In the past three games Celtic have won against tough opposition. During the trio of games a theme has emerged when it comes to the opposition trying to shake us out our rhythm – half time subs.
The bhoys started all three games very well. The first halves against The Rangers, Motherwell and Aberdeen saw Celtic score 8 goals in total without reply [3x The Rangers, 3x Motherwell, 2x Aberdeen]
Celtic’s blistering starts have meant the opposition have made early half time subs in a bid to stop Celtic’s ascendancy and dominance. You could argue Motherwell and The Rangers looked to shut up shop. Second halves against both only yielded one goal in total but vitally zero conceded.
Then we get to the Aberdeen game where two changes at half time and a change of shape managed to knock us off our game. Stephen Glass changed the system and watched his Aberdeen side score twice to bring themselves back level in the game.
Celtic response was instant and that can’t be ignored. The resilience in Ange’s new look side is brilliant.
The good news is, teams are finding it difficult to handle us from the off. However, as Ange points out, there’s still room for improvement. Celtic adapting to a second half switch up must be a priority.
The Celtic manager also left the substitutes uncharacteristically late at Pittodrie. Celtic’s high intensity pressing game means we should likely always freshen things up with around the 60-65 minute mark. Our squad depth is at a point where we can bring on players and not dilute the quality of the XI on the field.
None of this should be taken as me moaning about Celtic winning another game.
It’s a word of caution and a trend that could catch us cold if we don’t adapt. CelticbyNumbers on social media posted out Celtic concede 37% of their goals between the 51st and 70th minute of a game. The second half of games is clearly something we must look at.
I’m sure the manager will be looking at ways to remedy this.
