There is a certain irony in listening to former Rangers players dissect a Glasgow derby victory for Celtic.
Usually, the post-match post-mortem involves talk of tactical dominance or individual brilliance from Celtic.
However, the fallout from the latest Ibrox clash has taken a different turn, with Motherwell midfielder Andy Halliday offering a remarkably candid, albeit frustrated, assessment of the proceedings.
Halliday was quick to admit that he sounds ‘bitter’ as he reflects on what he described as the ‘worst’ performance he has ever seen from a Celtic side at the home of their rivals.
“It sounds bitter,” said Halliday. “I always call it as I see it, and Rangers didn’t do enough with the ball.
“But that’s the worst Celtic performance I have seen at Ibrox. One shot on goal in 120 minutes.”
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It is an interesting admission from Halliday, but one that ultimately shines a much harsher light on his former club than it does on Martin O’Neill’s side.
While Halliday’s frustration is clear on Open Goal, his assessment effectively highlights a massive embarrassment for Rangers and their loudmouth coach, Danny Rohl.
If this truly was the poorest Celtic display in years, from an attacking sense – a side that managed just one shot on goal in 120 minutes – then what does it say about a Rangers team that still couldn’t find a way to win?
Winning while playing poorly is often the hallmark of champions, but doing so in your rival’s backyard while they are ‘buzzing’ to play you is the ultimate flex.
Si Ferry: “Do any of you think Celtic can still win the league playing like this?”
Paul Slane: “With the injuries, I don’t know if Celtic can.”
Andy Halliday: “Even regardless of injuries. I get that 100%. Celtic had a much weaker team than they normally would.
“Hearts must have been buzzing watching that game. It sounds bitter. I always call it as I see it, and Rangers didn’t do enough with the ball.
“But that’s the worst Celtic performance I have seen at Ibrox. One shot on goal in 120 minutes. Now, it doesn’t matter because ultimately, they defend their box well, and the most important thing is that they get through to the next round.
“But I couldn’t believe how poor Celtic were, in terms of Celtic on and off the ball.”
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