Celtic's emphatic 6-1 victory over Hearts at Celtic Park on Sunday has been identified by Record Sport's panel of pundits as a potential turning point in their season, though opinions remain divided on whether the champions have truly rediscovered their best form.
The Premiership leaders produced a scintillating display, with Camilo Duran scoring to make it 6-1, after a run of inconsistent results had raised questions about their title credentials. Hearts, described by one pundit as "honking," offered little resistance, but the performance has sparked debate about what it means for Celtic going forward.
Pundits Split on Celtic's Statement Victory
Keith Jackson suggested the win could indeed be the turning point, pointing to the key decisions to start Callum Osmand on the left, Camilo Duran through the middle, and Kasper Hogh on the bench. However, he cautioned that Celtic will need to bring their A-game against Celta Vigo on Thursday or they could be "right back to square one."
Michael Gannon said it was too early to say but described it as a "much needed statement victory and performance" from Celtic, noting there was a better balance to the team. He added that the Hoops will have too much for most domestic opponents but will need to work out how to play against teams who are not as hapless as Hearts were.
Ross Pilcher echoed the caution, saying it could be a turning point, though he would be amazed if anyone else made it as easy for them as Hearts did. He described Hearts' defending as "kamikaze stuff" and noted that the much-maligned Celtic defence looked as solid as they have all season.
Rangers' Title Challenge Questioned After Dens Park Draw
The panel also addressed Rangers' title credentials after they carelessly dropped two points at Dens Park. Keith Jackson said that depends on the reaction, noting the team has come a long way under Derek McInnes but needs to prove they have the stomach and resilience to take the campaign all the way.
Michael Gannon said it was no disaster after six league wins on the spin, describing Dens Park as a slippier place than most these days. Ross Pilcher said Rangers can still challenge but warned this can't become a habit, while Scott McDermott said there will always be doubts until they actually go and do it, noting genuine title contenders don't let games slip from their grasp too often.
Dundee's Top-Six Hopes and Motherwell's Slide
On Dundee, the panel were largely positive about their chances of making the top six. Keith Jackson praised Steven Pressley's job at Dens Park, noting they sit in fourth place and deserve to be there. Michael Gannon said they are defying gravity despite a wretched injury list, while Scott McDermott said Pressley will be disappointed if they don't finish in the top half.
Motherwell's five defeats on the bounce were also discussed, with Keith Jackson saying it's starting to look like Alfred Johansson is in serious trouble. Michael Gannon said the pressure is on but there will need to be patience, while Ross Pilcher said Johansson still has new boss credit in the bank but the Steelmen are in freefall. Scott McDermott said it would go against the club's principles to ditch the manager after a poor start, but Motherwell fans will be worried.
