In most running races it is important to start well to establish rhythm and confidence. And, obviously, to finish well – to have enough in the tank for a strong finish without either blowing up too early, or leaving anything on the track.
So, in football, being a low scoring sport, it is unusual for a team to come from behind to win. Indeed, in the SPFL this season, this has happened only ten times. The team establishing a lead has won 65 out of 90 league matches – 72 percent.
The highest proportion of goals are scored in the last ten minutes of matches once teams are tired and space becomes more available, and also the need for goals is usually more pressing.
How are the SPFL teams starting and finishing matches?
First 20 Minutes
A good start is very important then. Establish a lead and it is very difficult to be pulled back. It also sets the standard and tempo for the rest of the game.
Celtic, in particular, are noted for a fast aggressive start to matches.
Here is the net goal difference over the first 20 minutes of games:

Celtic are clear standouts with a net goal difference of +11 goals in the opening period of the 15 matches played so far. Indeed, they have only conceded one goal in this period – to Dundee United in early November. The importance of this is clear as that match required two strikes in added time to come back and secure a win.
No other team is a real standout in either respect although Hibernian are giving themselves small mountains to climb with a minus five goal difference after the opening exchanges.
Nearest challengers The Rangers are net neutral on goals scored and conceded with a mere three of each.
Ange Postecoglou’s insistence on a fast start is paying dividends then, as hauling back an early lead is statistically improbable as we have seen. Early goals have arrived in ten of the 15 games so far.
Last 20 Minutes
If we look at the period from the 70th minute out, how are teams finishing matches?

No surprise to see the two sides with the biggest budgets and playing squads far ahead in the later stages of matches.
The five-substitute rule has further provided advantages to the more monied clubs. Players can be subbed in of equal quality to those whom are tiring.
Celtic are +14 on goal difference in the last 20 minutes, scoring 17 and conceding just three. Their Glasgow rivals are 14-3 in this period.
No other team has a positive goal difference in the dying embers of matches, which is remarkable.
Summary
Celtic are performing well to their intentions of effecting a fast start to matches. Consequently, they have not yet lost or drawn a game from ahead in the league this season.
Equally, they finish strongly given the depth of squad and ability to deploy five equally talented players off the bench.
Meanwhile, rookie coach Mick Beale will no doubt be striving for his charges to start games stronger that they hitherto have.