Alistair Johnston’s recent return to Celtic’s starting lineup came with an unexpected twist during the match against Motherwell.
After suffering a significant facial injury at Easter Road, which led to a hospital visit and missing crucial games, the Canadian international was back on the pitch wearing a protective mask.
However, as the teams returned for the second half, eagle-eyed fans noticed that Johnston had discarded the mask, a move that he later described as almost symbolic.
Reflecting on his decision to remove the mask at halftime, Johnston admitted, “It just felt it needed to go. It almost felt symbolic. The first half wasn’t my best football.” This change seemed to coincide with a shift in the game’s momentum, as Celtic turned their performance around in the second half. Johnston humorously credited part of the team’s improved display to his decision, stating [RecordSport], “It just felt like, ‘Let’s get this thing off and see what happens’. It did turn around, so I’m going to take part credit for that – the mask going and the bad juju it had.”
Celtic started quick after the break, with Adam Idah heading home his first goal from open play. But the Hoops had to wait until after the 90th minute before he scored his second of the afternoon to put Celtic ahead. Then, in what was virtually the last kick of the ball, Luis Palma secured the win, netting Celtic’s third goal of the afternoon, his sixth of the season.
Johnston’s actions and the subsequent turnaround in Celtic’s fortunes highlight the psychological aspects of football, where confidence and comfort can significantly impact a player’s performance. His choice to play without the mask, despite its protective purpose, underscores the balance athletes often must strike between physical safety and optimal performance levels.
