media – quit your bleeting about Celtic getting calls that go their way, it’s about bloody time let me tell you that one for nothing! For ages now we’ve not had a shred of luck when it comes to that technology and the dunderheids that are entrusted with its implementation.
It was the ideal time to get the breakthrough and Jota stepped up to the mark with another from the 12-yard-spot. He wasn’t at his best today and neither was Matt O’Riley who I like very much as a player, but has undeniably went severely off the boil this season. A lack of confidence is evident and his stalling on the ball only confirms that. He really struggled today and I would start Turnbull next week if Reo and Mooy aren’t fit.
Talking of fitness issues, I hope to God that Greg Taylor is fit for next week as it was his removal from the side that day in January that caused our performance levels and fluidity to dip to unfathomable levels for an Ange Postecoglou side. It was an absolute belting goal from young Alexandro Bernabei, but he still isn’t ready for that kind of game at Celtic Park next week, even with no away fans.
He’s still wet behind the ears and showed at times today he can be suspect in possession at times. With Sakala on the prowl, I wouldn’t be comfortable without Greg Taylor in situ of I’m being brutally honest. But kudos to the wee man for his goal today and hopefully it gives him a platform to develop into the role at Celtic.
So, another one bites the dust as we tick down the clock to next week’s do-or-die match for the Ibrox mob at the home of the Scottish Premiership Champions. We just need to stay the course, keep calm and always remember to trust the process because we never stop!
Onwards and upwards, Bhoys!
Paul Gillespie
