Celtic have taken another huge three points in the Scottish Premiership title race.
Faced with the notoriously difficult task of overcoming Hibs at Easter Road, they have kept up the pace with a hard-fought victory.
The hosts were reduced to ten men in the early stages, but after that, the task remained a difficult one. Celtic struggled to break them down.
Daizen Maeda opened the scoring, before Joe Newell equalised in controversial circumstances. Step up, Kelechi Iheanacho…
Who was your Celtic MOTM vs Hibs??
Celtic player ratings vs Hibs
Viljami Sinisalo – 4/10
At times as a Celtic goalkeeper, you aren’t judged for much. Sinisalo was not massively involved today, but his costly sloppiness led to Newell’s equaliser.
It’s not the first time that his lack of experience has shown in his recent run of starts.
Alistair Johnston – 8/10
In his first Scottish Premiership start since September, Johnston showed Celtic exactly what they’ve been missing.
Forward runs off the ball, and initiative on it. His one-two and cross which led to Daizen Maeda’s opener was a flash of attacking quality that has been desperately lacking for much of the season.
Auston Trusty – 5/10
Hibs’ lack of attacking presence ensured a fairly comfortable for Trusty, but his role in the mix-up with Sinisalo for their equaliser can’t be ignored.
He didn’t exactly inspire in possession, either.
READ MORE: Martin O’Neill explains Sebastian Tounekti call for Celtic vs Hibs
Liam Scales – 5/10
Much similar to his defensive partner, Scales didn’t have a massive amount of defending to do — but his role in the equaliser is even more open to criticism.
A woefully timed and placed pass was well behind Kieran Tierney, allowing Hibs one of their only attacks in the first half… from which they scored.
Kieran Tierney – 7/10
Tierney continues to struggle to link up with Sebastian Tounekti on the left flank, but much like Johnston, injected urgency when he could.
Callum McGregor – 6/10
As he continues to play through injury, McGregor continues to play a background role in the team. Kept things ticking without grabbing headlines.
Arne Engels – 5/10
Not a lot came off for the Belgian today. At times, it felt like it wasn’t the right kind of game for him.
When Johnston was substituted, we were treated to the rare sight of Engels at right-back. He was withdrawn soon after.
How about that, Celtic fans? Three massive points
Kelechi Iheanacho yet again!
Benjamin Nygren – 7/10
Nygren isn’t as involved in the game as most attacking midfielders, but Celtic could do with passing the ball to him more.
He offers more than just goals. A lovely touch with Johnston for the opening goal.
Hyunjun Yang – 6/10
Not Yang’s day. In fact, he was barely involved.
Daizen Maeda – 7/10
Maeda’s levels have risen significantly for the season’s run-in, making him one of the team’s biggest assets.
Not only did he score the crucial opening goal with a sharp bit of movement, but he was a nuisance for Hibs throughout.
Sebastian Tounekti – 6/10
Tounekti’s performance summed up his season: hot and cold.
At times, the service was there, and his dribbling could put Hibs on the back foot. Others, however, it was lacking. His consistency continues to frustrate.
Celtic substitute ratings vs Hibs
Kelechi Iheanacho – 8/10
Every time, you’re surprised to see him on the bench. Every time, you’re not surprised to see him score as a substitute.
The Nigerian is firm fan favourite at this point, and one of the main characters of this run-in.
Luke McCowan – 7/10
Anthony Ralston – 6/10
James Forrest – 6/10
Receive a digest of our best Celtic content each week direct to your mailbox
