Celtic defender Alistair Johnston has revealed the secret behind his team’s comeback against Rangers in the Old Firm derby on Sunday. The 23-year-old said that the players adopted a ‘f*** it’ mentality in the second half and played with more aggression and intensity.
Celtic trailed 1-0 at half-time
The first half of the match at Ibrox was a nightmare for Celtic, who conceded a goal to Blair Spittal in the 18th minute and struggled to create any chances. Rangers dominated the possession and the tempo, while Celtic looked nervous and tentative. The home fans were in full voice, sensing a chance to extend their lead at the top of the cinch Premiership table.
Johnston, who was making his debut for Celtic after joining from Nashville SC in January, admitted that the team was disappointed with their performance in the first 45 minutes. He said that they were playing too safe and slow, and not taking enough risks.
Celtic changed their approach in the second half
However, everything changed after the break, as Celtic came out with a different attitude and mindset. They started to pass the ball forward more, press higher up the pitch, and challenge every ball. They also showed more confidence and belief, and did not care about the consequences.
Johnston said that the players had a chat at half-time and decided to go with a ‘f* it’ mentality, which helped them turn the game around.** He said that they realised that they had nothing to lose and that they had to give everything they had.
Celtic scored three goals in 15 minutes
The change in approach paid off, as Celtic scored three goals in the space of 15 minutes to stun Rangers and silence the crowd. Adam Idah, who had missed a penalty in the first half, scored twice in the 51st and 58th minutes to put Celtic ahead. Luis Palma, who had come on for Johnston in the 36th minute after he suffered a head injury, added a third goal in the 66th minute to seal the victory.
Johnston, who watched the second half from the hospital, said that he was proud of his team mates and that they showed their quality and character. He said that they proved that they can compete with Rangers and that they are still in the title race.
Celtic reduced the gap to two points
The win was a huge boost for Celtic, who reduced the gap to Rangers to two points, with a game in hand. The result also ended Rangers’ unbeaten run in the league, which had stretched to 22 games. Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers praised his players for their resilience and determination, and said that they showed their true colours in the second half.
Johnston said that the team has to keep the same ‘f* it’ mentality for the rest of the season, and that they have to be consistent and confident.** He said that they have to build on this win and keep pushing for the title, which is their main objective.
