Not even Angeball could prevent a hauntingly familiar showing from Celtic on their European travels – but perhaps it was the exhibition we needed to see.

Nails were being bitten, sharp intakes of breath taken and many a gasp in despair were audible – ach, it’s good to be back in Europe’s second most prestigious competition.

It was never going to be easy – it never is when it comes to the Bhoys in green and white – and while the tie was, by no means, over in Glasgow last week, Celtic fans would be forgiven for feeling a little bit more optimistic than usual heading into the second-leg in Alkmaar.

The Dutch outfit were undoubtedly a step-up in quality compared to what Ange Postecoglou had previously faced in his Celtic tenure – but they were not the threat some feared. The Hoops rode their luck on occasions and relied on a few impressive saves from Joe Hart, but never was Angeball in jeopardy of crumbling.

An oppugnant narrative followed on Thursday evening. Despite snatching an early lead, Celtic were repeatedly under the cosh. Too often the orchestrator of their own downfall as well… painful sight for the fans.

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The word ‘relentless’ – amongst others – has been synonymous with Ange Postecoglou’s style of play. Alkmaar were relentless in abundance. Their high press of Celtic’s young, nervy and un-streetwise defence persisted for the duration of the match – albeit they arguably tired in the final 15/20 minutes.

On too many occasions, from the edge of the seat, were many supporters – including me – shouting, urging, and crying for Carl Starfelt or Stephen Welsh to boot the ball right up the other end of the pitch. That’s not the Postecoglou way.

It’s all about playing out from the back. From goal-kicks to counter attacks. Too often was I left shaking my head in exasperation at Hart needlessly putting his inexperienced defenders under immediate pressure as he opted for the short ball.

Domestically. It has worked. And it’ll continue to work. But on the European stage – particularly away from home – there will be a demand for a more resolute and adaptable performance.

Perhaps an issue right now is, is that there isn’t the right personnel undertaking the roles required. Another centre-half is a necessity, and frankly, Postecoglou has more than proven his worth for the board to back him – who he wants he should get. And another holding midfielder seems likely. The tie was screeching for a James McCarthy to ensure Celtic got a foothold in the game, but already, his availability has been limited. Tom Rogic was not the man for this match. Instantly he was lost in the tempo and any moment he had the ball, Alkmaar were like a pack of hyenas hounding him.

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What has just been outlined is a familiar tale in recent times and it doesn’t make for the kindest of reading, but when what unfolded on Thursday night is put into perspective – it’s a rather monumental feat.

After Midtjylland, West Ham and even the league opener against Hearts – not even the most ardent Celtic fan would’ve thought the Europa League music would be ringing out at Parkhead underneath the disco lights this campaign. And certainly not by overcoming the third-best team from The Netherlands.

This was a tough tie to surmount – comfortably one of the more difficult sides Celtic have faced at this stage in qualifiers in recent years. Yet, here we are.

The frailties we knew that were still lurking were exploited, but the players dug deeper than they’ve done in a long time. Would Celtic have negotiated that outcome last season?

It was a bit of a reality check. A reminder to not get carried away just because already 24 goals have been scored. A reminder for both the club and supporters.

A fight was required and that’s what was put up. It’s going to be another fight on Sunday as Postecolgou’s side clashes with Rangers.

The tails are up, the fire is burning, and the excitement is tamed. Nobody can be too carried away as Thursday night showed the rough that comes with the smooth of Angeball – but perhaps that little wake-up call was exactly what was required.