Celtic left it late to snatch three points against Hearts as Odsonne Edouard scored the winner deep into injury time to give Neil Lennon a 2-1 win in his first match in charge.
Hearts are always tough opponents to go past especially at Tynecastle, and that is exactly what they showed in the first half hour of the game as the home side enjoyed some goalmouth action. Celtic hung in there, and they have to thank Scott Bain for it. The Hoops scored against the run of play in a textbook counter attack as James Forrest rolled the ball into an empty net. Lennon’s men settled in after they took the lead and got better as the game went on. The Jambos made life hard for themselves as Jamie Brandon left a little too much on Jeremy Toljan and was given marching orders.
However, in the second half, Ajer was sloppy as he lunged into a challenge and Hearts got a penalty which was converted by Bozanic. Celtic tried to press the issue, and they got their deserved goal in the end through Odsonne Edouard in the stoppage time.
Scott Bain 7
Made some crucial saves when his side were under the pump. His distribution was on point once again.
Dedryck Boyata 6
Had some nervy moments in possession. Did his defensive duties alright.
Kristoffer Ajer 5
Ikpeazu gave him a hard time as the Norwegian often failed to deal with his man on the physical front. Was sloppy in reading Bain’s ball and was caught flat-footed as he lunged into a challenge which allowed Hearts to win a penalty.
Jeremy Toljan 6.5
Looked energetic and worked hard down the right as he always provided an attacking outlet.
Kieran Tierney 6
Was caught out of position in the first half on a few occasions. Like most of his team-mates improved as the game went on.
Nir Bitton 6
Made some rash challenges early on. Was found wanting in possession as Hearts pressed high up the pitch. Had a better second half.
Scott Brown 8
Took one thunderous attempt on goal in the first half. Was a workhorse in midfield. Had the composure to pick a perfect ball in the end for the winner.
Ewen Henderson 6
Played in an attacking midfield role and the youngster’s movement was top notch. Worked hard and linked up play well.
Scott Sinclair 6.5
Played an important part in the first goal. Threatened often and could have got himself on the scoresheet if he was more clinical.
James Forrest 7
Put the ball into the empty net after some good work by Sinclair and Burke. Caused trouble down the right with his intensity and willingness to drive the ball forward.
Oliver Burke 7
His pace was often the difference in the final third. Unselfishly squared the ball to Forrest for the first goal.
Substitutes
Odsonne Edouard 7.5
Once again came off the bench and turned the game around. Made some smart runs and in the end, finished well when it mattered.
Mikael Lustig N/A
Didn’t play enough to warrant a rating.
Timothy Weah N/A
Didn’t play enough to warrant a rating.
