Reigning Premiership champions Celtic dropped further points in their European adventure tonight after falling to a 2-2 draw against Ligue 1 heavyweights Lille. Although Neil Lennon will be frustrated that they couldn’t take home the three points, it must be conceded that prior to kick-off, most Celtic fans would’ve been happy with a draw. The frustration will stem from the fact that they went into half-time with a two-goal advantage, but were unable to see out the second period satisfactorily enough. Despite having a flurry of chances, they couldn’t find a winner, while they were even rescued in the first half by Scott Bain, when the stand-in keeper saved a Lille penalty.
Here Are The Celtic Player Ratings Vs Lille:
Celtic Player Ratings Vs Lille
Scott Bain – 9
The keeper started the season as the second choice behind Vasilis Barkas, but it’s unlikely that he’ll be dropped following that display. Made some key saves before stopping a Lille penalty as well.
Jeremie Frimpong – 7.5
The speedster put in a good shift down the flank tonight as he ran up and down tirelessly all through the ninety. Did take some poor touches in attack but delivered a brilliant cross for the Hoops’ second.
Shane Duffy – 6
The big Irishman was caught napping on various instances again, as his lack of pace is gradually becoming a cause for concern. Made some good clearances but gave away the first-half penalty.
Kristoffer Ajer – 6.5
The Norwegian was solid in defence for the most part but probably should’ve dealt with the aerial crosses a lot better. Unfortunately had to be substituted because of an injury in the second half.
Diego Laxalt – 8
The AC Milan loanee built on his excellent performance against his former club, with yet another sparkling display down the left flank. Played some good crosses into the area and bombarded forward too.
Callum McGregor – 7.5
The midfielder linked up the play rather efficiently but was guilty of giving the ball away on a number of occasions. Looked composed whenever he had the ball at his feet and was sharp too.
Scott Brown – 6
The skipper played far too many sideways passes today and could have been caught out of position a few times. Despite his recent struggles, Brown worked his socks off while tracking back.
Ryan Christie – 7
The attacker was deployed in the wide position tonight, but he didn’t make too many attacking contributions. Didn’t look overly comfortable running down the flank and should be moved centrally soon.
Olivier Ntcham – 6
The Frenchman put in a rather typical performance in the core of the side. Was neat with his passing for large chunks, but quickly needs to work on adding more end product to his game.
Mohamed Elyounoussi – 9
The Norwegian trickster caused the Lille defence all kinds of problems with his direct approach to the game. Came up with two clean finishes, wherein his first effort was the best goal of the match.
Albian Ajeti – 7
The Swiss striker tried to get involved in the play early on but wasn’t able to offer too much. Was called offside when he had the ball in the net, before blazing over from what was a rather simple chance.
Substitutes
Nir Bitton – 6.5
The Israel international’s return to the first-team picture will come as a blessing to Neil Lennon’s ambitions. Made some key blocks and looked confident.
Odsonne Edouard – 5.5
Finally returned to the side after an extended spell out on the sidelines. Needs to produce sharper displays if he hopes to return to the eleven.
Ismaila Soro – NA
Didn’t have time to make an impact.
Stephen Welsh – 6
Didn’t have time to make an impact.
Tom Rogic – 6
Didn’t have time to make an impact.
