Celtic have never been in a better place to end Hibernian hoodoo

By Euan Davidson

October 26, 2021

It’s genuinely remarkable that Celtic haven’t beaten Hibernian at home since 2014.

Consider the teams we’ve beaten in that time. Or, what’s happened at Celtic, in football, in news, everything. The world is a markedly different place now than it was 7 years ago.

Yet, still no wins in Leith.

Still, though, that’s no reason to look tomorrow with bleak pessimism. Celtic are well-placed to put an end to this particular, unusual drought. Hibernian, however, are in some disarray.

Over the last three games, Hibs have lost to Rangers, Dundee United and Aberdeen. The Aberdeen loss in particular will have been tough to take, with the Dons struggling for form under ex-Hibee Stephen Glass. Jack Ross’ undoubtedly talented team started well, but have fallen away in recent weeks.

At home, it’s not been particularly impressive. A draw with St Mirren, scraping by 10-man St Johnstone and the aforementioned Dundee United defeat add up to a not-exactly-outstanding run of results for Hibs.

Meanwhile, Celtic have finally found some away form. Having not won outside of Paradise since February, wins over Aberdeen and Motherwell were much-needed to say the very least.

It’s time for Celtic to end bizarre Hibernian streak

Given the sheer litany of chances Celtic have created in recent games, you have to imagine there’ll be goals here. And at the moment, that suits us.

Postecoglou has made important tweaks to his tactics, pressing effectively from the front, but also doing more with the ball when possession is won in our half.

For a team that’s struggled defending attacks down their wings, Ross’ side’s weakness is Celtic’s strength. Whether Postecoglou picks Kyogo, Jota, Johnston or Abada, there’s devastating pace on the flanks to cause problems.

With 1 goal in their last 3, and Celtic defending stubbornly since the defeat of Aberdeen, there’s cause for hope on both ends of the pitch.

Probably, more settled, more organised and clinical Celtic sides that this current one have tried and failed to get three points from Easter Road.

But on both teams’ form, it seems foolish to look past the Bhoys tomorrow night.

Should be a good one.

Read more: Celtic still want more control in games despite recent form