Postecoglou subs shut door on challenger hopes

Analysing Celtic performances has become more complicated recently.  The first half in Dingwall saw the visitors create enough chances to be four goals ahead; Kyogo, alone, scored, hit the crossbar and had the easiest chance of the game saved.  After the break, Malky Mackay tightened the middle of the park to such an extent that Celtic spent 20 minutes in a battle of attrition with Ross County until three substitutions sorted things out.  The outcome was never in any serious doubt, but it took a goal from Jota in the closing minutes to confirm the points were heading back to Glasgow.

As you well know, we are at the stage of the season when the value of a SWOT analysis is less important than immediate outcomes.  A week after their first domestic defeat since September, Celtic wanted to shut the door on whatever hopes their immediate challengers had on narrowing the gap at the top.

Ross County had not lost at home since Celtic travelled there last year, the game presented a credible threat to Ange Postecoglou’s plans, but the manager was able to drop a gear when required and motor ahead.  Any serious doubts on where the title is going this season were surely extinguished with Jota’s clincher.

The movement, ability to float in the air and finish Kyogo showed at his goal reminded a few of us of a player we used to watch.  Whatever his comparative merits, he is undoubtedly a talent to be cherished.