The Green Brigade returned to take up their rightful place in the North Curve section of the ground they unfurled a banner before the game “Everyone has their particular part to play” . They did play a big part in creating noise and colour for over 90 minutes. From my viewing point in the main stand I noticed there was not a heavy Police presence visual near the section.
The Bhoys Ultras in their corner of the stadium also brought the noise and like the GB sang for 90 minutes. The scene was set before kick off! A sold out Celtic Park, the Fields of Athenry being belted out, scarfs above our heads and the players come out of the huddle to a big cheer. The sun was shining it was game on. 3pm football on a Saturday as it should be.
Celtic had to do the business to keep in touch with leaders Hearts who also kicked off at the traditional football kick off time. One eye was on the phone screen to see how they were doing it turned out they won 3-1. Motherwell had took the lead on the 50 minute but could not hold on but its all about what Celtic do and they held out for a 1-0 unconvincing win.
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Alex Oxlade Chamberlain kept his place in midfield and paid the managers faith in sticking with him with the winning goal. He also picked up the man of the match award which would have been a hard pick for the sponsors because no one performed to levels required to win the title.
A former player commented to me over a half time pie and Bovril that he did not think Celtic played friendly games in April. That just about summed up the game. We sat for 90 minutes waiting for some excitement but apart from the goal and the relief of 3 points at full time it was a poor game.
At times Martin O’Neill cut a frustrated figure on the sideline but he did get the win and after the game he said “The energy levels concern me a bit, we didn’t seem to have that. “For long periods in the second half, St Mirren were in control. However, we dug in and defended strongly to keep the clean sheet.”
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It was not pretty but it was 3 points and a clean sheet but if we are to progress in the Scottish Cup next week we will need to see improvement throughout the team. Likewise if we are to win the league the players will need to show more desire and find the energy that was lacking on Saturday.
All our thoughts now turn to Hampden next Sunday and another encounter with St. Mirren at the national stadium and chance to banish the League Cup final defeat earlier in the season.
Andrew Milne is Editor of More than 90 Minutes & Host of the Celtic Soul Podcast
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