Celtic travelled to Fir Park to take on Motherwell on the back of fine form which saw them win seven of their last eight games. The Hoops were heading towards the top of the table tonight before a late strike from Danny Johnson dashed Celtic’s hopes.
As expected, the Bhoys dominated the proceedings and opened the scoring through Ryan Christie who has been in tremendous form recently. The midfielder finished brilliantly after Kieran Tierney found him in free space. Things could have gone worse for the home side, but Mark Gillespie saved a penalty from Leigh Griffiths and kept his team in the game by holding the deficit to just one at halftime.
The Hoops failed to put the tie to bed after creating numerous chances. They lacked the energy or desire to secure the game and were punished in late when Danny Johnson equalised from a brilliant left-footed shot which left the away team stunned.
Here is how the Bhoys fared from today’s match.
Craig Gordon 5
Was a spectator for the most parts of the game. Maybe could have done better with the Danny Johnson goal but that would be too harsh on the Scottish international.
Cristian Gamboa 4
One of the worst players on the pitch and as he was ineffective while going forward. One can understand why Rodgers often goes in with Mikael Lustig at the right back position.
Jozo Simunovic 6.5
Controlled the game well for the most parts. Recycled the ball well.
Filip Benkovic 6.5
Looked composed on the ball but Motherwell’s forward were physical, and that created a bit of trouble for the defender
Kieran Tierney 8
Most of the attacks came from his side of the pitch as he was a constant menace while going forward. Assisted the goal when he found Christie in space.
Scott Brown 6
Started for the first time since his injury and controlled the game well from the middle of the park. Maybe played too many safe passes but had an alright game on the night.
Olivier Ntcham 6
Made some good runs in the box and that troubled the Motherwell defence. Played a part in winning the penalty. Often guilty of not making the right decision in the final third.
Jonny Hayes 5
Got a rare start but looked out of his depth. Couldn’t conjure up much in the attacking third of the pitch. Rodgers would undoubtedly be questioned for ringing in too many changes.
Ryan Christie 8
He can do nothing wrong at the moment as he finished with aplomb to open the scoring. Won a penalty when he used his body well but Griffiths was unable to convert. Lacked a bit of energy in the second half.
Callum McGregor 6
Played in a more restrictive role for most parts. Spurned an excellent chance to score.
Leigh Griffiths 4
Missed a penalty which is definitely going to haunt him. Tried to make some runs but wasn’t effective. A forgetful night for the forward.
Substitutes
Scott Sinclair 5
Got in some good positions but couldn’t create any tangible impact on the game.
Tom Rogic N/A
Played too little to warrant a rating
Odsonne Edouard N/A
Wasn’t involved much.
