Celtic confirmed their eighth Premiership triumph on the row last week against Aberdeen and were eyeing a double delight this afternoon by defeating bitter rivals Rangers at Ibrox. The last time they lost a league game was back in December against the same opponent but regained supremacy by clinching a 2-1 win at Celtic Park back in March. However, the outcome this time proved to be a complete catastrophe for Neil Lennon’s men who failed miserably on the road and suffered a disastrous 2-0 defeat against the galvanised Gers.
Below are the Celtic players rated in their disappointing defeat against Rangers.
Scott Bain: 5.5
Should have done a lot better to deny James Tavernier’s early free-kick that boosted the Gers with a perfect start. However, he could have done little to deny Scott Arfield’s magnificent finish. Was busy throughout, and made a few stops to keep the scoreline at 2-0.
Mikael Lustig: 5
Struggled against the pace and power of Ryan Kent while operating down the right-hand side of Celtic’s ‘back three’. Was taken off at the break and got replaced by Jeremy Toljan.
Jozo Simunovic: 5
Looked nervy against the relentless Rangers attackers and fumbled at times under immense pressure. An afternoon to forget for the centre-back.
Kristoffer Ajer: 6
Tried to maintain the shape at the back and use his physique to keep hold of Defoe and Arfield in the defensive third. But a lack of experience saw him struggling against the duo who kept on opening up space inside the box.
Michael Johnston: 5
The youngster featured as a right wingback and remained on his toes all afternoon against Kent and his energetic moves. Was replaced by Scott Sinclar seconds after Arfield’s goal.
Scott Brown: 5
The skipper was jeered throughout by the home crowd as he failed miserably to control the midfield game and came up the second best against the majestic Glen Kamara and Ryan Jack.
Tom Rogic: 5.5
Offered little high up the pitch as he was never allowed enough space to have a free run and trouble the Gers with his passing and shooting attributes. Made way for Olivier Ntcham in the second half.
Callum McGregor: 6
Had some moments of excellence in the first half, however, lacked innovation with the final delivery. Tried to hold the game and slow down the tempo, but failed to retain possession under persistent pressure.
Jonny Hayes: 5.5
Struggled defensively against Arfield and offered nothing high up the pitch from the left-hand flank. An underwhelming afternoon of football from the ex-Aberdeen man.
Odsonne Edouard: 5
Created one chance towards the end which, however, ended in disappointment. Mostly remained isolated and failed to showcase his scoring traits this time around.
Oliver Burke: 4.5
Forced Wes Foderingham into making the only save of the afternoon towards the end. Was highly disappointing otherwise as he could not grab the opportunity to ensure his stay beyond this summer.
Substitutes
Jeremy Toljan: 5
Could not utilise his pace as he was mostly confined to defensive duties down the right flank.
Scott Sinclair: 5
Offered little since coming on as the Gers already sealed a win against their Old Firm rivals.
Olivier Ntcham: 5
Tried to calm things down in midfield to avoid further humiliation.
