Celtic have taken a significant step towards claiming the Scottish Premiership title this season following a 2-1 win over 10-man Rangers in the Old Firm derby at Celtic Park.
The flurry of goals unfolded within a mere five minutes, commencing with Matt O'Riley's opener in the 35th minute as his left-footed strike from the edge of the area found the back of the net.
Just three minutes later, Rangers' John Lundstram inadvertently doubled Celtic's lead by diverting a Daizen Maeda cross into his own net.
The visitors managed to narrow the deficit two minutes later when Cyriel Dessers nodded home from close range.
However, Rangers' woes were compounded before half-time as Lundstram received a red card for a reckless challenge on Alistair Johnston.
Although Jack Butland denied O'Riley from the penalty spot in the 55th minute, giving Rangers a lifeline, it wasn't sufficient to thwart Celtic's victory.
The result left Brendan Rodgers's side with a six-point lead over second-placed Rangers with only two games remaining, with the Hoops having a superior goal difference over their rivals.
2-1 | ||
Matt O’Riley 35' | John Lundstram 38' (o.g.) Cyriel Dessers 40' |
