Three key takeaways from Celtic’s 2-0 victory over Motherwell at sun-kissed Fir Park
Celtic managed to avoid a fourth consecutive defeat as they returned to the Scottish Premiership summit with a convincing 2-0 win over Motherwell at Fir Park.
Having lost three successive matches before the three-week international break, including two against Old Firm rivals Rangers, the reigning champions bounced back to winning ways in style against the confidence-shot Steelmen.
Camilo Duran and Benjamin Nygren were both on target, and the margin of victory could easily have been greater had the visitors not squandered a host of chances either side of half-time in North Lanarkshire.
Lewis Anderson watched proceedings unfold for The Scotsman and picks out his three main takeaways from the game:
A welcome confidence boost but sterner tests await
This was much more like it from Celtic. Successive Old Firm defeats by Rangers and a damaging Europa League loss at home to Ferencváros had left the club in a state of turmoil and cast doubt over Martin’s O’Neill’s future as manager. After a difficult spell in which results and uncertainty had combined to intensify the scrutiny, the 74-year-old’s decision to stay on was followed by a performance that offered genuine grounds for optimism. Celtic badly needed a response, and they delivered one.
O’Neill revealed before kick-off that it had taken only “short reflection” to reaffirm his commitment, insisting he was “just as determined now as ever before” to continue in the dugout. With supporters once again directing their anger at majority shareholder Dermot Desmond, this victory offered a timely tonic for the Northern Irishman and marked his 250th win in charge of Celtic.
Celtic did what they had to, but O’Neill and his players will be under no illusions that more searching examinations await. Tricky Europa League assignments against Benfica and Celta Vigo, either side of a potentially pivotal Premiership encounter with Hearts, will provide a far sterner measure of whether this victory marks the beginning of a sustained recovery.
O’Neill also acknowledged after the match that Rangers could hold an “advantage” in the title race, with their absence from European competition allowing them to focus more fully on domestic matters while Celtic contend with the demands of a congested fixture schedule.
Jota gets fantastic reception on long-awaited comeback
Perhaps the most encouraging moment for those of a Celtic persuasion came with 15 minutes remaining, when Jota made his long-awaited return from an ACL injury after spending almost 18 months on the sidelines.
The loud cheer that greeted the Portuguese winger’s introduction told its own story and underlines the affection with which he is held by the Celtic support. There will inevitably be a period of adjustment as he regains match sharpness following such a lengthy absence, but his availability offers O’Neill another attacking option at a time when his side have been searching for greater consistency and cutting edge in the final third.
At his best, Jota brings a combination of electric pace, excellent close control and creativity that can unsettle any opposition defence. His ability to beat a man, operate in tight spaces and supply dangerous crosses into the penalty area gives Celtic a dimension that can be particularly valuable against opponents who set up in a low block.
There must, however, be patience and O’Neill will be keen to avoid rushing him back into such a demanding schedule. Nevertheless, his comeback represents an important psychological lift for both the squad and the fanbase. If he can recapture the form that made him such an influential figure during his previous spell, Jota could become a valuable asset in O’Neill’s efforts to keep Celtic competitive on multiple fronts.
Tounekti delivers timely reminder of his talent
For all the criticism he has received, Sebastien Tounekti offered a timely reminder of his undoubted ability by producing an energetic attacking display. The Tunisian international was among Celtic’s liveliest performers at Fir Park, repeatedly troubling the home defence with his direct running, willingness to take on opponents and ability to create openings from the left flank.
Tounekti tested Motherwell goalkeeper Alex Paulsen with a low drive in the first half before continuing to threaten after the interval, forcing another save with a powerful effort from the edge of the penalty area. He offered a valuable outlet and while unable to get on the scoresheet, the winger’s contribution was an important reminder that his pace and technical ability can make him difficult to contain when he plays with confidence and conviction.
Consistency remains the biggest challenge for a player still trying to establish himself at Celtic. There will be greater demands on him to turn promising passages of play into goals and assists, particularly as competition for places intensifies with the return of Jota.
However, this display was a positive step at a time when Celtic needed their attacking players to respond to talk of a crisis. If he can build on this, Tounekti may yet prove that the criticism has been premature.