Celtic moved to within two points of the top of the Scottish Premiership after producing another comeback victory, beating Motherwell 3-1 at Celtic Park.
Martin O’Neill watched his side once again show resilience after falling behind early in the match. The Bhoys responded with intensity and determination to turn the game around against what many consider one of the most impressive footballing teams in the league this season.
For Motherwell boss Jens Berthel Askou, however, the defeat was a painful one — especially after a controversial turning point that changed the course of the match.
Askou reflects on painful defeat at Celtic Park
The key moment arrived when Celtic were awarded a penalty and Motherwell were reduced to ten men after a red card.
Speaking after the game, Askou admitted the result was difficult to accept but praised his team’s effort throughout the match.
“Of course it hurts. We hate losing, love winning and now we have got nothing out of the last two games even though we have put a lot in.
“The tempo was really high at times, some of the quality in the build-up was really good and our pressing was at times extremely good and it made them change their strategies.
“We got a goal from it and our bravery gave them some opportunities to punish us, which they were able to do.”
Turning point proves decisive
Askou felt the penalty and red card came at a crucial moment and ultimately shifted the balance of the contest.
“It could go both ways and I would have hoped it would not be that kind of moment or incident that tipped the game to one of the sides. I think it was a shame that [the penalty and red card] decided the game.
“It’s a penalty, which is a big chance, and a red card which makes it difficult to get back into the game and get a result.”
Once Celtic converted from the spot, the momentum swung firmly in their favour as they pushed on to secure all three points.
Celtic facing key fixtures before the split
With the victory, Celtic now head into a crucial stretch of matches before the Premiership splits into the top and bottom halves.
Martin O’Neill’s side still have three games remaining before that stage of the season arrives, giving them a real opportunity to continue closing the gap on league leaders Hearts.
A challenging Tayside double-header awaits against Dundee and Dundee United, while a clash with St Mirren could also prove tricky if the Paisley club benefit from a new-manager bounce.
Can O’Neill complete an unlikely title defence?
Just weeks ago, Celtic’s title hopes looked in serious danger following the chaotic spell under Wilfried Nancy.
But with momentum building again under O’Neill, the Hoops are suddenly right back in the race.
If they continue picking up results over the next three matches, what once seemed impossible may start to look very realistic — defending their Scottish Premiership crown.