Aberdeen parked the bus around their 18-yard box on Saturday as Jim Goodwin took a very defensive approach against Celtic, despite being at home. Despite being minutes away from a draw, ultimately, the Dons suffered defeat though. But the much-criticised tactics on the day have been backed by David Martindale, manager of the Hoops’ next opponents Livingston.
The Celtic players remained patient and underlined once again Ange Postecoglou’s ‘We never stop’ mantra to secure a win thanks to Callum McGregor’s goal in the 87th minute of the game.
The very defensive set up by Aberdeen seem to leave their own fans frustrated. It was pretty clear that they were playing not to lose rather than to win.
Martindale wasn’t critical of Goodwin or his approach on Saturday. As reported by BBC Sport, the Livingston manager said about the Aberdeen manager’s tactics:
"“When did Celtic score? The 87th minute. So Jim was minutes away from a 0-0 draw. I wonder if there would have been so many berating him on social media then.”“It doesn’t matter what shape [you play]. He [Jim Goodwin] genuinely went on the park with two strikers but you have to look at Celtic’s dominance at certain times in the game.“They did it against Real Madrid for a large majority of the Champions League game. They force you into a deep block with their style of play and the players they have.“It’s very, very harsh on the managers at times when fans are looking for you to be more aggressive. It’s very difficult for you to implement your game against a top side.”"
Martindale backs Aberdeen’s tactics before facing Celtic
Next up for Celtic is a home tie against Livingston on Wednesday evening. That’s usually a tough match against an uncompromising and well set up team. Could they also be aiming to park the bus in front of goal in hopes of avoiding conceding?
Those comments might lead you to think a similar display might follow from Livingston in midweek. But in the recent past Martindale’s side have managed goals and also a victory against Celtic.
The Hoops are used to having to break down tough defences, and it’d dangerous for opponents to be open at the back against Postecoglou’s side.
But despite that, one would think that Martindale will try to ensure that his forwards see more of the ball in midweek than Aberdeen’s did on the weekend. Let’s see how things play out but expect Livingston to come to Parkhead with a defensive approach as well and a wall of defenders in front of goal.