The post-split fixtures are now in place, and from a Celtic point of view, there’s a clear run of games that could define how this title race plays out. One of them comes late on, with Danny Rohl’s side heading to Celtic Park in the third last game of the season.
Before that, they face a tough trip to Tynecastle. That’s not an easy place to go at any stage, never mind with the pressure of a title run-in. It’s the kind of game that can take something out of a squad, especially with another big one coming just days later.
For Celtic, that sequence stands out. Opponents coming off a demanding away match, then walking into a packed Celtic Park with everything on the line. If the title is still there to be won, the place will be right on top of them from the first whistle.
Rohl, though, is looking at it from the other side. He sees a chance to build momentum before that game in Glasgow arrives. If his team handle their early fixtures, they could arrive in a strong position.
He said: (Sky Sports), “It could also be a great advantage for us.
“If we start really well and take all the points until the Celtic game maybe we are top of the table, but we have to work hard.
“It won’t be easy.”
From a Celtic perspective, this is exactly the kind of fixture that has to be taken control of early. By the time this game arrives, there won’t be room to feel your way into it. The tempo has to be set straight away.
Celtic Park can make that happen. When the crowd is fully behind the team, it becomes difficult for any side to settle, especially one coming off a heavy run of games.
It will come down to sharpness in the final third. Celtic have had matches this season where chances have come and gone. In a game like this, the first goal changes everything.
If the title is still within reach at that stage, this is one where Celtic need to impose themselves and make home advantage count.
