Squad depth issues on show

Postecoglou’s men were utterly dominant and early stats suggest they had over 80 percent of the ball but they didn’t create nearly enough on the night. Without creative forces Kyogo and Jota, their attacking options are stretched and the drop-off in quality to those in reserve is stark. This isn't news to the Aussie boss who intends to rectify matters with January signings but there's no doubting it's an issue that continues to be costly. Young Owen Moffat is clearly a talented kid with serious technical chops but he still carries the rawness of youth. While Abada is a terrific finisher for a winger, he’s not a natural central striker. Mikey Johnston is mercurial and operates better when there’s wide-open spaces to attack. In short, the tools were not ideal for the job against a determined, deep-lying defence. 

Dropped points aren’t a catastrophe 

Celtic may now be six points behind Rangers in the title race and while that’s a big advantage for the men from Govan it need not be a fatal wound. Ange Postecoglou has shown he’s a very able coach and he’s dramatically improved the team, giving them a clear identity. What they clearly lack is the depth of squad to cope with the rigours of the season. The Hoops will want to pick up the three points against St Johnstone on Boxing day then look to do some serious work in the January window to reinforce the squad. With three games left to play against Rangers, nothing is decided at this stage. 

Lyness impresses

Dean Lyness may not have played too often this season but it didn't stop him standing tall in the face of relentless Celtic attacks. Ange Postecoglou's dominated the game and had several chances but found themselves up against a stopper in inspired form. He saved brilliantly from Mikey Johnston before tipping a lovely Nir Bitton free-kick around the post. The performance was all the more remarkable given the 30-year-old had only one 90 minutes under his belt so far this season in the League Cup against Stenhousemuir and was making his debut league appearance this season.