BBC pundit points to aspect of Celtic win that will please Neil Lennon

James McFadden reckons Celtic boss Neil Lennon should be pleased with the fact the reigning champions didn’t crumble and concede a late equaliser in their 2-1 victory over Motherwell.

Diego Laxalt clears the ball off the line in the final minute, denying Motherwell and equaliser.

Celtic led 2-0 and seemed to be cruising for three points after Odsonne Edouard added to Stephen Welsh’s early header. However, a deflected goal from Allan Campbell brought Motherwell back into contention and suddenly the hosts didn’t look quite so impenetrable.

Though a draw would have been harsh on the home side, they could count themselves fortunate that a late Harry Smith header was nodded down into the ground, giving Diego Laxalt the opportunity to hook the ball off the line at the back post.

McFadden, however, feels Celtic’s ability to deal with what Motherwell threw at them represents progress.

He said on BBC Sportsound: “They came out of the blocks flying. The early goal helps but they were so comfortable. They weren’t just forcing balls into the box, they were picking out their crosses. They had so much control of the game.

“Then that goal goes in. How many times have we seen it this season where something happens and Celtic look vulnerable?

“Motherwell had two chances to draw level, both from cross balls. One Stephen Welsh blocked and the other was cleared off the line by Diego Laxalt. So you could spin it the other way and say they were put under pressure and they had to deal with balls in the box, but they dealt with them.

“So Neil Lennon can be very happy with the performance and the fact they didn’t crumble and concede a soft goal.”

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