Despite the substantial wranglings and arguments put forward by some others, at Monday’s SPFL board meeting, much to Rangers’ annoyance no doubt, member clubs opted to bring the season to an end – and in doing so, award a 51st league title to Celtic – along with our matching of nine in a row.
💬 “Together we have shown that we are a powerful force and once again the best team in the country.” 9️⃣🏆
Your #9INAROW winning manager, Neil Lennon! ✅💚#StayHomeStaySafe
— Celtic Football Club (@CelticFC) May 18, 2020
With a significant points gap over our nearest rivals, it was the only sensible outcome given the stage of the season football was paused at, and although Hearts will undoubtedly feel aggrieved at their relegation, owing to Coronavirus and the significant financial strain everyone is taking – whilst it’s far from a perfect outcome, it is the only sensible one really.
Speaking to Sky Sports News after the meeting concluded, chairman Murdoch MacLennan said of the decision to ratify the end of 2019/20 in this manner.
“Firstly, I would like to take this opportunity to officially congratulate Celtic on their achievement of winning the Ladbrokes Premiership this season, and also to sincerely commiserate with Hearts on their relegation. We would all have rather seen the league season played out on pitches, in stadiums and in front of supporters. This is not the way anybody involved with Scottish football would have wanted to conclude the league season but, given the grave and unprecedented circumstances that we are facing, the board has agreed that it is the only practical way forward.”
Obviously there were plenty of happy and smiling faces for Celtic as the news came through, and manager Neil Lennon knew exactly what the title meant this year, even if it came in these strangest of circumstances.
Quoted by Sky as confirmation came through, our manager beamed.
“It is a momentous day for the club. We will have supporters of a certain vintage who will remember the first time Celtic did nine in a row. They probably couldn’t believe this could happen again and it’s a fantastic day for everyone associated with the club. We’re all very, very proud, particularly of the players. Going into this season, we knew that nine was within our grasp but still so far away. It was a pressure season but we smashed it, particularly the second half. Some of our football was absolutely outstanding. We were on track for 100 goals and 100 points. The consistency, the quality and the exciting football we played was really pleasing. As well as the players, I have to pay tribute to my backroom staff. The professionalism and the work ethic has been fantastic.”
The celebrations and fall out from this will continue for the rest of the week I imagine – I’m off to raise a toast!
Right Result, Yes Or No?
Silly Question 100% Yes
Should've Given It A Bit Longer, But Still Correct
No, Should've Waited & Finished It On The Pitch
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