Celtic had to clinch a win this afternoon against Dundee United to be within four points of Rangers. The Gers defeated Dundee 3-0 on Saturday evening and the Hoops responded with an identical scoreline as they knocked down the Tangerines at Tannadice Park, thanks to Tom Rogic, David Turnbull and Liam Scales’ goals in a commanding display.
Below are the Celtic players rated in their comprehensive victory against Dundee United.
Joe Hart: 7
Had a nervy start when a miscue from the custodian presented the hosts an early opportunity. Was largely untested otherwise but made a couple of decent saves in the second half to retain a clean sheet.
Josip Juranovic: 7.5
Started in his preferred right-back role in place of injured Anthony Ralston. Balanced his game throughout the field, whipped in a few crosses, also linked up well high up the pitch with cut insides and one-twos.
Cameron Carter-Vickers: 8
Missed the Hearts game due to a personal issue, but returned in deep defence this afternoon to partner Starfelt. Depicted his passing composure as he played it out from the back with sheer expertise. Set it up for Rogic who broke the deadlock with a stellar strike.
Carl Starfelt: 7.5
Made a number of recoveries and was spot on with his tackles as well as interceptions. Showed a great sense of positioning alongside Carter-Vickers in the heart of the backline.
Greg Taylor: 7.5
Returned from a long injury layoff but made an instant impression with his liveliness from the left-hand flank. Did well defensively to break down the opponents’ attacks, also created a few chances with his overlapping runs. Made way for Liam Scales late in the game.
Callum McGregor: 8.5
Operated from a central midfield role and orchestrated the show with his vision, technicality and distribution attributes. Assisted Turnbull who scored spectacularly to make it 2-0 late in the first half.
Tom Rogic: 8.5
The Aussie wizard showcased his exquisite dribbling traits while carrying the ball forward. Found the net with a curling effort from the right-hand corner of the box and received plaudits from the away end while making way for Nir Bitton midway through the second half.
David Turnbull: 9
Another impressive outing from the young Scotsman with his box-to-box movements, late runs and shooting skills. Found the net sensationally to double Celtic’s lead minutes before halftime.
James Forrest: 6
Whipped in a few crosses and made some dribbling attempts. Was taken off at the break for Liel Abada with a suspected injury problem.
Mikey Johnston: 7
Started in place of injured Filipe Jota from the left-hand flank. Tested Benjamin Siegrist in United goal but got dispossessed on a few occasions. Had a few successful dribbles and his pace, flair and smart runs caused problems in the hosts’ defensive line.
Kyogo Furuhashi: 7
A rare game where the Japanese failed to find the net. Denied by Siegrist time and again, but he worked really hard to make some attacking threats.
Celtic Subs Vs Dundee United
Liel Abada: 7.5
Was introduced in place of Forrest at the break. Came close to finding the net only to be denied by Siegrist. However, set it up for Liam Scales late in the contest.
Nir Bitton: 6.5
Made his 250th Celtic appearance when he replaced Rogic to inject freshness in midfield.
Liam Scales: 7.5
Scored his debut goal to make it 3-0 and cement all three points on the road.
