SPFL: Hoops top Table as They Thrash Old Firm Rivals

A Reo Hatate inspired first half performance proved to be the difference as Celtic ended league rival’s Rangers recent derby success as the hosts cruised to a 3-0 win. The win places the Hoops at the summit of the Scottish Premiership, one point ahead of the Gers.

Ange Postecoglou’s side came out firing as they found themselves 1-0 up within the first five minutes of the game. Reo Hatate picked up the ball outside the 18-yard box, volleying it past goalkeeper Allan Mcgregor into the bottom corner.

Fan favourite Hatate made it two, 15 minutes later as he curled a shot superbly into the goal, much to the delight of the packed Celtic Park.

Giovanni Van Bronckhorst’s side seemed a little deflated with the team not having any away fans in attendance. They never had an answer for Celtic’s relentless attacks and slick ball movement.

The Japanese midfield maestro Hatate found himself yet again with loads of space out on the left-hand side as he excellently crossed the ball into an arriving Liel Abada, with the young Israeli winger finishing the move off. This goal rounded off an outstanding first 45 minutes from the Hoops as they went into the break 3-0 up.

Celtic left themselves with an easy task in the second half with their 3-0 cushion. The visitors couldn’t manage to break down Celtic’s defence for the entirety of the 90 minutes. Scott Arfield had a chance to claw one back but put his shot over the bar, and second half substitution Ryan Kent’s long-range effort bounced off the crossbar as Rangers attempted to get themselves back in the game.

This was recently appointed, Giovanni Van Bronckhorst’s first loss as Rangers manager, with the tie possibly ending up being pivotal in the race for the title.

The win puts Celtic a point clear at the top of the table and ends their two year tenure without a win over their city rivals.