Celtic’s triumph against Dundee could turn out to be crucial come the end of the season but for now, it has shifted the title race back in their favour.
A 2-1 victory at Dens Park has left the Bhoys two points behind Rangers and three off league leaders Hearts with six to play.
Derek McInnes appeared anxious after his side’s draw with Livingston while Martin O’Neill was irritated with Celtic’s performance on Sunday. Even if there is work to be done, the Hoops are now the frontrunners.
Celtic have three major advantages in title race
There are three advantages Celtic have in the title race that neither one of Hearts or Rangers can relate to in this current situation.
Celtic need to win all of their matches
With Hearts and Rangers currently above them in the table, the Bhoys have a much simpler task: win every fixture.
With six games remaining, 18 points are up for grabs. That also includes matches against their two title rivals. Rather than worry about where points could be dropped, focusing on securing three points will ensure they lift the title at Parkhead.
Celtic face Hearts and Rangers at home
While we are unsure of when Celtic will face Hearts and Rangers, one certainty is that both encounters will be played in front of 60,000 Hoops supporters.
After travelling to Tynecastle and Ibrox twice this year, the fourth league meeting of the campaign against each side will provide O’Neill’s squad with a significant advantage.
Home form has been much stronger for the Bhoys too whereas on the road they have only won just over half of their encounters.
Celtic have experience of finishing on top in the title race
This year is certainly tense but it is worth remembering that we have been here before and that these Celtic players have experience of winning.
For Hearts, they are feeling the burden of being cheered on by every other club (aside from Hibernian) to knock the two Glasgow clubs off their pedestal and become the first side since Aberdeen in the 80s to win the top flight.
As for Rangers, they have only secured one league title in the last 15 years and three domestic trophies since 2012. Winning is a novelty to them whereas for Celtic, it is non-negotiable.
It may not seem like a major factor, but that mindset goes a long way in a title race.