Celtic Manager Praises Team's Resilience in Hard-Fought Victory

Celtic manager Martin O'Neill lauded his team's resilience following a challenging 2-1 victory over Hibs, deeming it the "best win of the season so far." The triumph came after a Europa League defeat and amidst adverse weather conditions.

Despite falling behind early at Easter Road, Celtic managed to secure three points with a comeback, highlighted by Camilo Duran's crucial goal just before halftime. However, the win was tempered by an injury to defender Alistair Johnston, who limped off with a suspected recurrence of a hamstring issue.

"All things considered, especially with the conditions, I thought it was our best win of the season so far," O'Neill stated. "Especially after going a goal behind early in the game, I’m delighted with the resilience and perseverance of the side."

O'Neill acknowledged the difficult playing environment due to strong winds, noting it was a factor in a "scrappy and error-strewn contest." He added, "It was a difficult afternoon for us for a number of reasons but I’m delighted we’ve come through it and shown real resilience."

Johnston's return to action after an extended period out lasted only 20 minutes before he sustained his injury. O'Neill expressed caution regarding the severity, stating, "He felt something a little bit high up in his hamstring. We don’t know yet the full extent of it, so we will have to wait and see."

Regarding striker Kasper Hogh, who has struggled to score in recent months, O'Neill reaffirmed his belief: "I know I keep saying this, but I do think the goals will come. I’m not just saying this to please myself or anything, I genuinely do believe he will come good."

Hibs manager Marink Reedijk, despite his team's third consecutive defeat, found positives in their fighting spirit. "What I saw is a team who kept on fighting and made it very difficult for Celtic," he said. "Celtic were very clinical. They didn’t create a lot, this is due to us. From there, we can build something."