Celtic conceded two goals from set plays against Aberdeen. This triggered the usual dual response from pundits and some supporters alike bemoaning Celtic’s ability to defend crosses and set plays in particular. But, is this fair? Context Firstly, kudos to Aberdeen for two well executed set plays from Ojo. Both were very well delivered. The … [continue reading]
Manager Performance
Managing Risk on the Postecoglou Rollercoaster
Celtic started the latest transfer window with an array of first team players returned to their host clubs, wanting to leave, running down contracts and potentially not required by a new manager. Eight senior pros left. Ten first team squad members have been purchased since. Has an enormous level of change provided Postecoglou with the … [continue reading]
Time for Postecoglou
As I sit here, melting and keeping out the fierce sun, my daughter is watching a Dr Who. This reminds me of one of the long-standing jokes in my old role in IT Programme Management whenever a tricky and time critical (aren’t they all?) project came along. Step 1: Build a Time Machine. I know, … [continue reading]
Celtic’s Performance Data: The Case for Change
The points raised in this blog were discussed on Episode 4 of The Huddle Breakdown. Please follow, share and watch/listen. We are now in a place where surrendering a 2-goal lead and conceding another 4 goals is considered “excellent at times” and “a lot to be positive about” by Lennon. Results wise, Celtic’s current run … [continue reading]
Lennon’s Celtic: An Appraisal By Numbers
We’re back because this is important. Calls for the sacking of a manager, especially one as decorated and with the storied history with Celtic that Lennon has, deserves special consideration. Celtic’s form this season, by anyone’s eyes, has been disjointed and laboured. Recent results, a supine derby defeat, a rudderless first half against AC Milan, … [continue reading]
Derby Chess Series
By James Dailey The pandemic shutdown prevented supporters from having the opportunity to witness the next chapter in the season-long tactical chess match between Neil Lennon and Steven Gerrard. I recently analyzed The Rangers under Gerrard in this recent piece, while this analysis is focused upon this season’s derbies. As a refresher, this data shows … [continue reading]
Lennon’s Pressing Concern?
Rodger’s Celtic were moulded to play in a high pressing style out of possession. He is heavily influenced by Guardiola whose Barcelona team were famously assertive in the press out of possession. Has Lennon changed Celtic’s defensive style? PPDA For a number of years Passes Per Defensive Action (PPDA) has been accepted as a useful … [continue reading]
Know Thy Enemy
By James Dailey Now that Celtic have earned 9 in a row, it is time to look forward to securing 10. The overwhelming consensus I hear and read with regards to this past season’s campaign is that we ran away with the league, that Steven Gerrard is overrated and perhaps lucky to keep his job. … [continue reading]
Lennon Ends What He Started
The 9 in a row parties were likely more subdued that we’d all like, but as James showed yesterday, this was a dominant Celtic season in the league to clinch the nine – no limping over the line. Average Points Ultimately Celtic won the league on points average – simply the number of points divided … [continue reading]
The Best of 9IAR
By James Dailey I believe we may have just finished witnessing the best Celtic team of the current 9 in a row run. I am even more certain it is the best of the Treble run. I only have access to advanced stats dating back to the 2015/2016 season, so the following is a simple … [continue reading]