Celtic earned what could prove to be a vital point in their quest for European progression after a 2-2 draw away at Bologna.
Martin O’Neill’s side played over an hour with ten men and put in a dogged defensive display take something from the Serie A side. They now sit on eight points in the standings and a win in their final match against Dutch side Utrecht next Thursday could earn them a place in the Europa League play-offs.
Celtic raced into the lead on five minutes through Reo Hatate, but the Japanese blotted his copybook with two bookings by the 34-minute mark. Despite the red card, Celtic nabbed a second just before the break when Auston Trusty netted.
Celtic needed the two-goal cushion as they came under siege in the second half. Thijs Dallinga (58) and Jonathan Rowe (72) managed to breach Celtic’s resistance, but they defending manfully and resisted more than 30 shots to take a point back to Glasgow.
Here are the Celtic player ratings from the Stadio Renato Dall’Ara.
1. Kasper Schmeichel
Made some very smart saves to earn Celtic a point. Looking more and more like his usual self as each game passes under the current coaching team. 7 | Getty Images
2. Colby Donovan
Battled away all evening, putting his body on the line with numerous blocks. Did lose Dallinga for Bologna's first goal and took a few blows in collisions. Came off for Ralston. 7 | AFP via Getty Images
3. Liam Scales
Kept his positional discipline and made loads of big tackles. Passed a stern test and clearly revels working in Martin O'Neill's system. Led by example. 8 | AFP via Getty Images
4. Auston Trusty
Where to start with the American? All manner of blocks - including one with his crotch - or the second goal that allowed Celtic to glean a potentially precious point? The American was a vital component in a dogged defensive performance. One of the best players on the pitch. 9 | Getty Images