Celtic have already conquered the League Cup crown this season defeating Rangers. They are now determined to defend the Scottish Cup glory and Neil Lennon, the Hoops boss, opted to field a strong starting XI this evening against Partick Thistle at Firhill Stadium. Although the hosts had their moments, the Champions maintained sheer composure and grabbed a routine 2-0 win to make it to the last 16 of the competition.
Below are the Celtic players rated in their commanding win against the Jags.
Fraser Forster: 6.5
Fortunate not to concede when veteran Kenny Miller hit the woodwork from inside the six-yard box late in the first half. Failed to grab a clean-sheet though when Stuart Bannigan reduced the deficit from the spot.
Jeremie Frimpong: 7
Lively with his energetic runs, cut insides and crosses from the right-hand flank. Should have been rewarded a spot-kick when he was pushed inside the box by James Penrice. Conceded a penalty in the closing seconds of the game which was converted by Bannigan as a late consolation.
Christopher Jullien: 8
The Frenchman was solid in defence and maintained superiority over Zak Rudden as well as Miller. Looked menacing from set-pieces at the other end of the pitch and forced Scott Fox into making a decent save minutes after the break.
Nir Bitton: NA
Started alongside Jullien but was forced to leave the pitch in the early minutes due to an injury. Jozo Simunovic returned to action replacing the versatile Israeli professional.
Greg Taylor: 6.5
Was handed a rare start. Tried to settle down the left-hand side of the Bhoys’ backline and balanced his game between attack and defence to leave an impression.
Scott Brown: 7
Looked off-paced at times, but the skipper used his experience to break down the opponents’ move while featuring at the base of a midfield diamond.
Callum McGregor: 8
Operated box to box, carried the ball out from the deep to operate in the advanced areas and doubled the lead with an effort from outside the box which deflected into the back of the net. His goal turned out to be the difference between these two outfits.
Olivier Ntcham: 6.5
Did well to retain possession, played one-twos, made runs down the middle and created space for the attackers. Could have been more productive high up the pitch.
Tom Rogic: 7.5
The Aussie wizard had an impressive outing with his tricky runs, swift footwork and the ability to create goal-bound opportunities by his own. Made way for Daniel Arzani in the closing minutes of the match.
Leigh Griffiths: 8.5
Must be a relieved man as the Hoops hero not only slotted home calmly to break the deadlock early in the game but also kept on combining upfront with Edouard to trouble the Jags’ defensive line. Received massive applauds from the travelling fans while making way for new signing Patryk Klimala.
Odsonne Edouard: 7
The in-form French hotshot came close to finding the net but saw his effort denied by Fox spectacularly which eventually came off the bar moments before McGregor’s goal.
Celtic Substitutes
Jozo Simunovic: 7
Returned to action following a long injury layoff and enjoyed his time on the pitch while partnering Jullien.
Patryk Klimala: NA
Played too little to warrant a rating.
Daniel Arzani: NA
Played too little to warrant a rating.
