Celtic delivered a commanding second-half performance to secure a 4-1 victory over Hearts at Tynecastle Park, maintaining their momentum at the top of the Scottish Premiership.
After a lacklustre first half, the Hoops found their rhythm after the break, ensuring they stayed three points ahead of Aberdeen while extending their gap over Rangers to a significant 11 points.
Meanwhile, Rangers’ woes continued this weekend, as they failed to pick up a win against Dundee United, managing only a disappointing draw.
Despite the ongoing struggles, Philippe Clement’s position as manager appears secure for now, thanks to a recently signed long-term contract that complicates any potential decision to part ways.
Clement’s Optimism Amid the Storm
Clement’s tenure at Ibrox has been marked by his ability to find positives in difficult situations.
Even after losing a Glasgow Derby to Celtic earlier this season, the Belgian manager focused on stats like shots on target rather than the wider implications of the defeat.
His recent comments suggest he continues to cling to optimism despite the mounting pressure.
As reported by 67 Hail Hail, Clement told the Daily Record:
“Fans can think what they want. That is their right also. I never give up if something is not possible.
“I see also what I see in the second half and everybody also sees what I see in the second half. We need that level much more over the next couple of months and take many more points.
“Of course, it’s a big gap and you don’t know how many points other teams will lose along the way.
“But we need to get more points. And you see also, if you play like we played in the second half then we will get more points.
“But we need to put that as a standard as the team, for everybody, that’s what I said in the dressing room.”
Celtic’s Consistency vs Rangers’ Struggles
Rangers’ inability to deliver under pressure remains a glaring issue. The draw against Dundee United represented a missed opportunity to close the gap on Aberdeen.
Celtic, in contrast, responded to a poor first half against Hearts with a dominant second-half display, underlining their ability to handle the pressure and win when it matters most.
That mental edge is proving decisive. Celtic continue to build on their commanding position in the league, while Rangers’ inconsistency leaves them playing catch-up in both performance and confidence. For now, the Hoops look a class above their Old Firm rivals.
