Celtic’s hopes of winning the Scottish Premiership title at home next weekend have been put on ice following a disappointing 1-0 defeat to St Johnstone in Perth this afternoon.
Brendan Rodgers’ men went into the game knowing that just two more wins would be enough to mathematically secure the title, but their plans were thrown off course by a lacklustre performance at McDiarmid Park. Despite controlling much of the possession, the Hoops couldn’t find a way to win and were punished by a rare St Johnstone goal that handed the hosts a surprise win.
With six matches left to play and 18 points still available, Celtic still hold a commanding lead. A win against Kilmarnock next Saturday would stretch the advantage to 16 points with only 15 remaining, but only if Rangers were to lose to Aberdeen on Sunday. That combination of results would confirm Celtic as champions next weekend.
However, should both sides win their games, Celtic would not be able to clinch the title until the first game after the Premiership split at the earliest. A victory in that post-split opener would push the Hoops beyond the reach, regardless of Rangers’ remaining fixtures.
The defeat in Perth is undoubtedly a setback, but the big picture remains the same. Celtic are still firmly in control of the title, and it’s now just a question of when—not if—the Premiership trophy will be returning to Paradise. Celtic supporters may have to wait a little longer for the celebrations to begin, but the finishing line is well within sight.
