Rangers midfielder John Lundstram scored an own goal and was sent off as Celtic took a massive step towards retaining the cinch Premiership title with a 2-1 victory in a Parkhead thriller.
Celtic moved six points and seven goals clear of their city rivals with two matches left and set themselves up to clinch the first silverware of Brendan Rodgers’ second spell in charge at Kilmarnock on Wednesday, if Rangers do not drop points at home to Dundee 24 hours earlier. A flurry of activity in the final 10 minutes of the first half saw Matt O’Riley and Lundstram put Celtic two up, Cyriel Dessers pull a goal back, and the Gers midfielder receive a red card for a foul on Alistair Johnston. Rangers had struggled to get a grip on O’Riley and Callum McGregor in midfield although they created several chances of their own in an action-packed opening period. O’Riley missed a penalty as Celtic struggled to finish off the game against 10 men but the final whistle sparked a party.
We give each starter a mark out of ten for their performance at Celtic Park.
17. Daizen Maeda
While he was not as devastating against James Tavernier than in previous matches, his pace led to the second goal and he himself had two efforts chalked off for offside in the second period. His energy ensured the Rangers defence had no peace for the whole match. Was booked for crowdsurfing as he celebrated one of Celtic's goals. 7 Photo: Andrew Milligan
18. Kyogo Furuhashi
The Japanese forward started well and had one big chance in the first half but his drilled effort was too close to Jack Butland. Faded out of the match afterwards and was replaced by Adam Idah for the final third. 6 Photo: Jane Barlow
19. James Forrest
So nearly chiselled out an early opening goal for Celtic when his driven cross was diverted goalwards by John Souttar. Celtic targeted Rangers' left side and Forrest played a part in that. Started to tire and was taken off for Nicolas Kuhn. 7 Photo: Craig Foy - SNS Group
20. Dujon Sterling
One of the best players on the pitch given the circumstances thrown at him. He assisted Rangers' only goal from wide right and then was moved to the unfamiliar surroundings of centre-half, where he largely excelled, putting in a series of excellent blocks. Can be proud of his performance. 8 Photo: Alan Harvey - SNS Group