Celtic vs Rangers : Rangers defeated Celtic at Parkhead in the final nine-years, as Nikola Katic’s header won the title race.
Three goals and a missed penalty saw Steven Gerrard’s team close the gap at the top to just two points in an end-to-end match at Celtic Park.
They know they can win the winter break by winning their game, while Neil Lennon & co will have weeks to grieve for a humiliating loss.
From the beginning it was a slugfest with both sides pushing hard.
Rangers had probably the better opening exchanges, but Katic gave Celtic the chance to win the lead by blatantly pulling back Christopher Jullien from the box.
Ryan Christie took the goal, but Allan McGregor jumped low to his left to save it. The Rangers goalkeeper managed to get it all the way to the corner, which was quite a good height.
It was chaotic and Gerrard’s men won the fight just a few minutes later.
Borna Barisic displayed great intelligence by cutting the ball back for Ryan Kent, who took a precise shot off the post.
It was a thrilling affair, and Celtic quickly grabbed an equalizer – although in controversial fashion.
Callum McGregor’s shot at the box’s edge deflected off Odsonne Edouard, but replays revealed that the ball had struck his hand. It should have been disallowed under new rules, but it was not allowed by Kevin Clancy or his officials.
Morelos missed an opportunity in the first half, but his side quickly regained the lead.
Barisic provided again the service, swinging in a welcoming cross that Katic was only too happy for to meet. He rose above Ajer to deliver his compatriot’s delivery.
Bolingoli called McGregor into action, while Steven Davis and the goalkeeper prevented Jullien from crossing the line.
Morelos had the chance at the last moment to seal the deal, but his shot was blocked and he was issued a second diving booking.
From the beginning, it was evident that Celtic would not be as passive in this match as they were in their Betfred Cup final.
Lennon, along with James Forrest and Mikey Johnston, was clearly looking to exploit the space between the Rangers full backs. Ryan Christie and both of them looked to pressurize the visiting defense early on.
The Rangers weren’t going to be sitting back, and it was a bloody and thunderous affair from the very beginning.
We witnessed Rangers win the League Cup final, and we were used Rodgers’ Celtic dominating these matches. No one had any control.
