Celtic showed the glimpses of their superiority against Kilmarnock and were upbeat ahead of hosting Motherwell this afternoon. It was a perfect start for the Hoops when Stephen Welsh headed home from David Turnbull’s corner, and a win was almost ensured by Odsonne Edouard with a stunning strike five minutes into the second half. Allan Campbell pulled one back though against the run, but the hosts maintained their composure for the final half an hour and secured all three points at Celtic Park.
Below are the Celtic players rated in their edgy 2-1 win against Motherwell.
Scott Bain: 5
Made some routine stops. Was error-prone though when the visitors pulled one back midway through the second half. Neil Lennon might have dropped Vasilis Barkas, but the crisis continues between the sticks for the defending champions.
Jonjoe Kenny: 7.5
The Everton loanee is set to have a run of games following Jeremie Frimpong’s winter exit. He had an impressive debut versus Killie and showed his expertise once more this afternoon with a balanced display from the right-back spot. Kept on whipping in crosses and attempting shots on target from a distance, while also performing his duties at the back with recoveries and timely tackles.
Stephen Welsh: 8.5
The youngster must have cemented his place in the heart of the backline not only for his early header but also for the discipline, concentration and determination exhibited to protect the lead, particularly during the final couple of quarters of the fixture.
Kristoffer Ajer: 7.5
The Norwegian, as always, was confident with the ball while playing it out from the back. Completed the most number of passes (stats via Fotmob) and tried to dribble past the Motherwell midfield in order to link up high up the pitch on his own.
Greg Taylor: 7.5
Created a few chances while surging forward from the left-hand side. His crosses were menacing, and the work rate was laudable until the 71st-minute mark when he made way for Diego Laxalt.
Scott Brown: 7
Has regained his place now deep down the midfield following a decent show against Killie. Did not offer much going forward but was combative as always in terms of breaking down opponents’ moves and attempts to staging counter-attacking threats. Was spot on with his tackles too and eventually made way for Ismaila Soro with 20 minutes remaining of the regulation time.
David Turnbull: 8.5
Made an impact early on as his corner was well converted by Welsh to earn the Bhoys a perfect start. Had a few attempts denied by Liam Kelly in the Well goal and was always causing problems with his swift turns and runs against his boyhood side. Made way for Mohamed Elyounoussi late in the game.
Tom Rogic: 7
Has not been the same as he used to be a couple of seasons ago yet delivered a much-improved display while operating from an advanced midfield role. Known for his long-range efforts, the Aussie international regained his confidence to some extent with some ambitious attempts from a distance throughout the contest.
Callum McGregor: 8
The versatile Scotsman played his part in Edouard’s goal, which eventually proved to be the difference between the two sides. Depicted his creative spark with persistent movements, one-twos and link-up football, while also covering a lot of ground to dominate the midfield game and possession.
Odsonne Edouard: 7.5
Back to his very best as he scored a stunning goal to make it 2-0 minutes after the break. Missed a couple of golden opportunities but the Frenchman proved to be decisive yet again with his prowess in the attacking third.
Albian Ajeti: 6
Secured a starting status following his midweek masterclass but was not much effective today before making way for Leigh Griffiths moments after Motherwell reduced the deficit.
Celtic Substitutes vs Motherwell
Leigh Griffiths: 5.5
Did not create enough chances upfront but used his experience well to hold the ball and distribute it around.
Ismaila Soro: 6.5
Kept things under control in the centre of the pitch. Retained the ball and slowed the tempo down to dominate the show completely.
Diego Laxalt: 6.5
Provided more defending cover than attacking threats in order to defend the one-goal lead during the closing minutes of the match.
Mohamed Elyounoussi: NA
Played too little to warrant a rating.
