Having secured their sixth Premiership title in a row, Brendan Rodgers’ Celtic F.C. are eyeing an unbeaten domestic campaign and their Saturday afternoon fixture against St. Johnstone allowed the gaffer to rotate his squad at Celtic Park. Rodgers handed Premiership debut to two of the Bhoys’ academy prodigies – Tony Ralston and Michael Johnston. The game, however, proved to be another cakewalk for the Hoops who secured a 4-1 victory against the Saints and a step closer towards the end of a historic campaign.
Below are the Celtic players rated from the game.
Craig Gordon: 6
The Hoops’ custodian conceded one early into the second half following a chaotic scene in the 6-yard box. He was largely untested otherwise.
Anthony Ralston: 7
The teenager had an impressive outing as he made some sensational forward runs and whipped in a few quality crosses for the attackers. Also showed defensive abilities by tracking back when required.
Jozo Simunovic: 7
Was in the right place at the right time on most occasions. Pulled off a few crucial blocks and interceptions.
Dedryck Boyata: 7.5
Showed his physical and aerial ability in both ends and netted from Leigh Griffiths’ corner to restore the lead.
Kieran Tierney: 7.5
Another impressive outing for the left fullback who linked up well with Johnston and later Sinclair down the left-hand flank. Made some decent forward runs, whipped in a few crosses, also impressed with his shooting ability.
Nir Bitton: 7
The Israeli international did well to screen the back four and controlled the game from the middle of the park. Helped his side to gain and hold possession, impressed with his box to box runs.
Stuart Armstrong: 7
Played in a slightly deeper role. Linked up well with fellow attackers and switched the game in both flanks to use the width of the pitch.
Patrick Roberts: 9
Another exceptional performance from the Manchester City loanee who netted a brace and kept the Saints backline on their toes with his directness, dribbling skills and pace. He earned a lead for his side early into the second half with a left-footed curler from the edge of the box. Scored the third for his side from close-range after picking up a cross from Scott Sinclair. Was replaced by James Forrest in closing minutes.
Tom Rogic: 7
Kept on making ambitious long range efforts from the very beginning of the game and forced St. Johnstone custodian Zander Clark to make saves. Was taken off in the second half to be replaced by Callum McGregor.
Michael Johnston: 6
The youngster did well with a few tricky runs and smart link-up movements, however, he struggled to get into the game since half-time and was taken off to be replaced by Scott Sinclair.
Leigh Griffiths: 7
Forced St. Johnstone custodian Zander Clark to make stops. Impressed with his set-piece skills as his perfectly taken corner was headed home by Dedryck Boyata to restore the lead.
Substitutes
Scott Sinclair: 7
Came in place of Johnston. Made some tricky runs down the left and assisted Roberts to net his second of the afternoon.
Callum McGregor: 7
Scored seconds after entering the pitch as he glided through the Saints defence and slotted past Clark.
James Forrest: NA
Played too little to warrant a rating.
