Celtic and Ange Postecolgou today saw off Czech Republic side FK Jablonec 4-2 in the 3rd round of Europa League Qualification. Finally a result to build off of. There was plenty to take away from the action at Stadion Střelnice Liel Abada showing some class with a goal and an assist. James Forrest following suit with a goal and assist, which was such a welcoming sight as his participation was sorely missed last season. Joe Hart also made his debut for The Hoops between the sticks. Let's unpackage this win a bit, shall we?
The win today was welcomed for a variety of reasons. Progression in a European competition is always welcome, as was seeing debutant Joe Hart pulling on the Green and White for the first in hopefully many wins. Celtic dominated possession with 66% and had a total of 17 shots, 8 of which were on target. I do not think it was beyond Celtic to have won this game perhaps with 5 or 6 goals, but I digress. Four to the good will suffice and we go into the second leg next week with this advantage. Also great to see was that we saw four different goal scorers today (five if you count Bitton's own goal...). The attacking mindset of Celtic was very encouraging. Even though Jablonec's side set up to try and limit the time on the ball, it simply did not work. True, we will face tougher opponents. But seeing this type of hunger and enthusiasm was exciting to see.
However everything wasn't sunshine and rainbows. The backline is still truly in need of some sort of intervention. Ralston was having difficulty dealing with this side, what will happen when we face tougher opposition? With Jullien's recovery being pushed back further, I think reinforcement in this backline is integral to a more well-balanced side. Not to mention we still have not replaced Frimpong's departure at right back... that show is somehow continuing to play on.
All in all, 4 goals being scored is of great promise. It is good to see a manager giving life to squad members that are inevitably the future, as well as brining in new blood. The attacking sense Ange's game is encouraging and if we are able to sort out the backline (looking at you Board), then I believe Celtic will have a fruitful season ahead of them. #Celtic #CelticFC