Celtic recorded their fifth clean sheet in nine matches last weekend as they progressed to the Scottish Cup quarter-final at the expense of St Mirren.
The Bhoys made a tactical shift by fielding Kyogo Furuhashi and Adam Idah in attack, which afforded the former half a yard to slot the opener past Zach Hemming from Luis Palma’s cutback on 15 minutes.
Daizen Maeda ensured his side’s passage to the last eight just after half-time, blasting home a rebound from close range following Matt O’Riley’s initial effort.
In truth, Celtic were superior in both boxes and deserved to emerge victorious on the day, though their defensive contribution was every bit as valuable as their offensive exploits in Paisley.
Joe Hart led by example between the sticks, commanding his area and orchestrating the backline in front of him efficiently.
Brendan Rodgers opted to field a defensive four of Anthony Ralston, Stephen Welsh, Liam Scales and Alexandro Bernabei, with all players mentioned sticking to their task well in trying circumstances.
Injuries to the likes of Cameron Carter-Vickers, Greg Taylor and Alistair Johnston in recent weeks had left Rodgers needing to utilise his squad.
Brendan Rodgers praises Celtic defensive trio
Speaking about the Hoops’ routine victory over St Mirren, Rodgers has offered heartfelt praise to central defensive pairing Welsh and Scales alongside Ralston for their efforts at the SMiSA Stadium.
The 51-year-old stated [Cited via The Celtic Way]: “Our centre-halves did very well today. The big guy up front is a handful and there were a lot of direct balls.
“Welsh and Scales stood up to it. Tony Ralston was excellent.
“These are guys who will fight and give you absolutely everything in the game. That’s why I was so proud of them.”
Celtic need fighting spirit in their hunt for the double
Of course, fighting spirit doesn’t guarantee quality performances; however, Celtic need men who are willing to do the hard yards as they look to claim a third Scottish Premiership title in succession.
As we all know, the Scottish Cup is also firmly up for grabs, and the Bhoys are just 90 minutes away from a semi-final showdown at the national stadium if they can navigate past Livingston next month.
2023/24 is edging towards an exciting crescendo and Rodgers will be determined for his side to claim two pieces of silverware before the campaign concludes.
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