The most revealing part of Celtic’s Scottish Cup build-up with St Mirren is the acceptance of what the Paisley club are expecting from the Bhoys.
Despite Celtic beating St Mirren at the weekend, there is belief in the Buddies dressing room after lifting silverware earlier this season. That includes a result against Celtic, which is being used as a reference point for what they can achieve.
Jacob Devaney made that clear when he said, “I’ve had that taste of winning trophies so I know what it’s like and what it takes. But obviously the Scottish Cup is completely on another level.
“We are playing against Celtic and we know how tough that’s going to be. The lads have already won one trophy this year and have beaten Celtic in the final. Everyone is really looking forward to it.”
There appears to be confidence in the St Mirren camp but there is also the acceptance of the dangers Celtic represent.
Celtic’s recent Scottish Cup record
- 2016/17: Winners
- 2017/18: Winners
- 2018/19: Winners
- 2019/20: Winners
- 2020/21: Fourth Round
- 2021/22: Semi-Finals
- 2022/23: Winners
- 2023/24: Winners
- 2024/25: Runners-up
Celtic control is already part of the opposition’s plan
The expectation that Celtic will dominate spells of the game is not being hidden. It has been openly stated by the St Mirren camp and it is being recognised by boss Craig McLeish.
McLeish outlined that clearly when he said, “The pitch was always in good condition. It’s a massive pitch and we have to be aware of both sides of that.
“Celtic will have periods where they control the game but we have to make use of the size of the pitch as well, especially with how we’re looking to try and play. We have to exploit spaces and use the pitch to our advantage as well.”
That admission removes any doubt about who is expected to dictate the tempo. Celtic’s domination is not being contested, it is being anticipated.
Celtic face a team planning to react, not impose
The focus on pitch size and exploiting space highlights a reactive approach. It points to a side preparing for moments rather than sustained control.
Using width and transitions is a response to pressure, not a strategy for dominance. That distinction matters in a game where Celtic are expected to set the rhythm.
The contrast is clear. One side is preparing to control, the other is preparing to cope with that control.
Celtic are not just expected to lead this game, they are being prepared for in a way that confirms it. That tells you everything about how this tie is likely to be played.
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