Celtic

Hartson delivers verdict on Celtic win v Rosenborg

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Image for Hartson delivers verdict on Celtic win v Rosenborg

BT Sport pundit John Hartson believes that Celtic “must improve”, but singled out Leigh Griffiths for saving “the day” in the last-gasp 1-0 win over Rosenborg in the Europa League on Thursday.

Brendan Rodgers’ men were unable to find a way through their resilent opponents for the majority of the match, but Griffiths headed home three minutes from time to secure their first European group stage home win in 11 games.

The former Hoops’ player pointed out the fact that his old side must improve, but it was the 5ft 9in [Transfermarkt] ace who was on the receiving end of his praise in this “big, big win.”

He said on his Twitter: “Love wee Griff.. saved the day ! Yes we know Celtic must improve but Winning takes care of a lot of things.. Big Big win.”

OPINION

Hartson is right – Celtic must improve upon this performance, especially if they are to progress any further in this competition. Yes, they did grab the win at the death, but this is not a tactic that they can rely on too much. They need to be more convincing, as they are a lot more capable of what they showed on Thursday. However, this 1-0 win will do the Hoops a lot of confidence going into their league game with Kilmarnock on Sunday – a game that Celtic must win in order to keep up with league leaders Hearts, who are five points ahead on 15. Nevertheless, a victory is a victory, and that should not be taken away from them. Leigh Griffiths did save their skins, and he might have just warranted himself a place in the first team more often, as he was only used as a substitute in the 76th minute to replace Odsonne Edouard.

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