Celtic have maintained a nine-point lead at the top of the Scottish Premiership this weekend after a comfortable 2-0 win over Dundee United at Tannadice.
Jota got back to scoring form to send the Bhoys on their way to a victory before Aaron Mooy slotted home from the penalty spot to take any jeopardy out of the end result.
It was another confident and pleasing performance from Ange Postecoglou’s team, but what were the big takeaways? Here are three of ours…
Jota’s confidence is growing again and Celtic benefit
The Portuguese winger looked dangerous to the Dundee United defence from the off today. He was eager to get on the ball and drive at the opposition, helping the Bhoys establish a rhythm and foothold in the game.
He forced Mark Birighitti into a smart first-half save before capitalising on the goalkeeper’s indecision on an Aaron Mooy cross to nearly finish from a tight angle in the second.
Jota was Celtic’s catalyst for their most effective forays into the United half and it’s a sign he’s getting back to his confident self after a tricky time of it since the World Cup break due to fitness and illness issues. At his electrifying best, there’s no-one more satisfying to watch in a Bhoys shirt.
Aaron Mooy’s the Bhoy again
The Australian midfielder brought his direct goal contribution for the season to 11 today, consisting of five goals and six assists. He’s proving to be the bargain buy of the season.
He’s scored all five of those in his last eight games.
His combinations with teammates were easy on the eye in the early stages, then it was his impact after the interval that really pushed the Bhoys towards victory.
Celtic have found a composed and reliable presence in the middle of the park, who is just as adept at sticking away penalties, which is also a bonus.
Celtic’s squad stronger than ever under Postecoglou
Celtic had the luxury of bringing on multiple international talents in the second half with David Turnbull, Daizen Maeda, Matt O’Riley, Hyeongyu Oh and Sead Haksabanovic all getting minutes.
It’s taken a few transfer windows for the manager to assemble this collection of talent, but the squad is arguably looking stronger than ever – especially if the new signings bed in effectively.
Today’s bench was incredibly impressive, even past the starting list of the best players in Scottish football. With a busy schedule across three competitions ahead, it bodes incredibly well.
In other news, Ange Postecoglou signals Tomoki Iwata and Callum McGregor Celtic combo; possible formation change.
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