Celtic’s 11 point lead at the top of the table was kept intact as the Hoops overcame a rather stubborn Patrick Thistle side 4-1 at the Firhill Stadium.
For a large part of the first half Celtic were frustrated as Thistle managed to disrupt the Hoops’ fluid football. A perfect through ball from Leigh Griffiths to Stuart Armstrong was the ice-breaker as Celtic ran away with the game with another two goals in absolutely no time. A clever quick freekick from Leigh Griffiths allowed Stuart Armstrong to lash home before Griffiths himself got on the scoresheet with a beautiful curler.
Though Craig Gordon could go absolutely nothing to prevent Lindsay’s header and salvage his clean sheet, substitute Callum McGregor added a fourth from Izaguirre’s cross as Celtic eased through to another comfortable 3 points.
Craig Gordon – 6/10
Didn’t have much to save all game really. Dealt with the high balls well and was confident with the ball at his feet. No chance stopping Lindsay’s looping header.
Cristian Gamboa – 6.5/10
A summer signing from West Brom, Cristian Gamboa hasn’t had much game time since his switch to Scotland. Understandably looked rusty but slowly grew into the game. Made a vital interception in the lead up to Celtic’s third goal.
Mikael Lustig – 7/10
Slotted in as a centre-back rather than the right-back position that he had become accustomed to under Brendan Rodgers, it was another reliable performance from the big Swede. Although a poor header called for unnecessary pressure could’ve been avoided.
Erik Sviatchenko – 7/10
Never really troubled at the back, although a rare shot from Kris Doolan had to be dealt with. Effortless in carrying the ball into the midfield from the defence.
Emiliano Izaguirre – 7/10
Kept David Amoo in check all night on the left flank. Did not neglect his defensive duties when bombing forward. Got back well and made tackles to prevent deliveries into the box. Good cross to McGregor for Celtic’s fourth.
Scott Brown – 7/10
The skipper went about his work in the midfield, but was unable to dictate terms as he usually does due to Partick Thistle’s organization. Nevertheless, a fine showing for he kept things moving by taking up good positions throughout.
Stuart Armstrong – 8.5/10
Stuart Armstrong continues to excel in his newly found midfield position alongside skipper Scott Brown. Great run onto Griffith’s through ball to score the opener after a rather frustrating spell. A stunning second from distance following a clever quick free-kick from Griffiths again.
Patrick Roberts – 6/10
A not so memorable game for Patrick Roberts after the highs of Tuesday night. Kept fading in and out of the game. Had a tough time coping up against Callum Booth on the right flank.
Tom Rogic – 6/10
The only player in the opening 45 minutes who looked capable of creating chances and keeping the ball moving. Big worry when he picked up a knock and was subbed off for McGregor.
Gary Mackay-Steven – 5/10
First start since April and looked extremely rusty. Couldn’t get going at all and put Gordon under unnecessary pressure in the first half with a lazy back pass. Poor game.
Leigh Griffiths – 8/10
Was in desperate need for a game showing after Dembele’s rise as a striker and he didn’t disappoint at all. Perfect through-ball to Armstrong for the opener, before taking a clever quick free-kick to set up Armstrong’s second. Tested the opposition defence time and again with dangerous runs. A brilliant finish for his 10th goal of the season to wrap up the points for the Hoops.
Substitutes:
Ryan Christie – 5/10
Made a rare appearance replacing Gary Mackay-Steven with 40 minutes remaining but couldn’t really go on to make a telling impact on the match.
Callum McGregor – 6/10
McGregor replaced the injured Tom Rogic and had a decent outing. Passed the ball well and put the game to bed with a good finish for the fourth.
Moussa Dembele – Not available
Replaced Patrick Roberts with 15 minutes left on the clock. Had a decent chance from 12 yards out but his shot was well saved.
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