Despite a shambolic European run, Celtic have restored their supremacy in domestic competitions. They defeated Rangers earlier this month in a crucial Premiership encounter and were close to doing so this afternoon when Greg Taylor earned them a lead midway through the second half. But the Light Blues scripted an incredible comeback when Scott Arfield’s stellar strike made it 1-1. The upbeat Gers dominated the extra time and an own goal from Carl Starfelt towards the end shattered the Celts’ treble dream at Hampden Park.
Below are the Celtic players rated in their 2-1 defeat against Rangers.
Joe Hart: 7
Could have done little to stop both the goals. Made some incredible saves otherwise, particularly a quick double save minutes before Starfelt’s ‘winner’.
Josip Juranovic: 6
Did not have the best of time against Ryan Kent. Mostly concentrated on his defensive game with little attacking impact down the right-hand flank. Made way for Anthony Ralston in the second half due to an injury concern.
Cameron Carter-Vickers: 7
A rock-solid defensive display from the USMNT international. Could have doubled Celtic’s lead, but he smashed the bar from six yards out. Looked worn out in the closing minutes, particularly against Kent’s liveliness and swift movements.
Carl Starfelt: 6.5
Maintained his composure in deep defence alongside Carter-Vickers right until the 114th minute when he failed to direct Calvin Bassey’s cross off target.
Greg Taylor: 7.5
A smart finish from the left-back earned Celtic a second-half lead. Was enjoying his time on the pitch before picking up an injury that forced him to leave the pitch at full time. Stephen Welsh replaced him in the defensive third.
Callum McGregor: 7.5
Used his intelligence and experience to set it up for Taylor from a quick free-kick. His vision and composure in the middle of the park helped the Bhoys dominate the midfield game by playing passes and recovering possession.
Tom Rogic: 6
Struggled to exhibit his dribbling and box-to-box movements against Rangers’ relentless pressing. Was taken off for Kyogo Furuhashi around the hour mark.
Reo Hatate: 6.5
Made his contribution during attacking transitions with his swift footwork and quick runs. Struggled physically against the likes of John Lundstram and Ryan Jack. Made way in the closing minutes for David Turnbull.
Liel Abada: 6
Had a bright start down the right-hand flank. But he faded off with time and was eventually taken off for Matt O’Riley around the hour mark.
Filipe Jota: 7
His tricks and cut insides on the left led to a few chances inside the box. The Gers did well at the back to restrict his movement and link-up play.
Daizen Maeda: 6.5
Started with sheer energy as he instigated Celtic’s press high up the pitch. Had an effort off target, and he ran out of ideas in the attacking third before making way for James Forrest before extra time.
Celtic Subs Vs Rangers
Kyogo Furuhashi: 6
Had a couple of late chances, but he failed to find the target. Was well-contained by the Light Blues’ defence.
Matt O’Riley: 5.5
An underwhelming display from the young midfielder who failed to find the correct pass even under little pressure.
Anthony Ralston: 6
Played initially down the right before shifting down the left when Taylor left the pitch with an injury.
Stephen Welsh: 5.5
Rare minutes for the defender who looked uncomfortable as a makeshift right fullback.
James Forrest: 6.5
Injected some variation in attack with his one-tows and crosses from the right-hand flank.
David Turnbull: 5
Was highly ineffective since coming on as an extra-time substitute.
