Celtic showed some class after the Scottish Cup final was over, standing as Aberdeen celebrated and lifted their medals and trophy.
Not to sulk, or storm off, but to stay and applaud. It was a moment of genuine class from Brendan Rodgers’ side on a day that cut deep.
Make no mistake, this one hurt. A treble was on the line. A historic clean sweep that was within reach, only for it to slip away in the cruellest fashion – on penalties, after a late equaliser, with missed chances and decisions to rue. But rather than vanish down the tunnel, Celtic’s players remained on the pitch. They clapped the winners. Heads held high, even as the pain sat heavy on their shoulders.
This is what professionalism looks like. What sportsmanship should be. And what you’d expect, frankly, from a club of Celtic’s stature. But Celtic haven’t always received this courtesy, so it was good to see them staying behind for it.
No one would have blamed them for leaving. No one would have batted an eyelid. But they stood up and faced it. Callum McGregor, who missed the first spot-kick, stayed with his team. Kasper Schmeichel, at fault for the equaliser, stood tall. Rodgers kept his side together.
Football has a habit of revealing character in the toughest moments. For Celtic, the manner of the defeat will sting. But their behaviour in defeat spoke volumes. No medals, no celebrations – but plenty of respect. A day to forget for the Hoops, but one handled with real dignity.
