Celtic have regained their nine point lead at the top of the Cinch Premiership after beating Dundee United at Tannadice. The Scottish Champions won 2-0 thanks to goals from Jota and Aaron Mooy.
Ange Postecoglou’s side found a way to win. They were dominant, United were stubborn but eventually they were ground down by Celtic’s quality.
1. Aaron Mooy & Jota
The goalscorers were in sparkling form as they pressed and probed United. The hosts struggled to deal with the Portuguese winger and the Australian midfielder and this was clear for the opener. Mooy’s cross went well over Birighitti but Jota’s run was unchecked, allowing him to ghost in and finish at a tight angle.
2. VAR plays a part…again
Kyogo was cleared out by United goalie Birighitti prompting Don Robertson to point to the spot. Immediately, Robertson said to the United players that VAR would check it. Eventually, he went across and decided that he was wrong. Although, it wasn’t conclusive. Kyogo was cleared out so that goalkeeper could reach the ball. No penalty. Robertson relied upon the VAR Official to save his blushes after missing a blatant handball from Freeman. The defender, who was already booked, blatantly handled the ball allowing Aaron Mooy to score.
3. 50 Scottish Premiership wins for Ange
Ange notched up his 50th Premiership win as Celtic manager, coming in 61 games. Ange matched the rate at which Brendan Rodgers secured his 50th win. Only Martin O’Neill is reached this figure at a quicker rate. The Australian is building something special at the club and it’ll be interesting to see how the team progresses in the next few weeks with new signings integrating.
4. Quality on the bench
Celtic’s starting XI this afternoon arguably its strongest. However, the quality and strength on the bench is outstanding. Ange is able to call upon quality alternatives as well as versatile options for a number of positions. Matt O’Riley, Oh, Turnbull and Maeda all came on and there were a few others that could’ve easily come on and impacted upon the game.
5. Oh makes his debut
With 81 minutes on the clock, Kyogo was replaced by South Korean striker Oh, who joined this week. The 21-year-old was serenaded by the Celtic support before, during and after the sun was made will be keen to make his mark. The attacker was back showing his work rate and strength as he battled for possession in the dying stages. The player appears willing to come short and bring others into play. His cross at the end for Maeda teased what is to come.
Celtic now face Livingston on Wednesday night whilst theRangers travel to Hearts.
