Celtic resume their Scottish Premiership campaign against Heart of Midlothian this weekend and there is plenty of optimism in the air heading into the clash.
Supporters heading to the game will finally see the Bhoys on home soil at 3 pm on a Saturday after five successive Sunday matches, making it easier to factor in a light refreshment or two around the occasion.
Joking aside, there is a reason the running order of fixtures has been brought up, which will be expanded on in due course. Hearts come into this one after six straight defeats. Steven Naismith enjoyed success with the Jambos last term, but their new signings have struggled to gel within his tactical framework.
The former Scotland international has admitted his side will need to ‘guard against’ the threat Celtic pose tomorrow afternoon. However, putting the ball in the back of the net has been their main frustration, and they have scored just twice in the league this term.
With anticipation reaching fever pitch ahead of the clash, the reigning champions know what is at stake in the latest round of Scottish Premiership fixtures.
Celtic and the opportunity to continue early momentum
Earlier this week, 67 Hail Hail expanded on the importance of Celtic continuing their 100% record this campaign by claiming three points against Heart of Midlothian.
A record-breaking fifth clean sheet in a row is on offer. Meanwhile, there is a bigger element at play despite this season still being in its infancy.
It goes without saying, but Celtic would race eight points clear of Rangers if they were to topple Hearts tomorrow.
Admittedly, the Jambos always pose challenges against the Bhoys, and nobody expects three points to fall from the sky. However, their city rivals would travel to Dundee United the following day under severe pressure following a poor start under Philippe Clement.
Amplified by the outcome of the recent Glasgow Derby, the Belgian has no room for further slip-ups, with his side holding aspirations of competing in the title race once again.
Celtic have a chance to pile the pressure on their rivals. Early momentum can pose problems to competitors, even if nothing is handed out in mid-September.
Aberdeen deserve credit for matching Brendan Rodgers’ men stride for stride this term and could make it 15 points from 15 available tomorrow with a victory over Motherwell. Their rise is a different kettle of fish, and maybe one we’ll discuss on 67 Hail Hail if they continue to keep up their impressive form.
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