Celtic wrapped up their season with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Hearts in the Scottish Cup final. What would have delighted the fans even more should be the fact that the club managed to come back from behind in the second half to secure the ‘treble treble’.
The first half was devoid of too much action, and it lacked quality for the most parts. Both teams looked cagey and were conservative in their approach. It was surprising to see even the Hoops launching long balls forward given the quality of players they had at their disposal. Credit to Hearts for going into half time at 0-0.
The Jambos took the lead through Ryan Edwards early in the second half which caused Hampden ark to erupt. However, their joys were short-lived as Odsonne Edouard was brought down in the box around the hour mark and the Frenchman himself converted from the spot.
The game dramatically changed in the last 20 minutes as both the teams were playing at a higher tempo. Celtic scored the winner out of nothing in the 82nd minute as Hearts defence hesitated in clearing a long header and Edouard was in at goal. Celtic’s record signing slotted in calmly, and that turned out to be the winner. One will have to say that Edouard bailed his team out by being clinical in front of goal as Celtic were average at best.
Here is how the Bhoys fared in their final win.
Scott Bain 6
Couldn’t have done much to prevent the goal. A comfortable game overall in between the sticks. Misplaced some of his passes.
Jonny Hayes 7
His energy down the left was impressive. Put in some dangerous crosses and tracked back well when required. Not known for his defensive qualities, but read the dangers well.
Jozo Simunovic 6
Made some crucial blocks and interceptions. However, he was sloppy on the ball on various occasions.
Kristoffer Ajer 7
His commitment at the back often makes the difference. Was a dominant figure in defence and put in a strong shift at the back.
Mikael Lustig 5
Assisted the second goal. Looked leggy on occasions and was troubled defensively.
Scott Brown 7
Played far too many safe passes in the first half. Changed his approach a bit in the second half as he tried to drive the ball forward and that showed in Celtic’s overall play.
Callum McGregor 6
Wasn’t allowed too much time on the ball. Made some incisive passes and worked hard but was not at his productive best in the final third.
Tom Rogic 5
The Australian has struggled for months now, and this was another poor game from him. Just looked a bit slow and it seemed like the game was going past him. Substituted early in the second half.
James Forrest 6
Celtic’s player of the year wasn’t able to impact much in the final third as Hearts gave special attention to him. Managed to get into some good positions but wasn’t at his best.
Michael Johnston 6.5
Looked full of energy like always. Worked hard and drove the ball forward with intent but lacked quality.
Odsonne Edouard 8.5
The man who broke the hearts of the opposition. Kept his nerve and scored both the goals. Often caused a lot of problems with his runs. A man of the match performance from the striker.
Substitutes
Olivier Ntcham 6
Linked up play well on occasions after coming on in the second half.
Nir Bitton N/A
Didn’t play enough to warrant a rating.
Scott Sinclair N/A
Wasn’t involved much after coming on.
