The second Old Firm derby of the season was won in the 87th minute as Celtic reached the Betfred Cup final to face Aberdeen.
Moussa Dembele scored the winner six weeks after bagging a hat-trick in his derby debut. Losing the game late on was a sickener for Rangers but there was always the feeling that there would be a winner before 90 minutes was up.
Mark Warburton kept Matt Gilks in goal for the semi-final as he had played all but one of the Betfred Cup games this season. That decision was a very good one as the Scottish goalkeeper put in a terrific performance and made some outstanding saves.
YouTube: REACTION | Mark Warburton | Rangers 0-1 Celtic
The Rangers boss also played two right backs on the same wing as James Tavernier was pushed further forward ahead of Lee Hodson. This decision proved to be a good one also, as they both did their job in stopping the threat of Scott Sinclair and Kieran Tierney on Celtic’s left side.
Ultimately though, Matt Gilks and his stubborn defence were beaten in the end as Dembele tapped in Leigh Griffiths’ cross with a few minutes left.
Rangers only really had one shot on goal to note, that being Jason Holt’s attempt in the second half from Tavernier’s cut back which was blocked on its way to goal.
The scoreline and defensive performance was much better than the last derby. However, there is still much improvement needed for Rangers going forward.
YouTube: REACTION | Lee Wallace | Rangers 0-1 Celtic
Here are my player ratings for the game:
Matt Gilks – 9
Was heroic at times in the game and kept the score down with his saves.
Lee Hodson – 7
Was a surprise inclusion in the team but did well operating at right back. Was tasked with keeping an eye on Scott Sinclair and defended well overall.
Rob Kiernan – 7
Was heavily criticised after the 5-1 defeat but was a lot better here. Won the ball in the air on numerous occasions and rarely caught out.
Clint Hill – 7
Has made Wilson and Kiernan look better defenders when he plays with them. Closed the gaps when he saw them and kept things organised.
Lee Wallace – 6
The goal came from his side when he lost Griffiths but contributed to some good defensive play. Tried making things happen going forward but very little did.
Andy Halliday – 7
Had to be in the starting lineup and did well throughout the game. Made some good interceptions and remained calm.
Josh Windass – 5
Never really got going in the game, a shadow of the player from the last Old Firm. Tried driving from midfield at times but not much creativity.
Jason Holt – 7
Was our best player on the ball in the midfield. Always positive in possession and had the only real chance to score.
Barrie McKay – 5
After a good performance at Inverness there was hope he’d continue in that form. Unfortunately he looks nothing of the player he can be at the moment.
James Tavernier – 6
Moved further forward to accommodate Lee Hodson and track Tierney. Did well defensively.
Kenny Miller – 6
We were right to start with Miller up front but his work rate wasn’t getting its rewards. The lack of a final ball meant he didn’t have chances to take.
Joe Garner – 4
Came on for Miller and once again put himself about. Doesn’t look like a goalscorer and must be frustrated with his first few months in a Rangers jersey.
Martyn Waghorn – 4
Replaced Windass and finished the game on the right wing. Tried to create but had no end product.
Joe Dodoo – 3
Replaced McKay but there was little difference between them. Had a chance to deliver a first time cross into the box but opted out and lost the ball.
