Before Wednesday's game our favourites had a six game unbeaten run that included a dozen goals at home in three outings from seven players. The form tables and the bookies suggested that this should have been a straightforward win yet the players looked uncomfortable and unsure for most of the first half.
There was an over reliance on using Higdon as a target and an unwillingness to rely on the quick passing game that has delivered so much success. The defensive slip that led to the loss of the first goal did nothing to help the spooked mindset and some might say that we were fortunate to have only a one goal deficit at the break.
It was a different team that took to the field in the second half. The personnel had not changed nut the personalities were different. It was a pleasure to see them sweep forward with pace and determination. The visiting defenders wilted under the onslaught and we made the best of our opportunities.
The thrilling second period produced six goals and superb entertainment. It was an excellent advert for SPL football and the big crowd provided a great atmosphere. The attendance was, by some way, the biggest for a non Old Firm visit and it suggests that the cost of admission is a crucial factor. The circumstances that produced such a crowd were unique - an cut price Friday Night experiment abandoned followed by a generous issue of vouchers for the rescheduled even - and the game was not on live TV. Surely the lesson will be learned?
The team can rest up for a couple of days before the trial that awaits at Parkhead. We are in the fortunate and unusual position that there is a 12 point gap between us and the chasers so there should be no pressure on the players. They are entitled to 'have a go' at Celtic and if the right team takes to the field we might have a pleasant surprise on Saturday night.