Celtic are officially the kings of Scotland once again — and they made sure to do it in the most spectacular and hilarious fashion possible, battering Dundee United 5-0 at Tannadice to lift the Scottish Premiership trophy.
In the build-up to the game, former Rangers man Glenn Middleton tried to rally the troops at United, boldly claiming they would do everything possible to delay Celtic’s celebrations on their own patch.
“It’s going to be a big occasion in the making for them and one that we’ll be trying to postpone as much as we can,” Middleton had declared confidently.
He added: “We’ve shown in a couple of games this season that we’re capable of frustrating them and causing problems. It’s up to us to carry out the game plan.”
Well, about that game plan, Glenn…
Instead of frustration, Celtic served up a masterclass in demolition. Memories of title-clinching days from the 2008 and Ange Postecoglou eras were flowing before kickoff, and this current Hoops side looked determined to deliver another iconic moment at Tannadice — and boy, did they deliver.
The party started early with an own goal opening the floodgates, and by the time Nicolas Kühn smashed home two more before halftime, Middleton’s defiance had been turned into pure comedy.
Celtic were three up and cruising, while Dundee United looked like they wanted the final whistle before the first half even ended.
Adam Idah wasn’t in the mood for mercy either, bagging a double to complete the 5-0 rout and ensure that United — and Middleton — could do nothing but watch helplessly as the Hoops celebrated winning their fourth consecutive league title right on their “backyard” as promised.
All the talk of postponements and game plans was left lying in tatters, just like Dundee United’s defence, as the full-time whistle sparked scenes of jubilation among the travelling Celtic faithful.
Now, with the league sealed in ruthless style, all eyes turn to the Scottish Cup final — and a potential Treble in sight.
But for now, Celtic fans can raise a glass, have a laugh at Middleton’s pre-match fighting talk, and bask in the glory of a title win that was every bit as sweet as it was savage.