Hibernian 0-0 Celtic: League leaders drop points for first time in 2022

Celtic dropped their first Scottish Premiership points of 2022 after being held to a goalless draw by a stubborn Hibernian — but still extended their lead at the summit.

Ange Postecoglou's side were denied an eighth consecutive league win as they spilled points for only the second time in 16 games.

Liel Abada and Josip Juranovic went close, and Matt O'Riley's free-kick and a close-range Abada shot were saved by Hibs goalkeeper Matt Macey in the best of the visitors' chances.

The point edges them four clear of defending champions Rangers, who host Motherwell later on Sunday (15:00 GMT).

Hibs defended stoutly, but had few clear openings. Their best opportunity was an enterprising run by Josh Doig which ended with his shot slipping wide, but the point is enough to nudge them back into fourth place.

It was definitely a less intense performance from Celtic, but their form since the winter break has given them the edge in the title race and Rangers still have plenty of work to do if they want to retain the championship.

Celtic brought back Callum McGregor, Reo Hatate, Abada and Jota among others following the midweek Europa Conference League exit at the hands of Bodo/Glimt and they started strongly.

Juranovic's cross almost created a chance for Tom Rogic, before a superb diagonal by Jota set Abada away on the right, only for his lob over Macey to drop wide.

The goalkeeper would be more tested as the half went on, though. First Juranovic's deflected free-kick was claimed at the second attempt by Macey, who later thwarted Daizen Maeda's attempt to round him and tipped over a Juranovic free-kick.

Hibs created precious little in the first half, with their main moment of note the loss of Kevin Nisbet. The striker was unable to recover