Martin O’Neill says Celtic defeat is a setback in title tilt | OneFootball

Celtic manager Martin O’Neill has insisted that the title race is not over despite the 2-1 defeat at Celtic Park this afternoon. The Scottish Champions failed to capitalise on the dropped points by Rangers and were sucker punched by the visitors from Easter Rd.

Speaking to BBC Sportsound after the game, O’Neill claimed his side were still in the title race as he praised the application from the players.

“It’s a setback, that’s all it is. We’re still in the race.

“I thought we were absolutely terrific. The players put heart and soul into the game. No complaints on that side whatsoever.”

Speaking about the decision to send Auston Trusty off, MON suggested that it was a harsh call by the officials to brand the flashpoint as violent conduct.

“I can only go on what the referee told me. He was just going to have a word with the two players then VAR has intervened to say it was violent conduct.

“It looked pretty harsh considering the player was holding on to Trusty.

“We had a good claim for a penalty too with Scales being held, his shirt is being tugged and it’s not given.”

O’Neill did concede that there could be no room for error as his side look to retain the title.

“We’ve been chasing for months now. There’s not much room for error but we can still fight back.

“The players are disappointed but it’s not over.”