Celtic vs Aberdeen is one of the big ticket fixtures of the Scottish Premiership and the clash between the two is often highly anticipated. Both teams squared up at Celtic Park but negated each other entirely as Celtic maintained their 8 point lead at the top of the table by securing a 0-0 draw.
The first half lacked quality even though Celtic enjoyed plenty of possession. Kristoffer Ajer had the ball in the net, but the goal was ruled out due to offside. Apart from that moment, the first 45 didn’t have much action as both teams lacked quality.
Neil Lennon made some early changes, but it was the Dons who started the second half well. Aberdeen had Celtic pinned as they created chances after chances and Scott Bain was called into action after being a spectator in the first half. Edouard made the Aberdeen goalkeeper stretch for some good saves but the Hoops were far too sloppy to deserve a win on the day.
Here is how Lennon’s men fared.
Scott Bain 7
Kept his team in the game in the second half by making some crucial saves. Looked calm with the ball at his feet.
Dedryck Boyata 8
Solid in the air and stood like a wall in the second half on various occasions.
Kristoffer Ajer 8
Like his partner, read the situations well and often helped the team by putting in some crucial blocks and interceptions.
Jeremy Toljan 5
His touch was way off, and defensively he was found wanting on numerous occasions. Lucky that he wasn’t punished and maybe it’s time to bring back Lustig.
Kieran Tierney 7
Created some good moments from the left but it wasn’t enough. Did an excellent job defensively as well.
Scott Brown 6.5
Can’t really fault him for much as he did his job. Moved the ball forward and helped his team defensively.
Nir Bitton 5
Extremely sloppy in possession and was guilty of giving the ball away way too cheaply. The Hoops are definitely missing Callum McGregor.
Ewan Henderson 6
Played the first half but couldn’t do much in the attacking third. His movement was good as he occupied some decent positions.
James Forrest 5.5
Looked listless at times in the final third as he often tried to do too much on his own. Needed to pick his head up and find his team-mates.
Scott Sinclair 5.5
Was invisible in the first half and as a result, was substituted early on.
Oliver Burke 6.5
Tried to make things happen and his movement was sharp. However, he never really got any clear cut opportunity to score.
Substitutes
Odsonne Edouard 6.5
Looked threatening after coming on as he drove the ball forward through the middle with intent.
Michael Johnston 6.5
His pace was impressive and often found himself in good positions in the attacking third.
Timothy Weah N/A
Didn’t play much to warrant a rating.
