Celtic eased through to the Europa League playoff round after a 7-2 aggregate win over the Czech outfit Jablonec. Celtic won 3-0 on the night with goals from David Turnbull and James Forrest sending a full stadium home delighted.
This was the first time many of Celtic’s players had experienced the Celtic Park atmosphere.
Player Ratings;
Joe Hart – 7
Despite having a relatively quiet game, the new keeper pulled off two magnificent close-range saves in the second half – something Celtic fans have not seen since the departure of Fraser Forster.
Anthony Ralston – 7
Another solid game for the full-back. Ralston looked strong defensively but he also impressed in the attack. There were many times where he positioned himself well and was able to pick up second balls with ease. He also looked good in the air, winning at least five aerial duels.
Stephen Welsh – 7
The young defender played very well. Jablonec never caused Celtic too much bother. He fitted Ange’s philosophy, looking very comfortable playing out from the back.
Carl Starfelt – 8
Thursday nights performance was easily his best yet. He made some great challenges in and around his box, he too was very good with the ball at his feet.
Greg Taylor – 7
The Scotsman bagged himself an assist in Celtic’s first goal of the night, setting up David Turnbull.
Callum Mcgregor – 9
Another standout performance from the captain, nothing went through the middle of the park without Mcgregor’s influence. He also assisted David Turnbull.
Tom Rogic – 6
The Aussie earned another start in the team after a goal at the weekend. Rogic carried the ball well and showed his classy touches throughout the match.
David Turnbull – 10
Celtic’s number 14 is looking back to his usual self. For his first goal, he rolled the ball into the back of the net from a tight angle. To double his tally on the night, he took on a shot from outside the box which beat the keeper.
James Forrest – 7
Forrest scored Celtic’s third and final goal. The ball fell to him in the box and he slotted it into the back of the net. Although, at times James was frustrating. If a ball was played in front of him and he was contested for it he would slow down resulting in Celtic losing possession.
Kyogo – 7
Again, his movement was superb. in the opening minutes, he found himself one on one with the keeper but couldn’t capitalise on his chance after he attempted to dummy the keeper but to the fans frustration, the keeper was a step ahead. He then scored shortly after but the linesman had his flag raised.
Ryan Christie – 7
Christie was amazing again tonight. One thing I was impressed with was his willingness to track back, win the ball back then drive forward.
SUBS;
Edouard replaced Kyogo, apart from his shot that the keeper pushed into Forrest’s path which resulted in a goal, he didn’t do much.
Ajeti came on as well but did not influence the game
Adam Montgomery was subbed on too, after an amazing dribble he played the ball through but a mix up between Ajeti and Edouard saw the ball go out for a goal kick.
Soro made an appearance, he stayed back and had a few clearances. He also joined in some attacks.
Bitton was subbed on for Mcgregor and played his natural midfield role but it was too late for him to have an impact on the game.
Overall it was a great performance for the Hoops, despite Ralston, Taylor and Welsh playing well, we still need to improve these areas of the team.
