Joe Hart is regularly criticised, it’s only fair we praise him when he does well…
Celtic v Ross County – Celtic goalkeeper Joe Hart warms up before the cinch Premiership match at Celtic Park, Saturday August 5, 2023. Photo Steve Welsh
The Celtic goalkeeper is regularly the subject of criticism by the Celtic support. Sometimes it is perhaps deserved, other times not. The English shot-stopper has done some great things in his two years here, and yes he does have the odd mistake in him, as all keepers do, but in the main I’d say he’s done very well in his Celtic career.
Perhaps like most keepers his errors are highlighted more than his saves, and Saturday was one of those examples when his good form went somewhat unnoticed. He produced two late vital stops in a game when he was virtually a spectator. That’s the sign of a good goalkeeper.
One point was bad, but none would have been a travesty, and Joe earned that point with his shot stopping ability. His first save looked a certain goal but he managed to put it round the post with a strong hand, it was a magnificent stop. His second was more one you’d expect him to make, but he done his job all the same.
This is after a draw goalless against St Johnstone but it could have been much worse if it wasn’t for Joe Hart’s saves.
He is regularly criticised and most times deservedly so, but on Saturday he deserved the plaudits. He along with Yang were the only player to get pass marks in my view and you can also read Sandman’s Definitive Ratings for his take on each individual player’s performance.
So it’s only fair that we highlight Joe Hart’s ability and his contribution if we are going to, as a support, highlight his occasional failings. I still maintain we need a quality new goalkeeper to challenge Joe Hart for the gloves, but at the moment Joe is the man in possession of the gloves and he deserves our 100% backing. And to be truthful there are other areas in more need of upgrading than the first pick goalkeeper.
Just an Ordinary Bhoy
Help raise funds for Celtic Youth Academy by playing the Celtic Pools Weekly Lottery and you could win up to £25,000. The lottery is £1 per week and if you join today you will receive a Champions League Scarf.
Help raise funds for Celtic Youth Academy by playing the Celtic Pools Weekly Lottery and you could win up to £25,000. The lottery is £1 per week and if you join today you will receive a Champions League Scarf.
