CELTIC FC kept their title hopes alive with a narrow victory over Aberdeen FC.
Interim manager Martin O’Neill said the result keeps Celtic in the title race for now.
Celtic had to rely on their experience and squad depth to secure the important win.
Earlier in the week, Kieran Tierney said the team’s trophy-winning experience could help them in the tight race for the Scottish Premiership title.
Celtic currently chase league leaders Heart of Midlothian while trying to stay ahead of rivals Rangers FC and Motherwell FC.
Late Goals Continue to Rescue Celtic
In recent weeks, Celtic have relied on late goals to secure crucial points.
Their 2–1 win at Pittodrie Stadium followed the same pattern.
O’Neill praised the team’s determination and fighting spirit. He described the victory as a “big win” in the title chase.
However, the manager admitted the team still lacks the dominant attacking style seen in recent seasons.
Tierney Leads by Example
O’Neill asked his players to avoid slow starts after several difficult matches.
Tierney responded immediately.
The left-back scored Celtic’s fastest league goal of the season within the first five minutes at Pittodrie.
The 28-year-old has carefully managed his fitness since returning from an injury-filled spell at Arsenal FC last summer.
Despite limited minutes, Tierney delivered a strong performance. He recorded more goal attempts than any other player on the pitch and won every duel he contested.
His recent form has been impressive.
After scoring in the derby draw against Rangers FC, Tierney now has two goals and two assists in his last four league matches.
He has also scored five goals this season for Celtic.
Experienced Players Make the Difference
Veteran winger James Forrest also played a key role in the win.
The 34-year-old came off the bench and delivered a low cross that led to the winning goal.
The assist was his first in the league this season. However, Forrest has created six chances in his last five substitute appearances.
He also scored a late goal the last time Celtic faced Aberdeen at Celtic Park in December.
Nygren Delivers Again
Substitute Benjamin Nygren finished Forrest’s cross to score the winner.
Nygren joined Celtic from FC Nordsjælland last summer.
The forward has already scored three league goals as a substitute.
His impact from the bench has added another attacking option for Celtic during the title run.
Title Race Still Wide Open
Celtic may not yet show the same dominance as in previous seasons.
However, experienced players continue to step up in crucial moments.
If those big-game performers keep delivering, Celtic could remain strong contenders in the Scottish Premiership title race.
