Celtic’s recent victory over Hibernian was bittersweet, as right-back Alistair Johnston suffered an injury early in the game, leaving manager Brendan Rodgers worried about a potential long-term absence.
Johnston, who was stretchered off the pitch just minutes into the encounter at Easter Road, later celebrated his team’s win from his hospital bed.
In Johnston’s absence, Tony Ralston was called upon to fill the void, and he played a pivotal role in securing the win for Celtic. Ralston’s tenacity and defensive prowess were on full display when his crucial sliding challenge not only thwarted a Hibernian attack but also led directly to Celtic being awarded the decisive second penalty.
He covered some distance to put in a crunching challenge which saw Celtic go back on the front foot and win the winning penalty.
Manager Brendan Rodgers expressed his satisfaction with Ralston’s performance, highlighting the defender’s readiness and capability to be a starter in his own right.
He said: [SunSport] “That’s the beauty of it. Tony, for me, in his own right, could start every game so it’s important you have that level of player.”
Rodgers further commended Ralston’s contribution to the match-winning moment, saying, “I see how he prepares himself and you see his tackle the other night at the end of the game which creates the opportunity for the penalty. I know I’ve got someone there I can trust.”
Time for Tony to get a run in the team again, his challenge against hibs led to the penalty, Tony has guts and a winning mentality, Tony can also hit the byline and put in great passes to the forwards.
Johnston is a bit faster than Tony but Tony has more to offer on the ball.