Rodgers hails invincible status and gears up for treble bid
Celtic defeated Hearts 2-0 at Celtic Park in the final Scottish Premiership match of the season.
The Hoops fans got the spectacle underway with a full stadium display, and a rendition of ‘Champions 67′. This was to honour the 50th anniversary of the Lisbon Lions’ European Cup win.
Leigh Griffiths opened the scoring on the 50th minute after burying a Patrick Roberts pass. Stuart Armstrong then made it 2-0 to the Hoops on the 76th minute, after finishing on the rebound from Scott Sinclair’s shot.
The victory means that Brendan Rodgers’ side have gone the whole league season unbeaten. They are the only team in Celtic history to have reached 106 points and 106 goals. Martin O’Neill’s side previously held this record, after finishing the 2001/02 season on 103 points.
Rodgers spoke to the media after the match:
Over 100 years since it was done so tells you the difficulty of achieving it. A monumental achievement by the players.
What gets lost in amongst all the records is a real dedication to excellence shown from the players since I came in.
They will probably tell you themselves that they get pushed really hard, but hopefully they see the benefits.
A remarkable achievement, and this group of players will inscribe their names into the history of this incredible club.
We had to come in and win the game, and to beat the goals and wins record means it’s truly a fantastic day.
The Irishman commented on lifting the Scottish Premiership trophy:
It was quite heavy! It was a great feeling for everyone.
I’m really pleased for the board, delighted for the players and clearly delighted for the supporters.
Rodgers went on to comment on the Lisbon Lions’ 50th anniversary:
Very fitting that the team could honour the Lisbon Lions and the whole feeling around the 50th anniversary.
Playing in the type of way which is synonymous of that great Celtic team of ’67. That was important.
An incredible club. A special feeling I have here as a supporter but doesn’t take away professional aspect of the job.
Very much focused on our vision: to win titles and play with a charisma and a quality which makes supporters proud.
Celtic face Aberdeen on Saturday in the Scottish Cup final. It is the Bhoys’ last match of the season, and it is a crucial one.
The manager said:
I think about the next game. It’s been key to our season this year, never get too carried away.
Will get a good week to recover. Celebrate this success and get ready for that, will be a fantastic game at Hampden.
If the Hoops win they will become the first side, since O’Neill’s in 2001 to claim a domestic treble. Rodgers’ men will also be determined to finish the domestic season unbeaten.
Kick-off at Hampden Park is 15:00.