Now, we’d never second-guess Celtic manager Ange Postecoglou, his coaches or his scouts, but if they haven’t picked up on a key Hibernian weakness, they’re missing out big-time.
The Hibees, who started the season impressively, have trailed off in recent weeks. Losses to Rangers, Aberdeen and Dundee United have punctured the momentum for a top-3 finish, with Jack Ross’ side struggling to find answers.
And while their attack is faltering, it’s the same basic defensive mistakes that keep appearing for Hibernian; they’re not great at defending set pieces, or indeed, crosses.
You want evidence for this bold claim? Fair enough.
Take a look at their 2-2 draw with St Mirren. At 3.38 [SPFL YouTube] of this highlights video, you can see the absolute acres of space the Buddies have to exploit here. Joe Shaughnessy, with the simplest of finishes, does the damage against Hibs here.
Or, against Rangers. I know, yes, it’s a Rangers highlight, but bear with me. At 3.05 here [SPFL YouTube], you see Kemar Roofe with Ibrox practically to himself from a pretty straight-forward delivery. It happens again at 4.11 here [SPFL YouTube]. The marking is genuinely appalling.
One more for good luck? Here’s a corner against Dundee United [2.03 SPFL YouTube]. The initial ball is dealt with – sort of – but the Tangerines get a chance to regroup. They deliver the ball back in, and Ross’ defenders just watch as their opposition take advantage.
Celtic have to take advantage of obvious Hibernian weakness
While Celtic have curbed the endless crossing of month or so ago, we could actually benefit from playing wider tonight.
It also means that having Giakoumakis in the team would be an advantage. Hibernian just cannot deal with height, or deliveries into the box. It’s astounding.
Yes, it’s a bit like the pot calling the kettle “useless in the air”. We all watched what happened last season. Celtic, though, are better equipped to both stem crosses at the source, or deal with it when the ball’s airborne. Carl Starfelt alone won 11 aerial duels against St Johnstone.
Putting pressure on Hibs’ defence, and stretching it out with clever combinations on in the midfield, would be prudent here. Ange Postecoglou and his staff are surely well aware of that, and with the threats Celtic have in the air, there’s a real opportunity here.
That means prioritising Starfelt and Carter-Vickers when we have corners. Getting the ball to the striker in space, crossing it with accuracy, and getting a much-needed result from Easter Road.
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