Albain Ajeti was the late hero as Celtic returned to league action for the first time in 10 days, defeating Dundee United 1-0
The Hoops will be absolutely delighted to be taking the three points back up the road, to Glasgow in what was a tough game against a well organised United side.
It was a bit of a slow start from Celtic, who were stuffing to get controlled possession. United were pressing very well, not allowing the Hoops anytime on the ball
The first chance came after 12 minutes for Odsonne Edouard. A poor cross somehow found its way to Edouard in the box. His lovely half-volleyed striker came off the outside of the post.
From then on it was pretty turgid stuff. Celtic we’re trying to make things happen, switching the play from side to side, having a few chances saved well by Siegrist in goal from Edouard and Christie
Just before half-time the champions were looking to be getting into the game more but still couldn’t take advantage.
Within a minute of the second half, Celtic were coming close again. A brilliant strike from Ryan Christie, who had cut in from the right-hand side, attempted to bend an effort into the top-corner. His shot was brilliantly saved by Siegrist again though.
To change the game, Neil Lennon made three changes to the side, bringing on James Forrest, Albian Ajeti and Kristoffer Ajer for Mohamed Elyounoussi, Greg Taylor and Oliver Ntcham
Celtic kept pushing for a goal, with Odsonne Edouard clipping the top of the crossbar from a free-kick. Still there was no breakthrough after the Bhoys 20th attempt on target
The Hoops finally found the back of the net with eight minutes to go, through new signing Albain Ajeti. Making his league debut the Swiss striker was in the right place at the right time, within a scrap in the penalty box. The ball found its way to the new man, who slotted it under the United defenders and into the net.
In what was an uneventful game in which Celtic dominated and could have scored many more goals, the Hoops will be buzzing to be taking home all three points.
New signing Albian Ajeti was the hero as Neil Lennon’s side grabbed their first clean sheet and away victory of the season.
It certainly wasn’t the best performance you will ever see from the champions, but I’m sure the whole squad and management team will be delighted to take all three points home.
We move on to Wednesday night against Ferencvaros, in the Champions League back at Celtic Park
Dundee United Starting 11
Siegrist, Neilson (Freeman 59’), Connolly, Reynolds, Robson, Bolton (McMullan 74’), Harkes, Butcher, Pawlett, Chalmers (Sporle 65’), Clark (Appéré 74’)
Subs
Mehmet, Freeman, Sporle, Powers, Glass, King, McMullan, Smith, Appéré
Celtic Starting 11
Barkas, Frimpong, Jullien, Bitton, Taylor (Ajer 74’), Brown, McGregor, Ntcham (Ajeti 74’), Christie, Elyounoussi (Forrest 62’), Edouard (Klimala 85’)
Subs
Bain, Elhamed, Ajer, Soro, McInroy, Harper, Forrest, Klimala, Ajeti
Goal Scorers
Dundee United- N/A
Celtic- Ajeti (83’)
Cards
Dundee United Yellow- Butcher (80’), Freeman (90+3′)
Celtic Yellow- McGregor (25’), Brown (84’)
More Info
Referee-Andrew Dallas
Venue- Tannadice Park
Next Match- Ferencvaros, Celtic Park 26/08/20
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