Celtic on verge of ANOTHER title as Brendan Rodgers extinguishes Rangers title dream – 5 talking points

Matt O'Riley struck a stunner and survived a penalty miss as Celtic moved to the brink of the title.

The Danish star’s blistering opener set the champions on their way to a massive success which has planted one hand firmly on the Premiership trophy. John Lundstram endured a story of horror for Rangers which began moments after O’Riley’s strike when he turned Daizen Maeda’s low cross into his own net as the hosts moved clear before the interval.

Cyriel Dessers instantly reduced the deficit for Philippe Clement’s header with a close-range header, but Lundstram’s wild tackle on Alistair Johnston, which was upgraded from yellow to red by ref Willie Collum left the visitors in huge trouble. O’Riley had a chance to kill it off early in the second period with a penalty kick. Yet, although his effort was saved by the outstanding Jack Butland, Celtic were able to keep their composure and lead to extend further away at the summit.

Brendan Rodgers was again the Old Firm winner. It is now 13 successes in 17 matches against Rangers over two spells. With a six-point lead and two games to go, as well as a goal difference advantage of seven, the trophy looks booked again for Parkhead.

For Clement, it’s zero win from three derby clashes. And, despite having mounted a vaillant challenge since his arrival to replace Michael Beale, it’s into miracle territory for the Belgian and the Light Blues in title terms.

Celtic were deserved victors. They had the better of the game and made the most chances. Rangers fought having been reduced to 10 men for a second-straight match at the venue, but didn’t do enough. The hosts went flying at it and almost scored inside the opening minute when James Forrest ripped to the byeline and crossed and Butland’s