Celtic v Rangers: Last time out as Kyogo strike wins the Glasgow Derby

Celtic face Rangers this afternoon in the Cinch Premiership as Brendan Rodgers’ team go toe-to-toe with Philippe Clement’s side in the second Glasgow Derby of the season. When the teams met in September, a strike from Kyogo settled the affair with an excellent finish on the stroke of half time.

In a game that had been weighted massively towards the hosts in the media and by bet makers, Brendan Rodgers put down a marker as Kyogo’s strike separated the sides. Eyebrows were raised when David Turnbull and Liam Scales were given the nod by the Irishman; however, his compatriot was solid and assured in defence as he helped keep a clean sheet.

Celtic had to defend but they had their chances to win the game by more. Liel Abada was denied by a superb Jack Butland save whilst Kyogo had two good opportunities in the first half prior to his goal. The goal itself was excellent. The Japanese striker latched onto a header from Matt O’Riley and volleyed the ball beyond Butland and into the net. It was a terrific strike and the visitors were good value.

Rangers fans were aggrieved that their goal was ruled out as Cyriel Dessers fouled Gustaf Lagerbielke. In real time, it looked as if the Swede dwelled on the ball for too long but replays showed that it was indeed a foul. VAR Alan Muir instructed Don Robertson to review it at the pitch side monitor and he concurred with the decision. The boos at full-time were not directed towards the officials, they were directed to the Rangers team and management.

There will be no boos from Rangers fans this afternoon as there will be none in the away section at Paradise. Hopefully, it will just be celebrations from the Celtic supporters when the full-time whistle is sounded by Nick Walsh.