Celtic are now turning their focus elsewhere following a dramatic Glasgow Derby stalemate last weekend at Ibrox.
We all now know the tale of the tape, as goals from Daizen Maeda, Matt O’Riley and Adam Idah earned what could prove to be a valuable point for the Bhoys despite a late fightback from the hosts.
Nevertheless, nothing could be determined on the scoreline front, and Brendan Rodgers made his appreciation known post-match regarding his side’s bravery, as they turned in a spirited performance in difficult circumstances.
The Irishman stated: “We’re disappointed not to win, but to leave here with it all in our hands is what we wanted – for that, I’m really proud.”
Rangers manager Philippe Clement recounted a slightly different version of events, claiming his outfit were the ‘moral winners’ on derby day, which doesn’t make much sense in any context.
Heading into our last round of pre-split fixtures, Celtic take on St Mirren at home this Saturday, which will offer the Bhoys a chance to top the Scottish Premiership should they claim three points.
Of course, our rivals could reach the summit tomorrow night by defeating Dundee; nevertheless, it appears there are still plenty of twists and turns to come in the title race.
Neil Lennon refutes Phillipe Clement’s ‘moral winners’ claim
Former Celtic manager Neil Lennon has unsurprisingly taken issue with Clement’s comments, indicating that they don’t stand to reason when taking into account the end result.
The 51-year-old has moved to call out his claim, and has also signalled his belief that Rangers aren’t all they are made out to be by some in media circles.
He stated [PLZ Soccer]: “I was disappointed with some of his comments yesterday; I didn’t agree with it; I don’t know what a moral victory means in an Old Firm Derby. You either win it or you lose it.”
Later on, he said tongue-in-cheek: “Back in the day, if we’d of drawn 3-3 at Celtic Park, you’d have been booed off.”
Finishing up, Lennon opined: “I’m not convinced they’re the team people are making them out to be at the minute. I think they’ve been good. I think they’re competent, but when they go up against a quality team, they struggle.”
In the cold light of day, both sides will claim a draw is a better result for themselves as the season run-in continues to ramp up.
From a Celtic point of view, we are still firmly in the title race, and Rodgers’ men claiming a domestic double is still a realistic possibility come May.