League leaders Celtic travelled to Ibrox this afternoon for the season’s third Old Firm clash. Rangers were desperate for a victory to draw things level at the top of the standings and an early goal from Aaron Ramsey handed them a perfect start in their own backyard. But the jubilation did not last long as Tom Rogic fired in an equalizer minutes later. Cameron Carter-Vickers found the net late moments before the break and the Gers could not script a comeback despite an upbeat second-half display.
Below are the Celtic players rated in their 2-1 win against Rangers.
Joe Hart: 7
Could not stop Aaron Ramsey’s one-touch finish early into the game, but the Englishman was decent otherwise with his outing and distribution. Made a massive save late in the match to deny Fashion Sakala.
Josip Juranovic: 7
Had a nervy start at the back as he was beaten by Ryan Kent down the left before Ramsey’s opener. Settled in slowly and whipped in some astounding crosses that led to attacking opportunities.
Cameron Carter-Vickers: 9
Was spot on with his tackles, blocks and interceptions. Refrained Kemar Roofe from causing menace; also earned the Hoops a 2-1 lead with a stunning finish minutes before the break. Was rock solid in the heart of the backline against the Light Blues’ crosses and cut insides.
Carl Starfelt: 8
Lost some duels and committed fouls, but he was in the right place at the right time to make recoveries and no-nonsense clearances, particularly during the second half when the hosts were chasing for an equalizer.
Greg Taylor: 7.5
Showed great concentration and commitment against Joe Aribo and James Tavernier, who linked up down the right to threaten the Bhoys. His perfectly timed tackle minutes after the break denied Ryan Kent a shooting opportunity inside the box. Made way for Anthony Ralston midway through the second half after a potential injury woe.
Callum McGregor: 8
Apart from pulling the strings from the deep-lying midfield role, the veteran Scotsman was instrumental in their early equalizer. His lung-busting run created the chance, which was eventually slotted home by Rogic to make it 1-1.
Reo Hatate: 6.5
Played his part in Rogic’s equalizer. His effort was saved by Allan McGregor, but the ball fell favourably into Rogic’s path who made no mistake to find the target. Looked a bit off-paced and out of depth in the second half and was eventually replaced by Nir Bitton in the centre of the pitch.
Tom Rogic: 8.5
A majestic display from the Aussie wizard as he not only found the net but also exhibited his vision and creativity from the middle of the park. His work rate was immense, along with the box-to-box movements and dribbles. Made way for Matt O’Riley around the hour mark.
Filipe Jota: 7.5
Lively down the right-hand flank with his swift one-twos, crosses and link-up play. His freekick was converted by Carter-Vickers to earn all three points. Made way for Liel Abada late in the game.
Daizen Maeda: 7.5
Featured from the left-hand flank and despite little opportunities in the attacking third, the Japanese international worked hard to chase the ball and press the opponents all throughout the contest.
Giorgos Giakoumakis: 7
Giakoumakis, too, did not have enough goal-scoring situations. However, he contributed by holding the ball under pressure and making crucial clearances at the other end of the pitch.
Celtic Substitutes Vs Rangers
Nir Bitton: 7
Terrific since coming on as he used his experience to break the Gers’ moves and carry the ball forward.
Matt O’Riley: 6
Looked sharp with his passing game but was forced to leave the pitch with an injury. David Turnbull replaced him for the final quarter of the game.
Anthony Ralston: 6.5
Did well defensively to defend the narrow lead under immense pressure.
Liel Abada: 6
Had a couple of massive chances since coming on in place of Jota. He hit the first one wide, but the other effort was parried away by McGregor to keep Rangers in the tie.
David Turnbull: 6
Looked calm and composed during the final moments of the match.
