It wasn’t a title decider, a cup final or crucial European tie but there was plenty to enjoy from Reo Hatate’s performance in the 4-0 win over Aberdeen.
Scoring goals always attracts attention but there was much more to his latest display than burying two shots past the Aberdeen goalkeeper.
In both goals Hatate showed incredible close control, every fan is attracted to different types of goals but Celtic’s third goal against the Dons will take some beating.
With a couple of touches Hatate took out three opponents as he fed the ball through to Callum McGregor, rather than take a breather the Japanese midfielder sensed an opportunity and was perfectly placed to take the return pass from his skipper and complete the move with a goal.
Reo Hatate vs Aberdeen pic.twitter.com/TU0bLfyUNX
— Tyler (@tyler_c88) February 19, 2023
Since the World Cup break and especially with the schedule of playing one game a week Celtic have upped their game with Hatate fully motivated rather than demoralised by missing out on a place in Qatar.
Over the next two weekends Celtic face the only domestic opponents to have denied them victory this season, two more prime Hatate performances could deliver one trophy and take another step towards retaining the SPFL title.