Journalist David Friel has given his verdict on Celtic’s hard-fought 2-1 victory over Kilmarnock at Rugby Park on Sunday.
The game was settled by a late penalty, sparking debate, but Friel felt there were still clear positives for Brendan Rodgers’ side.
Friel admitted Celtic never really found their rhythm, pointing to issues in midfield balance and careless passing. He stressed that some of the new arrivals still have work to do if they are to make a real impact.
Friel also praised Daizen Maeda for his improved movement and trademark work rate, noting how much more effective he looked in attack. Overall, he felt Celtic edged the contest but acknowledged Kilmarnock pushed them all the way.
He said: (Clyde 1 Superscoreboard), I don’t think they were that bad. I just never really felt they got into a stride, Gordon. Maybe it’s the pitch. Maybe it’s still the balance in midfield for Celtic that’s not right with Nyrgen, Hatate and Callum McGregor.
“There were a lot of slack passes in there as well. Michel-Ange Balikwisha — we’re the world champions at writing players off early — but he has to do more than he’s shown against Rangers and Kilmarnock yesterday.
“The real bright spark was Sebastian Tounekti. I thought it was as good a debut as I’ve seen in a long time. Once he found his rhythm, he absolutely tormented James Brown down that side. A really, really promising debut for him.
“And Daizen Maeda as well — I thought he was back. His work rate was a lot better yesterday. I know there’s a debate whether he’s a number nine or better off the side, but it was great movement. Great movement in the box, great diving header.
“Over the piece, Killie competed well. Maybe Celtic did deserve to win the game, but obviously it came in controversial circumstances.”
Friel’s words will ring true with fans who have doubts about Celtic’s midfield shape. The mix of Nyrgen, Hatate and McGregor is still a work in progress, and he stressed that Celtic need to use the ball with more control.
His view on Balikwisha also sums up what life at Celtic can be like. Patience is often short, and while the Belgian is still finding his feet, there is pressure on him to show more than he has so far.
The big positive was Tounekti’s debut, which gave fans real hope. Quick, brave and lively out wide, he offered the kind of spark Celtic have been missing in games where teams sit deep.
Maeda’s strong display was another highlight. His movement for the first goal showed his worth, and with his tireless pressing added on, Celtic did just enough to take the points at Rugby Park.
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