Brendan Rodgers Spotted Showing Telling Reaction

Pat Bonner says Brendan Rodgers’ frustration was clear to see as Celtic were held to a 0-0 draw by Hibernian at Celtic Park.

The Hoops dominated possession and created plenty of openings, but their lack of a finishing touch once again cost them in front of a restless home crowd.

The former Celtic goalkeeper was on commentary duty for the game and felt that much of the team’s play was excellent until it came to the decisive moments. While Rodgers has spoken positively about the performance, Bonner believes the body language on the touchline told its own story.

Celtic’s intensity was high, they moved the ball well, and they forced Hibs into a defensive shell for most of the afternoon. However, composure deserted them in the box, with chances either snatched at or wasted as the game wore on.

Bonner felt the players’ rising desperation mirrored the tension in the stands and even appeared to impact the manager, who showed signs of irritation as another two points slipped away.

He said: (BBC Sportsound), “The play was good, the intensity was good, they passed the ball with intent. In two thirds of the pitch, very, very good. But the final third…

“The longer the game went on and on, the more frustrated the players became, the fans became, even Brendan Rodgers was frustrated on the sideline.

“It was that final ball that was rushed. They were getting into very, very good positions, but at times they were rushing it and they just needed a little more composure on the ball.”

Bonner’s view matched what plenty of fans saw. Celtic played well until the final third, then let themselves down when it mattered most. Turning dominance into goals has been a recurring issue at the start of this season.

Rodgers has praised the team’s control and work rate, but Bonner pointed out how damaging the lack of composure in attack has become. Matches that should be put to bed are slipping away, handing rivals a boost.

Seeing Rodgers show his frustration on the touchline only added to the feeling of urgency. If even the manager is visibly feeling it, it shows just how badly Celtic need to sharpen up in front of goal.

With Hearts now leading the Premiership, Bonner’s words carry weight. Unless Celtic find their calmness and finishing touch soon, they could be punished in the title race despite otherwise strong displays.