28/02/2025 Aberdeen(H), Hey Jude and AJ.

Aberdeen(H)

Tuesday night ‘s 5-1 win over Aberdeen was Celtic’s 12th consecutive midweek fixture and 26th game in 12 weeks.

An unrelenting schedule, one game hot on the heels, of another. Stamina depleting physically but another toll, is taken mentally. Maintaining the natural enthusiasm, competitive edge and focus needed to deliver trophies – consistently – is a struggle.

From this point the schedule opens up, presenting a timely chance for players to catch their breath. Presuming we go to the cup final – May 24th – we’ll play a maximum of 13 games, in 12 weeks. A far more manageable workload, perfect for the pursuit of a domestic treble.

5-1 flattered Celtic on Tuesday. Whilst not a poor performance. Aberdeen had opportunities to score throughout and the second-guessed, hesitant defending, we saw at Easter Road was still present. Aberdeen and Kevin Nesbit, in particular, should have capitalised first half.

Middle to front though, it was a different story. Despite the general lacklustre, Maeda, Jota and McGregor were clinical, putting Celtic 3-0 up at half-time. The 2nd goal showed the full scope of Celtic’s prowess and pace on the break. A sweeping move, covering 60 yards in seconds, finished – kinda – by Jota.  

A superb 4th goal was created – with the help of McCowan – and finished by Yang after coming off the bench. An interesting player, who is starting to add some meat to the bones of his play. Seemingly, no one quite knows what to make of him. He’s certainly learning though.

Aberdeen scored in the 90th minute. Schmeichel - minutes away from a record for clean sheets at home – lashed out, kicking the post. An insight into, the pursuit of perfection but his frustration was warranted. It was a poor goal to concede, regardless of the score. Scales, was too easily beaten by Morris, who finished from close range.

There was still time – there always is it seems – for Maeda to grab his 2nd and Celtic’s 5th of the night.  From a central position, the Japanese forward is finding new heights week on week. 25 of his 54 goals for the club have been scored this season and 10 alone this calendar month(February). At this rate, he’ll join the 100 club, in no time.  

After St.Mirren on Saturday, it’s one game a week again. A chance to recharge and re-calibrate before the final push.

Hey Jude

Jude Bonner made his senior competitive debut on Tuesday, replacing Arne Engels on 80 minutes.

Long-limbed and left-footed, his first few touches as a Celtic player were crisp and accurate passes under pressure. The 19-year-old certainly looked confident on the ball. He also possesses a good frame and physique for his age. An encouraging combination.

It would be good to see the likes of him and Dane Murray, feature in the remaining games.

Alistair Johnston 100.

Tuesday was the Canadian right-back’s 100th appearance for Celtic. Fittingly, he finished off the night, with a perfect assist for Daizen Maeda.

The 26-year-old seems strangely home grown in a sense, about as Scottish, as a North American can get. Whether it’s his family roots, his looks, name or the endearing fact, he says “aye” a lot, Johnstone has adorned himself to the Celtic support. Articulate and engaging when interviewed, he is often candid about the challenges of top level football. Media trained but authentic at the same time, he comes across as intelligent and conscious of his privilege.

On the pitch he competes relentlessly and is confrontational when it comes to his defending. A traditional full-back - with a background in Ice Hockey and wrestling - he excels 1 v 1.

It would be a stretch to describe him as swashbuckling but his athletic build and strong stride is exciting in full flight. Johnston has added more technique and nuance to his attacking output this season, contributing 4 goals and 7 assists so far. A fine return for a player continually improving.

A future Celtic captain maybe? Next stop 200.