Reo Hatate emerged as the hero on a blistery night in Aberdeen as Celtic picked up three vital Scottish Premiership points.
The Japanese midfielder found the bottom-left corner with ease after being sublimely played in behind the Dons’ backline by substitute Greg Taylor, who made an impactful mark off the bench.
Celtic held out amid some late pressure from the hosts to secure a victory, which moved them seven points clear of Jimmy Thelin’s men at the top of the table with a game in hand.
Hatate’s strike was decisive, and early this morning, some terrific footage of it emerged, showing the travelling Celtic supporters in the far corner of Pittodrie in raptures after the net rippled:
Video from the Aberdeen end for the Celtic goal 🤩 pic.twitter.com/nFL6yYCP5L
— . (@oranstorrie99) December 5, 2024
The committed supporters who made the treacherous trip up to the northeast last night were rewarded with 12 minutes to go. It didn’t look likely at points, but Hatate popped up to net what could prove to be a crucial goal come the end of the season.
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers refused to get bogged down by title race chat after yesterday evening’s match, although one cannot understate the significance of his side’s victory.
Now, the Hoops turn their attention to Hibernian this Saturday as they look to maintain their advantage at the top of the table. Kick-off at Celtic Park is set for 3pm.
