Anthony Ralston reflected on the moment that changed the course of Celtic’s 3-1 extra-time victory over Rangers at Hampden, admitting that Aasgaard’s reckless challenge left him feeling the full force of a dangerous tackle.
The Celtic defender, who played through the pain to complete the match, was typically composed when asked about the incident after the game. Ralston chose not to dwell on the challenge itself, instead focusing on how Celtic reacted and used the man advantage to seize control of the semi-final.
It was a physical, high-tempo match throughout, and Ralston’s response to the red card situation summed up his professionalism and resilience. Rather than inflame the situation, he calmly acknowledged the risk involved in such a tackle and gave credit to his teammates for maintaining composure in the aftermath.
He said: (Sky Sports), “You run the risk when you go in high and with that much force. The boy ran the risk, and it didn’t work out for him.
”It was one that changed the game, and I felt we capitalised on it well.”
Ralston’s comments came after a game where Celtic, despite having a man advantage, struggled to make it count until extra time. The Hoops failed to fully take control following Aasgaard’s red card, allowing Rangers to regroup and eventually find an equaliser from the penalty spot. It was only once the match entered extra time that Celtic’s composure and fitness began to show, turning pressure into goals through Callum McGregor and Callum Osmand.
For Ralston, it was another gritty display rather than a flawless one. He continued despite the knock from the early challenge and worked tirelessly on the right-hand side, though Celtic as a unit looked hesitant for stretches after the sending-off. His comments after the match hinted at that awareness, a recognition that the team didn’t make the most of the opportunity until they were forced to respond in the added period.
Celtic’s inability to impose themselves immediately after going a man up will be one area O’Neill and his staff look to address. For all their eventual dominance, there were spells where the Hoops invited unnecessary pressure and lost rhythm, allowing Rangers back into the contest. Ralston’s level-headed reaction summed up a player who knows the performance, while ultimately successful, still left room for improvement.
By full-time, relief mixed with satisfaction for Celtic. They had got the job done but knew they’d made it harder than it should have been. Ralston’s measured words reflected that reality, proud of the result, honest about the struggle, and aware that better game management will be needed when they return to Hampden for the final next month.
As I said yesterday Tony Ralston would run through wa’z fur Celtic.
And he did !!!!!
Kudos tae all Hoops players and belief In Shawn Maloney and M’ons tactics and wise substitutions. When needed.
A season isn’t just wan geme, it’s countess gemes, in awe weathers and grunz.