Celtic have moved four points clear at the top of the Scottish Premiership after a 3-0 victory over St Mirren on Saturday afternoon.
Reo Hatate was the hero who opened the scoring in the 52nd minute, unleashing a glorious top-corner finish past Zach Hemming.
Then, Kyogo Furuhashi scored his 16th goal of the season with an emphatic header from Alistair Johnston’s superb cross from the right flank.
Finally, substitute Adam Idah rounded off the scoring just five minutes from time to continue his good form on loan.
What are the big talking points coming out of the fixture? Here are three of ours…
Half-time home truths
The first 45 minutes were about as frustrating as any we’ve seen throughout the season so far.
Celtic enjoyed 72% in that opening period but only managed to make one attempted shot, which wasn’t even registered as on target.
It looked like the Bhoys were heading to another tense and nervy afternoon but, to the team’s credit, they regrouped at half-time to come out after the interval with a new attitude.
It would be very surprising, based on what Brendan Rodgers has said before this season, that a few home truths weren’t aired in the dressing room to provoke a response.
The start to the game was far from good enough but that winning resolve shone through – much to the fans’ delight. The chemistry in that squad is working.
Reo Hatate’s reminder
Before today, Hatate hadn’t scored for Celtic since a 3-1 win over Kilmarnock in October. He’s shown glimpses of quality since his recent return from injury but today was the first real reminder about how impactful he can be.
His sumptuous finish with the outside of the boot from the edge of the box helped dig Celtic out of a performance rut this afternoon. Those moments of individual brilliance are so crucial in a tight title race.
The Japanese midfielder is a joy to watch and – even in the midst of what had been a pretty lacklustre display – his ability came to the fore to inspire his teammates towards a comfortable victory. He’s a special talent.
Turning the screw on Rangers
Points in the bag are more valuable than games in hand. It was absolutely vital that Celtic continued to ask questions of Rangers ahead of their away double-header tomorrow and on Wednesday.
All Celtic can do right now is keep winning. Rodgers and his Bhoys know that if they win all of their remaining games then they will be champions.
Today’s win has ensured, however, if there are any cracks in Rangers’ momentum then they feel the pressure of that on the road in Dingwall and Dundee.
It’s job done today and onto the Scottish Cup semi-final at Hampden. The double remains on.