Martin O’Neill crystal clear on Celtic’s dramatic late penalty at Motherwell

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Celtic’s title hopes were hanging by a thread until John Beaton awarded a stoppage-time penalty at Fir Park.

Both teams went into the break level after a frantic first half packed with chances at both ends. The hosts made the brighter start and took the lead when Elliot Watt’s first-time volley slipped past Viljami Sinisalo following sustained early pressure.

Celtic responded well and eventually found an equaliser through Daizen Maeda before the interval. Benjamin Nygren put the Hoops ahead in the 58th minute and it looked like a win was snatched after Liam Gordon struck with four minutes to play.

With Celtic staring at dropped points, Kelechi Iheanacho converted from the spot in the 95th minute after a Motherwell handball. The dramatic winner left Martin O’Neill delighted.

• READ MORE: Hearts’ potential allocation for Celtic Park finale as home advantage detailed

What a result! Thoughts on this Celtic fans!!! 👇

WOW!!!!

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Martin O’Neill had no doubts about Celtic’s late penalty at Fir Park

The late penalty decision dominated the post-match discussion and O’Neill had no doubts about the call.

O’Neill told BBC Radio Scotland, “Absolutely, Iheanacho has been terrific for us. Little cameo roles that he’s done, you know?

“He’s had a really frustrating time this season with hamstring problems, you know, but he has come up big for us in these weeks.

“We were absolutely big and he was the one taking the penalty, and I was delighted that he was the one that was taking it as well, too.

“I have seen it back very, very briefly. It’s a handball. It looks as if it’s also an elbow to the to the side of the head as well, too.

“But the VAR have asked the referee to come over and have a look at it and these no hesitation and give a penalty.”

Celtic now have title destiny in their own hands vs Hearts

Celtic know exactly what is at stake when they face Hearts on Saturday. Victory would secure the league title and remove any remaining doubt at the top of the table.

Celtic now know victory against Hearts would secure the title after surviving late drama at Fir Park.

Celtic escaped Fir Park with their title hopes intact. Now they have the chance to finish the job themselves.