Celtic defender Julian Araujo was playfully put on the spot by Martin O’Neill after netting the dramatic winner against Kilmarnock.
The right back struck in the 96th minute to complete a stunning turnaround as Celtic claimed a 3-2 victory at Rugby Park. At the interval, the visitors were staring at defeat after Tyrece John-Jules and Joe Hugill had given Kilmarnock a two goal advantage.
Celtic responded with real determination after the restart. Sebastian Tounekti sparked the revival with a superb long range effort that flew into the top corner. Benjamin Nygren then brought the champions level, reacting quickest when a long throw into the box was not properly cleared and slotting home from close range.
With the match seemingly heading for a draw, Tomas Cvancara drove a low ball across goal that found Araujo in space. The defender kept his composure and drilled a left footed finish beyond Kelle Roos to seal the points, prompting wild scenes among the travelling support. Araujo raced toward the stands and jumped into the celebrating fans as some spilled onto the pitch in delight.
Even so, O’Neill could not resist a light hearted dig at his match winner. Interrupting Araujo’s post match interview, he joked that questions should focus on the defender’s first half showing.
Araujo laughed off the comment, replying that they could discuss that later.
Speaking afterwards, O’Neill admitted there were moments before the break when he might have reconsidered his recent praise of the full back. However, he was quick to applaud Araujo’s decisive contribution.
“For him to get into that position so late in the game was terrific,” O’Neill said. “I still need to watch it back properly, but I am told he still had plenty to do to finish it. Fair play to him, he certainly made amends for some of the rashness earlier in the match.”