Preview - Celtic (a)

The short answer is probably not. Whilst we have been more competitive in matches against Celtic than Rangers recently we still have a poor record at Parkhead. We have only picked up one point there in the last nine games and Celtic, after a poor start to the season, have improved.

Indeed, while they are three points behind Hearts they are six ahead of Rangers so it is hard not to view them as clear favourites for the title. We have an abysmal record at their patch and we struggle on large pitches – is there any point in turning up?

Well yes, actually. The Celtic defence, even though it’s improved, still gives us significant hope. Both their full backs are weak with Camara being particularly poor. McManus, on the evidence of the opening day, will not relish the thought of facing Hamilton and McDonald.

So what can we do to pressurise them? Changing the front pair back to the successful combo of Skippy and Hamilton will be a start but we also have to believe we can win. Celtic have been grinding out results but we know better than anyone that they are far from invincible. The remnants of the Seville team are still there but Lennon, Thompson, Sutton and Hartson are not nearly as daunting a prospect as they used to be.

However, sadly, only the most optimistic Motherwell fan will be able to predict that we will get something from the game. It is probably a more realistic target to put in a good performance and give them a fright, giving us something to build on for Saturday. That we shall achieve – 2-1 to Celtic, but only just.