Celtic are now five Scottish Premiership matches away from finding out their title fate following a comprehensive 3-0 victory away to St Mirren.
Despite failing to score in a tight first half, the Bhoys certainly took the initiative in the second, claiming the lead through a superb right-footed Reo Hatate strike in the 52nd minute.
Adding to the scoreline, Alistair Johnston swung in a brilliant centre that the onrushing Kyogo Furuhashi met, dispatching past Zach Hemming to put the game almost beyond doubt.
Nevertheless, loanee Adam Idah did provide that function, winning the ball off Alex Gogic before intelligent approach play involving James Forrest and Luis Palma resulted in the Irishman nodding over Hemming to add some extra comfort to our winning margin.
Brendan Rodgers applauded the impact his substitutes made and their appetite to maintain a high intensity for the entire 90 minutes against Stephen Robinson’s outfit.
He stated post-match: “That was the key. We had mentioned to the players earlier that it was going to be important for us. We were going to make changes in the game and bring energy into it. I thought all the guys coming in did well.”
Now, we await our Scottish Cup semi-final clash against Aberdeen next Saturday, which will commence at 12.30 pm with live coverage on BBC Scotland and Viaplay for those unable to acquire tickets.
Brendan Rodgers delivers fitness update on Liam Scales
Speaking to the press after the game, Rodgers gave an update on the fitness of Liam Scales, who has been a mainstay for much of the campaign in central defence.
The 25-year-old has made 38 appearances in all competitions this term, registering one goal and three assists [Transfermarkt].
Regardless, he missed our victory over St Mirren yesterday, paving the way for Maik Nawrocki to partner Cameron Carter-Vickers at the back.
Eluding to Daizen Maeda potentially being out for a few weeks, Rodgers also added on Scales [Football Scotland]: “I don’t expect him to feature too much. It’s such a small window for him now. But Liam is different. Hopefully he’ll be OK.”
Scales being available sooner rather than later is a positive as we head towards the run-in, boosted by added momentum amid Rangers’ shock 3-2 loss to Ross County earlier today.
Celtic have been given a real shot at claiming a third successive title, and it is up to Rodgers and company to ensure we make the most of it.
