Celtic have dropped 19 points behind rivals Rangers in the title race as the dream of ten-in-a-row looks like it’s already gone two days into the new year.
Callum McGregor’s own goal was enough to separate the sides but the result did not tell the full story. The visitors were dominant in the first half and still appeared in control of proceedings when the game turned on Nir Bitton’s red card. The Israeli was too easily turned by Alfredo Morelos and compounded his error by hauling down the Colombian, who would have been charging in on goal otherwise.
Despite the defeat, due to the performance there are a few players on the losing side who’ve ranked highly here.
Player ratings scale - 10: One of best performances you've seen. 9: Outstanding. 8: Very good. 7: Good. 6: Average. 5: Poor, 4: Very poor. 3: Terrible day at office. 2: Abysmal. 1: One of worst performances you've seen.
5. DL - Diego Laxalt - 8
Similar to Frimpong: defended extremely well to limit Rangers' threat from wide areas, got forward often but another who could maybe have put in better deliveries. Photo: Craig Williamson - SNS Group
6. DM - Ismaila Soro - 6
The right selection ahead of Scott Brown as his energy was an asset to the midfield. He did, however, concede too many soft fouls. Photo: Ross Parker - SNS Group
7. MRC - Ryan Christie - 7
Excellent first half where his energy off the ball helped close off Rangers' attacking routes, while he was able to consistently drive play forward. A quieter second half and his shot selection was poor. Photo: Craig Williamson - SNS Group
8. MLC - Callum McGregor - 7
Similar to Christie with respect to his first half industry, which he couldn't quite replicate after the break. Unlucky to inadvertently score the only goal of the game past his own keeper. Photo: Craig Foy - SNS Group