Celtic threw away a one-goal lead late on against Hibs
Celtic fans have delivered an empathic verdict on their side’s title hopes, and it’s not a positive one.
Their side were without several key players for the crucial match against Hibs at Celtic Park on Monday night, with a total of 13 self-isolating following Christopher Jullien’s positive test for Covid-19.
Coach Gavin Strachan took charge in the absence of manager Neil Lennon and assistant John Kennedy, both of whom were also self-isolating.
In rainy conditions, Celtic produced an uninspired performance and managed just seven touches in their opponents’ box, but appeared to have clinched victory nine minutes from time.
David Turnbull gave them a glimmer of hope in the title race with his superb free-kick to put them 1-0 up, but as has so often been the case this season, Celtic’s optimism was short-lived.
Confusion in the home side’s box was capitalised on by Kevin Nisbet, who equalised deep into injury time.
It finished 1-1, meaning Neil Lennon’s side now trail Rangers by 21 points.
Even with three games in hand, the vast majority of supporters appear resigned to Steven Gerrard’s men ending the champions’ hopes of a historic tenth successive title.
In a 15-minute Twitter poll conducted shortly after the full-time whistle, over 4,600 Celtic fans voted on whether or not they believed the title race is over.
An overwhelming majority admitted defeat, even with four months of the season remaining.
91.1% said they believed Celtic’s chances were gone, with only 8.9% keeping the faith.
The majority of those who commented were resigned to their fate.
Some replies were less serious than others.
Celtic can, at least temporarily, reduce the gap to 18 points on Saturday when they play host to Livingston. Rangers meet Motherwell at Fir Park the following day.
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