Celtic returned to winning ways in emphatic fashion on Saturday with a 3-0 victory over Hearts at Celtic Park. However, the performance has somewhat gone under the radar, especially given the significance of the result after the disappointing Glasgow Derby defeat before the international break.

A Statement Performance

BBC Radio Scotland’s Allan Preston was quick to highlight just how dominant Celtic were in Glasgow. Speaking on The Scottish Football Podcast, Preston emphasised that, despite Hearts’ early opportunity through Kenneth Lewis Neilson, Celtic were in complete control from that moment on.

“They had the chance for Neilson, really good save in the first 15, and then after that it was all Celtic,” Preston said. “I think Neil Critchley would be quite thankful that he got out with only three because it could have been more.”

Missed Chances But No Mercy

Celtic’s attacking play was relentless, and they could have added to their tally if they had been more clinical in front of goal. The Hoops created numerous opportunities, particularly in the second half, but failed to convert them all. That said, three goals at Celtic Park is no small feat, and the victory keeps Celtic firmly on track to secure a 55th league title.

“It really could have been more,” Preston added. “Celtic missed chances in that first half and some in the second. They weren’t as clinical, but they deserve three points.”

Hearts Left With No Answers

For Hearts, it was a humbling afternoon. Neil Critchley’s side struggled to contain Celtic’s intensity and will now have to regroup ahead of their next match against Dundee United. Meanwhile, Celtic can take confidence from this display as they look to build momentum in the coming weeks.

A dominant victory like this should not go unnoticed, and while much of the focus remains on the aftermath of the Glasgow Derby, Celtic’s response at Celtic Park was exactly what was needed. The Hoops sent out a clear message – they won’t let one defeat derail their march towards a domestic treble.