Celtic supporters were given their first glimpse of their new January arrival in action against Hearts at Tynecastle.
Martin O’Neill wasted no time in making his mark, throwing Tomas Cvancara straight into the starting XI for Celtic’s summit showdown with Hearts.
Despite Celtic taking the lead on two occasions, including an assist from Cvancara, the Scottish champions were forced to settle for a share of the spoils.
Auston Trusty’s dismissal proved to be a decisive moment, and Cvancara reflected the mood inside the dressing room after Celtic’s 2-2 draw with Hearts.
Tomas Cvancara doesn’t hold back as he reacts to Celtic’s draw at Hearts
Let’s be frank, it wasn’t a classic. The match lacked rhythm, with very little flowing football on display. It was scrappy, cautious, and the overall standard from both teams left a lot to be desired.
Cvancara worked tirelessly throughout the first half, but too often his Celtic teammates failed to play to his strengths.
When they finally did, he delivered a moment of quality, later admitting the match was ‘very difficult’ and stressing that ‘we aren’t happy’ to come away with just a point.
Speaking to Celtic TV, Cvancara acknowledged that while the Hoops haven’t done themselves any favours in the Premiership title race, ‘it’s not over until it’s over.’
“It was quite a difficult game,” admitted Cvancara. “A lot of duels. A lot of long balls. We aren’t happy with one point. We can win the game, but in the end, one point is quite okay.
On the feeling in the dressing room: “We were winning 2-1, so in the end, we conceded two goals via set-pieces. I would say that it is our mistake. We will work on that and get better.
On his own performance: “I would say it was very difficult. For me, I arrived three days ago, and I have lots of flights. It was a difficult game. I can help with better performances.
“I am happy I can make an assist to Yang, but I would say that I could offer a little bit more.
On winning the title: “It’s not over until it’s over, right?”
Cvancara’s stats for Celtic against Hearts
It’s worth remembering that Cvancara has only just arrived and has barely had time to train with his new teammates.
As he becomes more settled and those around him grow more familiar with his style of play, the Celtic Park crowd should start to see more of what he can offer.
Based on his debut display against the Premiership leaders, Sofascore awarded Cvancara an impressive rating of 7.
Minutes played: 66
Total shots: 2
Hit the woodwork: 1
Assists: 1
Touches: 21
Was fouled: 2
Carries: 5
Tackles won: 1
Ground duels won: 3
Aerial duels won: 4
Sofascore rating: 7