Door open for Celtic as Dundee United punish rivals at Tannadice

By John McGinley

August 7, 2021

Celtic have an early opportunity to claw back the three-point disadvantage to Rangers after Steven Gerrard’s side were beaten 1-0 by Dundee United at Tannadice today.

A very impressive performance from Thomas Courts’ men shattered the narrative heading into the encounter that Rangers would dominate away from home.

United were poor last week away to Aberdeen. But they showed great spirit and determination to bounce back from that and cause a big shock.

It was former Rangers youth player Jamie Robson who provided the three points. He latched on to a high forward ball to finish smartly past Jon McLaughlin in the 64th minute. United then comfortably held on for the victory.

A lot has been made of our deficiencies this summer, but it seems others in the city aren’t coping too well at the moment either. It’s Rangers’ second successive defeat after a match against Malmo in mid-week.

Ange Postecoglou’s Bhoys now have a huge chance to pick up three points tomorrow. A win would put that defeat to Hearts last weekend firmly in the rearview mirror.

It’s United’s neighbours Dundee who visit Celtic Park. Given we are still in the early stages of building a team, it’s unlikely to be easy against the Dees but the manager will be demanding a victory and a good performance.

Nearly 25,000 people will flood into Paradise to create the biggest crowd at the ground in nearly 17 months.

The place will be bouncing if the team can produce an exciting display and move on to equal points with the Ibrox side.

In other news, Path is clear to bring in Ko Itakura if Celtic truly want him.