Celtic 2-1 Rangers: Celtic triumph in Old Firm derby to move to brink of title

Celtic edged closer to a third consecutive Scottish Premiership title with a 2-1 victory over 10-man Rangers in an eventful Old Firm derby on Saturday, taking a six-point lead at the top of the table.

With two games remaining, the hosts, who have 87 points, need one more point to lift the trophy.

"Take nothing for granted, keep our composure. We have a lot of work to do in the week," manager Brendan Rodgers said. "Get our plan ready and then next Saturday we can have a bit of fun."

Matt O'Riley put the hosts ahead in the 35th minute with a left-footed shot from the edge of the box off Callum McGregor's cross. Three minutes later, Rangers defender John Lundstram diverted a Daizen Maeda cross into his own net, doubling Celtic's lead.

Rangers cut Celtic's lead two minutes later when Cyriel Dessers headed in from close range, but things got worse for them before halftime when Lundstram was sent off for a studs-up challenge on Alistair Johnston.

Mohamed Diomande brought down O'Riley in the box early in the second half, but Rangers' keeper Jack Butland saved the penalty, denying O'Riley a second goal and keeping them in the game.

"I practised penalties yesterday and I was probably in two minds about it," O'Riley said.

Celtic continued to create chances, with Maeda scoring twice but being flagged offside on both occasions as the hosts held on to their slim lead to secure the victory.

While Celtic have one hand on the Premiership trophy, Rangers will have another opportunity to avenge their rivals when they meet in the Scottish Cup final on May 25.

Celtic face Kilmarnock on Wednesday, and a draw guarantees the title.

SportsLigue