On This Day in 2007, Shunsuke Nakamura curled a late free-kick into the back of the net to send the Celtic supporters wild. His goal, an injury-time winner, sealed the League title for Gordon Strachan’s men. Fast forward fifteen years and another late goal have had consequences for the destination of one title as Killie left it late to score a winner at Rugby Park.
Arbroath had taken the lead in the first half and a spirited display ensued only for two late goals to seal the title for Derek McInnes’ side.
NO IDEA WHO SCORED BUT WE SCORED
2-1 KILLIE pic.twitter.com/b6LTbCHMBi
— Kilmarnock FC (@KilmarnockFC) April 22, 2022
🔵⚪ Champions of the @cinchuk Championship 🏆@KilmarnockFC return to the top flight at the first time of asking 💪#cinchChamp pic.twitter.com/AerFRIBzXH
— SPFL (@spfl) April 22, 2022
The victory over Arbroath means that Killie have been promoted to the Premiership at the first time of asking. The plastic pitch in Ayrshire is one of the worst in the Scottish game and its return will make for another tough away venue with Derek McInnes’ side looking to climb the top table next year.
Celtic have enjoyed some famous wins at Rugby Park, even winning a few titles down there. However, the installation of the plastic pitch as well as the decision to cut the away allocation made it a poor away trip. Hopefully, they remedy their mistake on the ticket front even if the pitch is there to stay.
15 years ago today, Kilmarnock 1:2 Celtic.
Stunning last minute freekick from Nakamura wins the title for Celtic. Big Jan with the opening goal. @JanVofH pic.twitter.com/5kxhDhMlCs
— Li'l Ze (@LilZe_7) April 21, 2022
It remains to be seen who will drop out of the league but Dundee appears to be the prime contender as they sit rooted to the bottom.
