Before the long, arduous trip to Kazakhstan next Tuesday, Celtic had a little bit of business to attend to in the Scottish Premiership when they traveled to face Kilmarnock.
They would go on to win the match by a score 0-2 of thanks to goals in either half from James Forrest and Callum McGregor. Here are three thoughts from the action:
Forrest continues great form
Lifelong Celtic man James Forrest continued his brilliant start to the season with the opening goal against Kilmarnock after 40 minutes to give his side the lead. His goal gave the Hoops a foothold to go forth and conquer the home side, and it follows on some other big goals.
One of those goals was against Rosenborg as they shook off a slow start in the first leg to advance. His finish on Saturday was well-placed, and just where the goalkeeper wouldn’t expect him to hit it. Just the perfect finish to set them on their course.
Patient build-up pays off again
The goal was taken very well by Celtic’s #49, but it was a whole team effort to ultimately set up the chance. Ahead of the goal, Celtic worked the ball side to side and then eventually forward to the left wing.
A cross would come in, but it didn’t go to plan. No worries, though, because the Bhoys simply recycled possession. After three four passes and some dribbling in key areas, the chance fell to Forrest- who made absolutely no mistake with his finish.
Defence stout once again
Once in the lead, Celtic are nearly impossible to beat- in Scotland- because of their passing game, which tires out their opponents quite quickly. It also keeps the ball off of them, allowing their defence to press high and squeeze the game, choking the life out of the opposition slowly.
Even when they aren’t at full-song, Celtic are consistently getting results and keeping clean sheets. In nine matches played, eight clean sheets have been kept. Just one goal has been conceded by the Hoops. That shows not only a great attack or good possession, but it also shows an ability to stay switched on. That will be most valuable come the group stage of the Champions League.
