Celtic win Scottish championship
Saturday, 7 April 2001 15:23
Celtic clinched the quickest championship victory in 26 years thanks to a 1-0 victory over St Mirren at Parkhead this afternoon. Tommy Johnson's first half goal turned out to be enough in a match that was never the goal-feast many had predicted, with Saints battling gamely.
Celtic finally broke the deadlock in the 38th minute when Larsson unselfishly set up the unmarked Johnson in the box. His first touch was not good but he recovered to slot the ball under keeper Ludovic Roy and in off Scott Walker as the defender tried to block on the line.
Celtic manager Martin O'Neill has now clinched two-thirds of a trophy treble in a remarkable first season. Now only the Scottish Cup remains to be won in a season that has seen Rangers, formerly the indomitable force in Scottish football, totally eclipsed.
Celtic have already amassed a record points haul and could even top the ton before the season's end, but whatever the outcome the Hoops have now wrapped up their 37th title in the quickest time since 1975.
O'Neill sent out the same side who forced their way past Dundee in midweek with instructions to finish the job at the expense of the SPL's bottom club. With Chris Sutton still suspended, Johnson continued his partnership up front with Henrik Larsson.
The Swede is still a goal short of equalling Charlie Nicholas' post-war club record of 48 goals in all competitions. And he still needs two to equal Brian McClair's best ever Scottish Premier League haul of 35.
Filed by Seán Folan
