Wilfried Nancy claimed his second victory as Celtic manager as the Hoops edged a chaotic 4-2 win over Livingston at Almondvale in a thrilling Scottish Premiership encounter.
The result moves Celtic to within three points of leaders Hearts, who slipped up away to Hibs, and keeps the title race finely balanced heading into the new year. Despite Livingston sitting bottom of the table, David Martindale’s side started aggressively and stunned Celtic by opening the scoring inside three minutes.
What followed was a wildly unpredictable first half. Celtic fell behind twice in the opening ten minutes before Nancy’s attacking approach finally took control, with the Hoops roaring back to lead 4-2 by half-time in a breathless six-goal spell.
Speaking after the match, a delighted Nancy admitted there is still room for improvement despite the thrilling victory.
“I think we could have controlled the game a little bit better,” he told BBC Radio Scotland. “We need to decide when to attack quickly and when to keep the ball in their half. That’s the next step for us.
“But I really liked the attitude. The competitive spirit was excellent against a difficult team to play, with the context and the pitch. I’m really pleased.”
When asked if the expansive football on display reflected his vision for Celtic, Nancy was emphatic.
“Yes — this is why I’m here,” he said. “This is Celtic. It’s the club, the culture, a way of life.
“We want to score goals, but we also need to defend better. I can see a lot of good things already, step by step, but we know we can improve — especially in the second half.”
Stats highlight promise — and concern
BBC match statistics underlined both the excitement and the vulnerability in Nancy’s system. Celtic dominated possession and attacking phases, yet Livingston continued to pose a threat even when trailing by two goals.
That openness is likely to concern supporters ahead of tougher domestic tests and future European challenges. While the attacking play is eye-catching, defensive solidity remains a work in progress.
For now, Celtic fans can savour a statement win that ramps up the pressure on Hearts ahead of the final fixtures before the turn of the year — with the Bhoys firmly in contention to reclaim top spot before the January 3 Old Firm clash with Rangers.
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