Rocco Vata scored his first senior goal for Celtic this afternoon in a 5-0 win over Buckie Thistle. The 18-year-old came off the bench with just over 25 minutes to go, and very much impressed.

Vata looked hungry, and full of desire in his cameo. His goal was a due reward and something that he has been long-awaiting since joining Celtic as a youngster.

Coming on for Kyogo Furuhashi, Vata had big boots to fill. This in no way fazed the teenager, though, who took things in his stride.

He was deployed by manager Brendan Rodgers through the middle up-top and was in the right place at the right time to tap home from Mikey Johnston’s fizzing cross.

It wasn’t the prettiest of goals, but it will live long in the memory of the Irishman. His teammates looked full of delight for him when the ball hit the back of the net. Rodgers was equally as happy for the B team’s top scorer post-match.

Indeed, the gaffer spoke to Viaplay and outlined what Vata’s plus points are: “He has potential, he needs a lot of work, but I think he has some really good attributes”, he said.

“He’s strong, he’s got decent pace, and he wants to score goals. It’s all about discipline for young players, doing the work, and having the right attitude.

“It’s nice for him to get that feeling of scoring and he’s been here since he’s been a kid so it’s a great moment for him and his family.”