BRENDAN RODGERS had a sad admission to make after watching Celtic struggle to convince in the 1-0 victory over Ross County at Parkhead yesterday.
The scrappy match saw Luis Palma waste TWO penalty kicks, but in the end, the faltering champions managed to hold off the determined Highlanders thanks to a deflected shot from Alistair Johnston in the first minute.
In the final seconds, Joe Hart made a brilliant save to secure the three points that maintain the Premiership pacesetters five points clear of their closest rivals from Ibrox, who also have a game remaining.
The hosts became noticeably nervous as the final whistle drew closer, and the seasoned goalie had to show quick reflexes to reach across his goal to block a low drive from Jordan White. A County player then sprinted after the loose ball in an attempt to grab a rebound.
Moments later, the game was over, which gave some enraged supporters the opportunity to let out their frustrations with a round of jeers. Unfortunately, it seems to be happening far too often these days.
Regretfully, Rodgers said that, in his second stint as head coach of the Hoops, he is growing accustomed to hearing jeers. In June, he took over as manager after Spurs-bound Ange Postecoglou left.
The 51-year-old Irishman addressed the press
in the immediate aftermath of the win, said: “I’ve had that since I’ve been here. If it’s not the result, it’s me. If not me, the board.
“So, all we can do as a team is win games, try to improve and develop – and win.
The group has carried out the action. Together, the team and I as employees put forth a lot of effort every day, and we will keep doing so.
“If it doesn’t live up to the expectations, we’ll make every effort to improve.”
The champions return to action on Saturday at Pittodrie against Aberdeen, followed by a midweek journey to Easter Road to take on Hibs.
They play St Mirren in the Fifth Round of the Scottish Cup in Paisley a fortnight from now to wrap up three straight away games.
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