Celtic came from behind to secure a massive three points after they won 3-1 against Motherwell at Fir Park on Sunday afternoon (25 February).
After Rangers won their game comfortably 5-0 against Hearts, the Bhoys needed to win and close the gap. However, they struggled badly in the first half and trailed by 1-0 at the break.
An inspired performance in the second half from Celtic turned the tie in their favour. Adam Idah scored two crucial goals while Luis Palma added another as the Bhoys picked up all three points to close the gap to two points at the top.
Stephen Craigan suggested on BBC Sportsound (BBC Sport live blog, 25 February) that Celtic winger Daizen Maeda has suffered a massive dip in form. The Japan international was a key player under Ange Postecoglou but he has really struggled this season.
Maeda has managed three goals and two assists in the Scottish Premiership this season, and he is “miles away” from the player he was last season. In contrast, Maeda managed 11 goals and seven assists in all competitions last season. Craigan says that Maeda has looked a bit disinterested at times this season.
“Is it me, or does Daizen Maeda look miles away from the player he was last season? He’s the fastest player on the pitch but looks a bit disinterested at times,” said Craigan.
Celtic cannot afford to make any more mistakes
While Brendan Rodgers suggests that a draw would not have been a bad result against Motherwell, the reality is something else. Rangers are riding high on momentum but Celtic can write their own script if they want to.
It’s going to be a thrilling title race and Celtic cannot afford to make any more mistakes. Rodgers still probably doesn’t know his best team, but he would be very disappointed with the performances of both Maeda and Kyogo in the previous game.
Palma replaced Maeda in the 84th minute and made an instant impact as he scored the final goal. Maeda is a class player but probably he is lacking a bit of confidence at the moment.
Celtic will face Dundee in the Scottish Premiership in their next match on Wednesday (28 February) at Celtic Park.
