The Scottish Premiership title race remains in the balance after a roller-coaster 3-3 draw between Celtic and Rangers at Ibrox this afternoon.
A shock Daizen Maeda goal gave Celtic the lead within a minute of kick-off after the winger superbly charged down a complacent James Tavernier.
Then, Connor Goldson handled the ball in the Celtic box, allowing Matt O’Riley to dink a cool penalty past a helpless Jack Butland.
Celtic were superb in the first half, dominating proceedings and leaving Ibrox ringing in a chorus of boos.
As you’d expect, Rangers did show more after the interval and had a Tavernier penalty to cheer after a dubious decision against Alistair Johnston, who was judged to have fouled Fabio Silva.
Abdallah Sima netted after 86 minutes but substitute Adam Idah silenced Ibrox with a stunning 88th-minute finish low past Butland to put Celtic back in front immediately.
However, there was another late sting in the tail when Rabbi Matondo curled an unstoppable finish past Joe Hart.
Brendan Rodgers on Celtic draw against Rangers
The Celtic boss told BBC Radio Scotland after the match: “I thought the performance was very, very good. To come here, play with no supporters and play with that courage – the first half we were excellent, we could have had the game out of sight. The composure in how we played and the pressure we put them under was very, very pleasing.
“You expect a reaction in the second half. I’m disappointed with the penalty because that gives them an up in the game when we were the much better team.
“I think if you watch it back the referee makes the right decision in the game [before VAR got involved] – he’s obviously seen what we all see in the fact Alistair Johnston has made a really good recovery challenge. He’s going one way and then he gets the ball, he knocks it away – the player then simulates and goes over. I thought it was the right decision in the game but it went against us.
“We’re disappointed not to win but to leave here with it all in our hands is what we wanted – for that, I’m really proud.”
Celtic still control their own destiny in the title race
After today’s result, Celtic sit one point ahead of second-placed Rangers having played a game more. Philippe Clement’s outfit will get the chance to go top against Dundee mid-week at Dens.
However, if the Bhoys continue to pick up points then there’s the opportunity to beat Rangers at Celtic Park after the split and return to the summit. That scenario would have the silverware within Celtic’s grasp.
That’s why Rodgers is taking satisfaction from today’s result despite giving up a two-goal lead.