Celtic reduced the deficit at the top of the league to just four points ahead of Wednesday's Match with TFOD with an impressive 4-1 win over Motherwell. Gordon Strachan was quick to answer back his critics when he retorted sarcastically "What do I know about tactics?" when he was praised about Celtic's pressing game.
Celtic started the brightest and opened the scoring from a McManus/McDonald goal. I was sure that the referee was going to award a free kick against Caldwell for his tackle on the keeper but the play quite rightly went on and a combination of Captain and Striker forced the ball over the line. I wish more ref's could do likewise and not always give the keepers the benefit of the doubt.
Motherwell responded seven minutes later when Ross McCormack linked well with Stephen Hughes. Stephen McManus could only help the ball over the line when he was better placed to clear.
The parity was soon broken however as Celtic took the lead through an excellent goal by Scott McDonald. The ball broke to the little striker just inside the box and his first time drive took a little bobble on its way in.
Celtics lead was then increased with a JVH header from a Robson corner. The Big Dutchman burst into the six yard box and bulleted a header Chris Sutton-style past the helpless 'Well Keeper. More of the same please Jan!
Celtic continued to press after this with McDonald coming closest with a fierce drive that the keeper did well to save. The icing on the cake came soon after when Big Jan pounced on a loose ball in the area to rocket the ball into the roof of the net and Celtic's afternoon was complete.
Celtic Manager Gordon Strachan had this to say "In terms of actual football that would be way down in terms of the number of chances we made It was a different type of game, the commitment was a joy to behold."
Strachan was also complimentary to Scott McDonald, singling him out for his commitment and dedication this season. "His effort and commitment this year has been absolutely fantastic and just because he's had four or five games without a goal and he's and the first taste of what it's like to be a Celtic player.
"And you have to go through that and the next time it comes around it's far easier to deal with."
Lets hope he continues with this dedication just a little bit longer.
Yours in Celtic
Clydebuilt