Reo Hatate produces sparkling Celtic display as champions storm 7 points clear at Premiership summit - 3 talking points

Luis Palma cracked his first home goal as Celtic surged seven points clear at the summit of the Premiership.

The Honduran added to his strike at Motherwell the previous week with a sparkling finish to display his lethal edge. Brendan Rodgers’ team were already in front at that stage after a terrific opener from the impressive Reo Hatate.

Palma added to the lead before the half-time interval to put the champions in total control of the contest. However, despite coming close to extending their advantage at various stages after the restart, Celtic were caught when Killie gave themselves a lifeline after David Watson struck 18 minutes from time.

But Rodgers’ side stayed calm and sealed the deal when Greg Taylor tapped home his first goal of the season eight minutes from the conclusion. Killie could have no complaints. The Rugby Park side gave everything and worked tirelessly, but were outgunned and punished heavily for mistakes.

Celtic could have bagged more than three but for visiting keeper Will Dennis, but it was job done with their title lead extended. The outcome was never in much doubt. Kyogo was flagged for offside having found the net and Dennis saved a Liam Scales header inside the opening 10 minutes.

Danny Armstrong curled wide for Killie, but the hosts had control and Hatate grabbed a brilliant opener. The Japanese’s lightning feet left Watson for dead and he drove at the heart of the away backline before shooting low beyond Dennis.

Palma made it two after a horrendous defensive error in his own half by Joe Wright presented the hosts with possession. After a through pass was blocked, the Honduran curled a fabulous effort into the corner of the net.

Hatate was waiting to shoot from spot on the hour after referee