Celtic’s Struggles and Triumphs in a Hard-Fought Victory
Celtic faced a challenging match against Hibs at Easter Road, where they had to overcome several obstacles to secure a 2-1 win. The victory came at a cost, with the team needing a late goal from Kelechi Iheanacho in the 72nd minute to claim the three points. Despite the win, manager Martin O’Neill admitted that his side was their own worst enemies during the game.
The match started with Celtic in control, but they struggled to convert their chances into goals. Daizen Maeda opened the scoring before Hibs captain Joe Newell equalized in the first half, sparking controversy over whether he used his arm to control the ball. O’Neill acknowledged the contentious nature of the goal, but he remained focused on the result.
“It would have been lovely if we’d got a third goal. It gives you something. But overall, delighted to have won,” O’Neill said. “Just a nervy ending in a game that I think we might have been our own worst enemies.”
He also reflected on how the game unfolded, noting that Celtic played better when Hibs had 11 men on the pitch. “I thought we started the game strongly, spurned a couple of really good chances, then we get the goal. Their man was sent off as well too, so I thought a few things went in our favour.”
O’Neill emphasized the importance of the win, especially considering the upcoming clash between Hearts and Rangers. He admitted he wasn’t sure who he wanted to win the game, stating, “I genuinely don’t know. We’ve won today, so there’s a bit of relief for 24 hours.”
Key Player Contributions
Kelechi Iheanacho played a crucial role in securing the victory, coming off the bench to score the decisive goal. O’Neill praised the Nigerian forward for his impact, despite his limited playing time due to injury. “He’s done that for the last number of weeks for us. You know, he scores [the winner] at Dundee in April, and essentially, it changes the game.”
Iheanacho has been a consistent performer for Celtic, even though he has missed much of the season. O’Neill explained the cautious approach taken with his return: “There is the danger that you don’t give him enough time to get on the pitch, because you could spend 10 minutes on him not getting into the game. So, that’s something that we’re trying our best with. And so far, it’s worked out for us at the minute.”
Controversial Goal and Referee Influence
The equalizer by Newell sparked debate among fans and players alike. O’Neill admitted that he would have been more upset had the decision cost them the game. “The truth is, I probably would have a different opinion and a different answer to you had we lost the game.”
He also mentioned the role of assistant referee Gavin Strachan, who monitors the game closely. “I have the little monitor to the side, which Gavin Strachan sort of controls there. So I’m probably listening to what he’s saying as much as anything else.”
A Return to Form
Defender Alistair Johnston made his first start since October after recovering from a long-term injury. His performance was impressive, culminating in an assist for Maeda’s opening goal. O’Neill praised his contribution, saying, “His overall performance, I thought, was really good. I think he has been missed, obviously, during the course of the season.”
Johnston’s return has been a positive sign for the team, with O’Neill expressing confidence in his abilities. “They tell me that Alistair is a proper player. And from the bits that I’ve seen in the training that we’ve done, and in these games, you can see that. He’s been a major player for the club.”
Looking Ahead
With the win, Celtic remains in the title race, but O’Neill knows the challenges ahead. The upcoming match between Hearts and Rangers will be pivotal, and he admits he doesn’t know who he wants to win. However, for now, the focus is on celebrating the hard-fought victory and preparing for the next challenge.
