73 per cent possession, 18 shots and 11 on target. That is what the stats read for Celtic after their game against Livingston ended. However, the most essential piece of statistics was that the Hoops were held to a goalless draw in the end at Celtic Park.
Neil Lennon probably went in with his strongest lineup especially in the attacking front as James Forrest, Ryan Christie, Odsonne Edouard, Tom Rogic and Callum McGregor started together. However, Livi dug deep into their reserves and managed to hold on to a draw.
The best chance fell right at the very end to Oliver Burke who missed an open goal from a few yards out. Rangers play tomorrow, and they have the opportunity to cut down Celtic’s lead on the top of the table to 11 points.
Scott Bain 6
Only had one stop to make throughout the game but it was a good attempt from Menga which Bain kept out. His distribution was alright.
Jozo Simunovic 6
Surprisingly played as a right back. Didn’t look comfortable while going forward but did his job defensively.
Filip Benkovic 7
Was dominant aerially and smothered everything before it could develop. An assertive and confident display from the Croatian.
Kristoffer Ajer 6.5
Recycled the ball well from the back and looked solid in defence.
Kieran Tierney 6
Delivered some good crosses but lacked the cutting edge to open up the opposition defence. Spent most of the game in the opposition half.
Scott Brown 6.5
Did everything that was asked from him. Switched up play well and kept the ball moving.
Callum McGregor 6.5
Did a decent job overall as he played down the left flank instead of a central position.
Tom Rogic 5.5
Lennon probably rushed him back into the starting eleven a bit early. The Australian wasn’t at his usual best but given Celtic’s lead at the top, Lennon probably wanted the Australian to have some minutes under his belt. Started well but struggled as the game went on.
Ryan Christie 6.5
Worked his socks off. His movement in the attacking third was impressive, but it wasn’t enough to find the breakthrough in the end.
James Forrest 7
Put in one of his best performances in recent times as he ran riot. His pace was too hard for the opposition defenders to handle as he put in some impressive crosses. However, there were often no takers inside the box. Guilty of missing some half chances himself.
Odsonne Edouard 5.5
Could have got himself on the scoresheet in the first half. Tried hard but it wasn’t his day.
Substitutes
Jonny Hayes 5
Provided fresh legs after coming on.
Timothy Weah 5
Brought energy on the pitch after he came on.
Oliver Burke 4
Should have converted his chance from 6 yards out in the end.
