Celtic reclaimed the top of the Scottish Premiership table on goal difference following a hard-fought 2-0 win over Kilmarnock.
The match at Rugby Park wasn’t without its tense moments, as the home side made Brendan Rodgers’ side battle for all three points. Despite an assertive display from Kilmarnock, who had 18 shots and forced Kasper Schmeichel into six saves, Celtic found the breakthrough they needed.
The game’s first goal came with a slice of fortune as Callum McGregor’s cross to Adam Idah found the back of the net. Celtic’s captain opened the scoring, relieving pressure after a spell of resistance from the home side. Later, Nicolas Kuhn sealed the result with a brilliant solo effort.
However, Reo Hatate has created a talking point after the game.
The midfielder was shown a yellow card for a challenge on a Kilmarnock player that could have warranted a harsher punishment. The incident was reviewed by VAR, but officials ultimately decided that the tackle lacked the force required for a red card.
Pundit Chris Sutton weighed in on the incident, live on Sky Sports, stating, “Well, you see where he catches him, it’s halfway up the shin. He’ll count himself lucky there, Reo Hatate.”
Celtic fans will breathe a sigh of relief as their team came through a tough test unscathed, but the debate over Hatate’s challenge will likely linger. Meanwhile, Brendan Rodgers will be pleased with the three points.
