Celtic manager Martin O’Neill admitted his side surrendered possession too easily after Rangers secured a dominant 3-0 Premier Sports Cup quarter-final victory at Ibrox on Sunday.
Dan Neil scored twice and Kevin Kelsy added a third to eliminate the Parkhead club from the competition. The heavy defeat exposed severe tactical flaws as Celtic failed to match their opponents’ intensity in midfield and struggled to retain the ball under pressure.
Midfield Frailties And Systemic Flaws
Speaking to the Daily Record, O’Neill refused to blame formations for the structural collapse. “But if you do misplace a lot of passes, when you have comfortable possession, I don’t think that’s got to do with the systems, myself,” O’Neill said.
The Northern Irishman noted several individuals were well below par during a tie that provided a harsh Old Firm baptism for recent arrivals. O’Neill conceded his squad must recover the ball faster to reestablish domestic dominance.
Donovan Provides Lone Bright Spot
The Celtic manager reserved his only praise for teenage midfielder Colby Donovan, who battled tirelessly in the holding role despite an early caution. “I think young Colby Donovan has come out of this with great credit. I think he’s an absolute warrior,” O’Neill added.
Celtic host Ferencvaros in their Europa League opener this week before hosting a Premiership rematch against Rangers on Sunday.
