Celtic 3-0 Livingston: Match Review
Celtic returned to Celtic Park for league action, where they welcomed David Martindale’s Livingston in what was another straightforward performance from the Bhoys.
After a slow start from both teams, Celtic took full control of the game by taking the lead around the half hour mark. Reo Hatate laid the ball for Greg Taylor, who smashed the ball into the back of the net from 16 yards out.
Livingston offered nothing at the front of goal other than a missed opportunity where Joe Hart failed to make the initial save, but the ball bounced off the post. This was after the visitors took advantage from a slip up from Carl Starfelt who believed he was fouled.
Four minutes after Celtic’s first goal, they doubled their advantage, courtesy of Daizen Maeda. Livingston’s Ayo Obileye attempted to clear a cross from Matt O’Riley, but failed to do so as the ball came bouncing of Maeda’s head and into the back of the net.
With minutes until the interval, on form Kyogo Furuhashi struck the ball home for Celtic’s third and last goal of the evening.
After a vastly dominate first half performance, the Bhoys lacked quality in the second period. They managed to keep control of possession, but ultimately couldn’t get the ball towards the opposition’s goal.
While Celtic were in control, Livingston showed great belief in themselves and didn’t fully give up. This was down to Martindale’s defensive tactics and ensuring his team take their time on the ball with little time wasting at any given opportunity.
The scoreline remained unchanged throughout the rest of the game and it was another three points for Celtic to once again maintain their nine point lead ahead of Rangers.
When speaking on the game, Ange Postecoglou said: "Again, another strong performance. We started the game really well and controlled it."
Greg Taylor also gave his thoughts on the game and his performance, he said: "I thought we had good control the whole first half, to be honest, and it was just a matter of time and taking the chance or having a moment.
"I'm a wee bit prolific against Livingston it seems to be!"