The Gambler: Mowbray's Keane start pays off Pic: ©STV
Celtic manager Tony Mowbray revealed Robbie Keane was set to start Sunday’s match against Falkirk on the bench. The Republic of Ireland international played against Brazil midweek after overcoming a knee injury and Mowbray was reluctant to field the striker.
However, the gamble paid off and the on-loan striker netted in each half to secure Celtic’s 2-0 win over the Bairns and take them 10 points behind league leaders Rangers who have a game in hand.
"I was half tempted to put him on the bench today after midweek but I started him and he got his goals,” said Mowbray.
"He showed against Brazil the talented boy he is - he's scored a few goals for us - and he showed it again today, taking the two opportunities which came along. Hopefully we can keep him fit."
Mowbray described his team's performance as "composed" and "professional".
He continued: "We knew it would be a difficult day. They've given us problems in the past and the pitch probably wasn't going to suit what we were trying to do but we had a bit of composure and professionalism."
Falkirk counterpart Steven Pressley was disappointed with the final result but pleased by the shift his player put in.
"I thought we controlled the game for long periods and I'm devastated for the players. I thought they gave so much to the game,” he said.
"We had a number of opportunities over the course of the 90 minutes and created by far the better chances.
"The pitch was an issue for part of game but our level of football, considering the pitch, was brilliant today.
"The second goal was avoidable and disappointing but the performance was excellent and I've no complaints in terms of the players' effort."
The former Celtic player believes the Bairns can beat relegation, despite being three points adrift at the bottom of the table.
"My belief is we'll stay in this division. We've got St Johnstone here next week and winning that game becomes our focus."
