RONNY’S WARNING

Deila: Draw shows Treble is far from certain

RONNY DEILA last night admitted that Celtic’s latest struggle against Inverness proved his team’s pursuit of a domestic treble is far from a foregone conclusion.

Although yesterday’s 1-1 draw should not have any material effect on Celtic’s bid to land a fourth successive championship, Deila’s side will have to beat the Highlanders next Sunday if they are to reach the Scottish Cup Final.

Having lost at the Caledonian Stadium back in August, the Norwegian’s team have taken just one point from six away from home against John Hughes’ men and the coach concedes they will pose another formidable test on the neutral territory of Hampden in the semi-final.

‘The semi is going to be a tough game,’ admitted Deila. ‘Inverness are the third team in the league. Few teams have done it before, winning the Treble, and you can see why it’s difficult. You need to be up for every game and be ready. I think this shows the game next Sunday is going to be even and we have to be really up for it.’

Although yesterday’s match got off to a spectacular start with goals from Leigh Griffiths and Edward Ofere inside the first five minutes, the game descended into a war of attrition in particularly blustery conditions.

There was one moment of controversy when Celtic captain Scott Brown was booked for diving inside the penalty area by referee Craig Thomson. Deila, who must now prepare his players for a midweek league fixture against Kilmarnock, defended his player.

‘I haven’t seen it again but Scott Brown is the last man in the world anyone can accuse of diving. He is a tough guy,’ he said.

‘It’s hard for me to say what happened but it’s not a big issue for me.’