These days however supporting Celtic is akin to the old tired cliché regarding roller coaster rides and today was another journey into the unknown that offered many a peak and trough as Celtic had to battle hard in order to get anything out of this match.
Given that Celtic play first on the weekend of the 4th and 5th of April Rangers could have found themselves a whopping 8 points adrift, come their visit to Falkirk on the Sunday, alas this was not to be.
I however am positive despite this recent failure to put der Hun to the sword. A lesser team would have crumbled after having their advantage cancelled out in the first couple of minutes of the second half. Then they had to pick themselves up as Sandanza took advantage of some sloppy defending after Craig Levein's tactical reshuffle saw United unexpectedly take the ascendancy in the game.
Celtic however went instantly on the front foot and took the game to Utd, with some beautiful interplay between Brown, McGeady and McDonald; Celtic were as entertaining as they were determined to get themselves back into the match. The fact that they were always attempting to attack and play football whilst a goal down was highly appreciated by the travelling support, who were exceptional throughout the entire match.
What can one say about Lee Naylor? The return of the weasel was not appreciated by all, least of all me as every time he gained possession he seemed more intent on attempting to punt the ball into Tannadice Street than find a team mate (a feat that Scott McDonald managed to great aplomb). Why do we seem to revert to long high balls when he plays?
Naylor became an unlikely hero however after his vicious volley drew the hoops level. Unfortunately this was to be the last time that Zaluska had to pick the ball out of his net.
These were not two points that we should have dropped, but we did do well to win a point against a team who gave us as hard a game as we have had this season. United under Levein is a hard act to beat and this was proven yet again.
Yours in Celtic
Clydebuilt