Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers admitted he did not witness the incident involving Vaclav Cerny and the home supporters behind the dugout.
Despite holding a commanding 13-point lead at the top of the Premiership with just eight games remaining, Rodgers refused to use that as an excuse for Celtic’s disappointing display in their 3-2 defeat to Rangers. The loss marked the first time the Hoops boss had suffered a home defeat to their Glasgow rivals and also made it back-to-back defeats against the Ibrox side.
Celtic endured a disastrous first half, falling 2-0 behind before fighting back to level the score at 2-2. However, a late screamer from Hamza Igamane sealed the win for Rangers. The dramatic ending sparked chaotic scenes behind the visitors’ dugout, as police had to intervene after Cerny appeared to spray water into the crowd.
Rodgers, however, remained focused on his team’s performance rather than the post-match controversy. He was clear that the league standings had no impact on their underwhelming performance, saying:
*”It can’t be an excuse. Whether the gap is one point, 16, or whatever it is, that doesn’t matter. We simply didn’t defend well enough. We weren’t mentally sharp with or without the ball, and when that happens, a good team will punish you.
“We were much better in the second half. We got the goal, and it felt like a matter of time before we would win. But from that position, we should never go on to lose the game.”*
Rodgers acknowledged the defensive frailties that have plagued his side in recent derbies, with Celtic conceding nine goals in their last three meetings with Rangers. He admitted it was a growing concern, stressing the need for improvement at the back.
“That’s something we need to address. Defensively, we have to be stronger and more secure. But a big part of that also comes down to keeping possession better. When you give the ball away too easily, you hand the initiative to the opposition. Ultimately, the goals we conceded were very poor.”
Daizen Maeda and Reo Hatate had dragged Celtic back into the contest, and Rodgers was confident his team would go on to secure the victory. However, he conceded that a draw would have been a fair result.
“We had the momentum at 2-2, and there was great energy in the stadium. I felt we were in control and had the upper hand. Jack Butland made some excellent saves, but if you can’t win, then at least don’t lose. Unfortunately, we made a mistake, and their striker finished it brilliantly.”
The Celtic boss also admitted that the absence of injured captain Callum McGregor was a major blow, along with missing Auston Trusty.
“We missed Callum, no question. His tactical awareness, movement, and ability to dictate play are crucial for us. Without him, we weren’t as fluid. But when he’s unavailable, others need to step up, and we must be better.”
Meanwhile, Maik Nawrocki made a surprise return to the starting lineup, earning Rodgers’ praise for his performance despite a lack of game time this season.
“I thought he did really well. I told him that in the dressing room afterward. For someone who hasn’t played in nearly a year, it shows his professionalism and dedication in training. He lasted the full game, and that speaks volumes.”
As for the heated scenes after Rangers’ winner, Rodgers played down the situation, admitting:
“I didn’t see it. I was checking the screen to have another look at the goal.”
