Mowbray’s Defining Managerial Moment.​

12 games to salvage a season that – although mired in refereeing controversy – has proved to be a great disappointment thus far.

That is the scenario facing Tony Mowbray and his team, ahead of arguably the most crucial encounter of the SPL season to date.

While Rangers’ lead at the top of the league table was cut to 7 points last week, with the Ibrox outfit’s game the victim of a late call-off as a result of adverse weather conditions, the 3rd instalment of this year’s Old Firm fixtures is a must-win for Celtic.

Sub-standard refereeing – and that is this writer being at his most generous – has wreaked havoc with the previous two encounters this term. From a failure to give the most blatant of penalties in match one, to the absurd ruling out of a Marc-Antoine Fortune “goal” in match two, it is clear that Celtic have not had the rub of the green.

Fortune - victim of woeful refereeing.​

Nonetheless, all three goals conceded against Walter Smith’s men have been as a result of defensive failings – an issue that has blighted the entire season. While Jos Hooiveld is certain to miss out, and Glenn Loovens is rated unlikely, in to the breach step two young men whose combined age is less than that of Gers stalwart David Weir.

The two young men are, of course, Thomas Rogne and Josh Thompson – players with renowned pedigree, but who are short on experience. While the cauldron-like atmosphere will undoubtedly prove daunting, Mowbray has proven faith in his two charges – pitching them both in at times when many felt playing others out of position was the best way to solve the defensive crisis.

Outwith the back four, Celtic are fortunate to be able to call on the services of talismanic striker Robbie Keane.

Keane - making his mark with boyhood heroes.​

Keane, a lifelong Celtic fan, has attended Old Firm matches in the past – sitting in the stands – and the classy forward is relishing his first taste of the match hands-on:

“It doesn’t get any better than an Old Firm game. I’m really looking forward to being a part of that,” Keane stated.

“The most important thing is winning and putting pressure on Rangers. We’ll be going to Ibrox to win. Rangers are playing well just now but the pressure is all on them. I did say it would take me three or four games to get into the swing of things. I’m doing that, and I’ve started to score now. Long may it continue.”

A massive game, on which Celtic’s entire season may well hinge. Defensive strength, and attacking prowess will be vital for the Bhoys. This is the defining moment of Tony Mowbray’s managerial tenure this far, and anything other than victory will spell the end for a season that promised so much – but has yet to deliver.


DM