Celtic consolidated their position at the summit of the Scottish Premiership, extending their advantage to four points with a hard‑fought victory over a struggling Kilmarnock side.
Liam Scales turned Camilo Duran’s cross into the top corner in the 26th minute, securing a crucial win that leaves Celtic on the back of consecutive victories ahead of the international break.
Apart from the decisive strike, Celtic struggled to find the net, and striker Kasper Hogh in particular endured a frustrating afternoon, while midfielder Benjamin Nygren missed a second‑half penalty.
An earlier effort from Hogh was chalked off for an offside infringement, extending his goalless streak to 16 games. His last goal came via a hat‑trick against Kilmarnock on his second appearance for the club.
Later, the Danish forward calmly slotted home from seven yards after being set up by Nygren and celebrated by sprinting to the standing section.
His celebration was brief; referee John Beaton was called to the video assistant referee and awarded Killie a free‑kick after Mika Baur fouled Greg Kiltie.
Kilmarnock created several decent chances in the first half, while Celtic, despite dominating the second period, failed to extend their lead to two goals.
In stoppage time the champions were almost penalised, but Ieuan Owen failed to connect with Erik Ring’s inviting low cross inside the six‑yard box.
Key moments from Celtic Park
Early save by Sam Johnstone from Tom Lowery’s effort, then a quick reaction to deny a second attempt. Kasper Hogh’s strike was ruled out for a foul on Greg Kiltie in the build‑up. Scales’ 26th‑minute finish opened the scoring. Michael Schjonning‑Larsen’s long‑range attempt was saved by Johnstone. Colby Donovan came close to doubling the lead. Duran’s curling effort from outside the box was kept out by Nico Mantl. Hogh’s powerful shot from inside the box flew over the bar. A penalty was awarded after Aaron Tshibola’s hand ball, but Nygren’s spot‑kick was saved by Mantl. In the final minutes, Erik Ring’s low cross found Ieuan Owen just out of reach.
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