Dedryck Boyata was the surprise Celtic hero as Brendan Rodgers’ side matched the Lisbon Lions achievement of 26 games undefeated from the start of the season.
It took a 71st minute header from the defender to break down St Johnstone’s resistance and take Celtic 22 points clear of Sevco at the top of the SPFL table.
Boyata was starting just his third game of the season but after the strong words from his manager after the win over Albion Rovers the Belgian retained his place in the side with Jozo Simunovic partnering him in central defence.
???? DB: “Not going to lie, been a very difficult time since the start of the season, but been working hard and waiting for this moment.” (MH)
— Celtic Football Club (@celticfc) January 25, 2017
DB: “I’m very happy with what has happened this week, not been listening to any speculation. Still a Celtic player.” (MH)
— Celtic Football Club (@celticfc) January 25, 2017
St Johnstone started strongly having the edge in the first half hour before Celtic started to stretch them and wear them down.
The second half was almost all Celtic pressure but they had to wait until 19 minutes from the end for Boyata to head home the only goal of the game from a corner.
With the record matched Celtic can now look to go one step beyond the Lions with a win over Hearts on Sunday opening up a new record as Rodgers side set about creating their own domestic records.
