Celtic notched up another win under their belt when they defeated Kilmarnock FC 2-0 at the Rugby Park on Saturday afternoon.
James Forrest opened the scoring for the Champions with five minutes left for half-time, but the second goal took a long time coming, as Callum McGregor sealed the three points in the 88th minute to extend their unbeaten run in domestic competitions. The win means Brendan Rodgers’ side jump to the top of the table, setting the early pace in the new season, without really breaking much of a stride.
Here’s how the Celtic players fared on the day;
Craig Gordon – 6/10
Did not have to break a sweat at all, as his defence made sure there was no way through.
Anthony Ralston – 8/10
Impressed when he went on his forays down the right-flank. Strong at the back, apart from one slight blip. Very impressive from the youngster.
Kristoffer Ajer – 7.5/10
Another strong performance from the youngster who is making a name for himself very fast. Dealt with the crosses that came into the box.
Kieran Tierney – 7.5/10
Unperturbed in the centre of the defence as he dealt with everything that came his way easily. Displayed his top-notch range of distribution as well.
Calvin Miller – 8/10
Looked a threat each time he got forward. Very much set to follow in the footsteps of Kieran Tierney. Exciting talent!
Scott Brown – 7/10
Headed over from a corner in the first-half. Anchored the midfield really well and was a dominant force.
Stuart Armstrong – 7.5/10
Was under the spotlight, having signed a new two-year deal, but put in his best performance by far in the new campaign. Alert to counters, made forward runs and set-piece delivery too was good.
Tom Rogic – 8.5/10
Powerful run and a cut back for the opener. Was the creator for the second goal as well. A fine display from the Australian.
Callum McGregor – 7/10
Some very neat touches and delightful passes from the 23-year old. Put the game to bed late in the game, scoring the second goal.
Kundai Benyu – 7/10
Displayed what he can do, with glimpses of brilliance every now and then. Impressive work-rate as well, never shying away from his defensive duties.
James Forrest – 7/10
It was his 150th Premiership appearance and he marked it with a goal in the 40th minute. Led the line well for the Hoops.
Substitutes
Leigh Griffiths – 6/10
Replaced Forrest with 20 minutes left. Looked really sharp.
Nir Bitton – 5/10
Replaced Tierney at the heart of the defence. Not as convincing as the youngster. Injured late on.
Mikael Lustig – NA
Came on for Benyu as Rodgers looked to close out the game.
Here are some reactions from the fans on social media after another comfortable outing for Rodgers’ side;
Job done with a make-shift team after a huge European match. Can't ask for much more! ✊
— Kevin McGuire (@kevmcguiremusic) August 19, 2017
Rogic madnessssss
— Rory Flanagan (@Rory_Flanagan) August 19, 2017
https://twitter.com/Rossmcm1986/status/898898234331901954
Another great performance. Playing lovely football. What about the Youth in the team. Very impressed
— Brian Seagrave (@BrianSeagrave1) August 19, 2017
https://twitter.com/michell60910707/status/898901418437890049
S'Appin Bitton🍀@Tom_Rogic superb🇦🇺🍀
— CeltFromOz (@CassarHouse) August 19, 2017
https://twitter.com/LynnAnneFindla1/status/898897537838440450