Celtic showed character in abundance last weekend to claim maximum points at the Global Energy Stadium against Ross County in the Scottish Premiership.
Despite a gritty showing from the hosts, Alistair Johnston and Nicolas Kuhn’s rescue mission was enough to ensure the Bhoys went back down the road without slipping up at a tricky away venue.
In truth, Celtic’s battling victory over Ross County illustrated a different side to their game: it was as much about substance as it was about style on a day where they couldn’t afford to cede ground.
Grinding out results can come in clutch at the business end of the season. They are a major part of why Callum McGregor has found himself on the Celtic Park podium, ready to hoist fresh silverware above his head.
Hyping yourself up for the next challenge, especially after Celtic’s Champions League defeat to Borussia Dortmund, can be a hard task to contend with due to the psychological elements involved.
Nevertheless, Charlie Mulgrew believes Brendan Rodgers and his disciples have shown class this campaign in being able to handle the shift in dynamic.
Charlie Mulgrew on Celtic’s post-European mentality
Speaking on Open Goal, former Celtic utility man Mulgrew believes Rodgers and the players have shown a ‘brilliant’ mindset to cope with the switch from Champions League nights to domestic football in such a short space of time.
Crediting the Bhoys for their mental fortitude, he stated: “It’s so hard, going from playing Dortmund or a Champions League night away.
“All the expectation is off you; it’s a big Champions League night, and it’s amazing. Everything about it, the Champions League tune, the build-up.
“No disrespect to Ross County, but you’re (then) in Dingwall on a Sunday. It’s really hard to get going again. I think Rodgers has been brilliant at that, and the team has been brilliant with that. Getting them going again, it’s hard.”
Celtic don’t have room for Scottish Premiership faltering
Nobody wants to drop points in the Scottish Premiership. Still, Celtic have the most pressure on their shoulders in the league to juggle their domestic endeavours while featuring in Europe’s premier competition.
Hard-fought wins against Ross County and company are par for the course, no matter the circumstances. Every year, there are a few fixtures you can point to as the ones that got the Bhoys over the line; they aren’t always the most eye-catching to watch.
Character and resolve are what make Celtic such a formidable domestic opponent. When you think they’re beaten, there is always an extra yard Rodgers’ men can go to find their desired result.
With a hectic run of matches ahead, the Irishman will need to rely on his side’s indomitable spirit to shine through in clutch moments.
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