It was a very Celtic victory. A very Ange Postecoglou performance. Demonstrating all the strengths – and a few of the weaknesses – we’ve come to expect from his team.
The first major trophy of the season went to the Hoops because they had more of the ball, controlled key areas of a sticky Hampden pitch not overly suited to their style – and rode out the storm that hit once Rangers got a grip of themselves. Above all, Celtic looked the more rounded, better-drilled team. Especially in the department where so many games are decided.
The midfield three of Callum McGregor, Aaron Mooy and Reo Hatate ran through, around and over the top of the Rangers trio of John Lundstram, Glen Kamara and – especially – Malik Tillman to take control where it mattered. Time and again, Hatate and Mooy were able to get on the ball in the space between the Rangers midfield and defence.
