Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has reacted to the Hoops’ enthralling 3-3 draw with Rangers at Ibrox today.
Daizen Maeda and Matt O’Riley had The Bhoys ahead at half-time, but goals from James Tavernier and Abdallah Sima got the hosts level.
Adam Idah then thought he won it at the death with a smart finish but Rabbi Matondo ensured the match ended in a score-draw.
Given they were well ahead, the Celts will be slightly disappointed that they didn’t secure all three points but the title remains within their destiny.
The next six league games will define the success of their season, and gaffer Rodgers is content that Celtic can still control whether they will win the league or not.
The boss immediately reacted to the game on BBC Radio Scotland, admitting that Rangers shouldn’t have had a penalty and that the result was a positive step for his team. He said: “You expect some sort of reaction in the second half.
“I’m disappointed with the penalty. If you watch it back, I think the referee makes the right decision in the game. Ali [stair Johnston] makes a really good challenge. The player then simulates and goes over. He went over a few times in the game.
“It went against us and you expect a bit of pressure. We had to stand up and fight, We get the third goal, excellent from Adam [Idah]. They then get a really good third goal.
“We’re disappointed not to win, but to leave here with everything in our hands is what we wanted.
“We played with a calmness, really attacking with and without the ball. We made the crowd really edgy and that’s what we want. We showed quality and heart in really tough conditions.
“To come here with no supporters, to show that mentality – you were never going to win anything today, but take it [the title race] in the right direction. There’s still a lot to play for. There’s a long way to go. We’re in a really good position.”
It is difficult to argue with the manager’s assessment of proceedings. Supporters may have a sour taste in their mouths – and understandably so – but things remain as they were in the title race.
