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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
Ewan Paton

Celtic players rated after pivotal derby win against Rangers

Celtic were nervy in the end as they battled to a 2-1 win over Rangers this afternoon.

A goal in either half by Paulo Bernardo and Kyogo was enough for Brendan Rodgers' men, as they extended their lead in the Premiership title race back to eight points. James Tavernier scored a late free-kick to make it a tasty ending. 

Here's how Rodgers' team faired on the day...

Joe Hart 8

Decent save down low from a Cantwell shot in the first half and an even better one from McCausland. Could do nothing to stop Tavernier’s stunning free-kick.

Alistair Johnston 7

Started out getting the better of Sima. First time Sima beat the Canadian though, the defender brought him down and received an early booking. Seemed to get away with one after a clear handball in the box, but Sima was offside. Crossing in final third poor.

Stephen Welsh 5

Unluckily for the defender his afternoon was ended early after picking up a shoulder injury.

Liam Scales 7

Let one long ball over the top unchallenged to allow McCausland the freedom to run on to. Aside from that moment, he was solid and good on the ball.

Greg Taylor 8

Caught out on a few occasions with McCausland getting in behind the left back. Looked dangerous and certainly contributed going forward. Steady and assured for the most part, his best game in a while.

Callum McGregor 8

Really ran the show in midfield. His markers in the Rangers team couldn’t get near him for the most part. Continually got on the ball. Booked.

Matt O’Riley 7

Suffered a bloody nose but battled on. Always shows composure and quality on the ball, even when playing from a deeper area of the pitch. Booked.

Paulo Bernardo 9

Should’ve had the hosts one up after 11 minutes. A terrific ball in from Palma, but the Portuguese’s glancing header didn’t have enough direction. Came close again with an effort from range, but hit side netting. Third time lucky? You bet. What a hit, son. Sweet as a nut. Perhaps lucky to escape a second booking.

Daizen Maeda 8

Enjoyed a decent game on the right wing. His running power and strength resulted in Balogun being sent off for the visitors with 20 minutes left on the clock. His pace meant that he would’ve been clean through on goal as Balogun hauled him to the deck.

Luis Palma 7

Had the beating of Tavernier in the opening stages and appeared to be enjoying the duel. Did a good job at pressing the Gers defence.

Kyogo 9

Absolutely brilliant. He’s been quieter this season without doubt, but you don’t stop them. Terrific feet to get away from Goldson, and wow, what a strike from outside of the box. Moment of quality proved to be the difference.

Subs:

Maik Nawrocki (for Welsh, 35’) 7

Came on unexpectedly but was good. Looked at ease and this is definitely something for the Polish centre-back to build on. Did give away foul for Rangers' goal. Booked.

David Turnbull (for Bernardo, 70‘) 4

Replaced the first goalscorer before he was potentially sent off Booked.

Oh (for Kyogo, 81’) 3

On to rough up the centre-backs. Booked.

Mikey Johnston (for Maeda, 81’) 3

On for fresh legs.

Liel Abada (for Palma, 81’) 3

Long-awaited return from injury.

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