Celtic fans will be on cloud nine right now as the Hoops have had a brilliant start to life under Brendan Rodgers. After securing Celtic a place in the Champions League, the Northern Irishman now helped the Bhoys to move one point clear of arch-rivals Rangers at the top of the table and that too with a game in hand. The team looked a bit jaded in the first half and it was evident that the travel to Israel took a lot out of them.
Ever-reliable Leigh Griffiths gave Celtic the lead after just 13 minutes but Adam Rooney made things even in the 32nd minute. The Celtic player who probably loves playing under Rodgers the most, Forrest scored just before the half-time whistle to put Celtic ahead once again. Scott Sinclair made it 3-1 for Celtic in the 87th minute after winning the penalty himself as Mark Reynolds was sent off. Tom Rogic made in 4-1 in the 90th minute capping his Man of the Match display with a goal.
Here are Celtic player ratings from the game:
Dorus de Vries: 5.5/10
Was brought in by Rodgers as the Dutchman goes by the definition of a sweeper keeper but on his debut, the Dutchman’s passing wasn’t the best. Played a poor pass and would be grateful to Toure for bailing him out.
Mikael Lustig: 6/10
Was okay defensively and did not do too much on his overlaps as well. Overall, an average game.
Kolo Toure: 7.5/10
A brilliant performance from the Ivorian defender. Gave his heart out for the team and will be disappointed to concede the goal despite doing his best.
Erik Sviatchenko: 7/10
Had a sluggish start to the game but picked up as the game went on.
Kieran Tierney: 7/10
As always, the youngster was flawless in defence. A less adventurous day in attack for the Scottish international.
Scott Brown: 6/10
Looked tired and less committed. Could have done better to stop the goal.
Nir Bitton: 5.5/10
Was shaky in possession and just like his midfield partner, lacked the commitment.
James Forrest: 7/10
Scored one, created one- a good game from the 25-year-old who looks reborn under Rodgers.
Tom Rogic: 8/10
The Aussie international came up with a magical display. His footwork was jaw-dropping as he was the centre of everything positive for the Hoops. A brilliant free-kick goal.
Scott Sinclair: 7.5/10
The Englishman had a poor first-half but looked lively after the break. Looked to cut in every time he got the ball. Won a penalty and converted it himself.
Leigh Griffiths: 7.5/10
Scored a brilliant goal nutmegging the opposing defender. Could have added more to his tally if his finishing did not let him down.
Substitutes
Moussa Dembele: 6.5/10
Came on to replace Griffiths and looked lively as his hold up play was brilliant.
Patrick Roberts: 6.5/10
Made his comeback from injury and looked bright on the ball. Was direct with his running and put in a great cross for Dembele.
Callum McGregor: NA
Did not have enough time on the pitch.
