Rangers vs Celtic- 3 talking points as the Hoops pile more misery on rivals

Celtic showed the resilience of true champions as they twice came from behind to win an enthralling derby 3-2 against Rangers. There was plenty of talking points from the best Glasgow derby in recent years. Here we look at three major conclusions from the match…

French trio come to the fore

Last season’s first derby clash was the making of Moussa Dembele as he netted a hat-trick and announced himself on the big stage. On Sunday he was equally instrumental in the Bhoys’ superb victory at Ibrox. His goal just before half-time to make it 2-2 was beautifully taken and it changed the momentum of the game.

It seemed to kick him into gear as he went from strength to strength and pulled the Gers’ centre-backs all over the park. When Celtic were reduced to 10 men Dembele’s work ethic was excellent as was his ability to relieve pressure on those behind him. It was another quality showing by the forward; an example of how to play the lone striker role topped off with a stunning assist for the winner.

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The derby also proved to be an occasion where Odsonne Edouard took the step from boy to man. His development during this loan spell has been a slow process but over recent weeks there’s been a significant improvement in Edouard’s game. He looks leaner, more tactically aware, comfortable in his surroundings and he’s scoring goals more regularly. It was on this very platform that I suggested he should start at Ibrox.

His cameo as a sub was enough, however, as he curled home a terrific winner. It’s a great reward for a youngster who’s worked incredibly hard to make a name for himself. On top of that, Olivier Ntcham was class in the centre of the pitch. Calm and progressive in possession, energetic, combative and offering support in attack- this was a complete midfield display that deservedly got man of the match.

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Jittery centre-backs but youngsters shine

While this game showed the firepower and quality Celtic have in their ranks from middle to front, it was also a reminder of their frailties in defence. Both goals were easily avoidable and the cause of sloppy errors. Dedryck Boyata can count himself lucky to be on the winning side after gifting Rangers the opener and almost allowing Alfredo Morelos to strike while the score was 2-2.

The Belgian was a nervous wreck all afternoon while Jozo Simunovic was shown a red card at a crucial point in the contest. Luckily for the Hoops their youngsters stood up to the pressure. Kieran Tierney, Kristoffer Ajer and Jack Hendry were colossal in the latter stages and Scott Bain had a debut to remember with two massive saves.

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Hoops show they’ve got bottle

Perhaps what this game highlighted most was the difference in mentality between both sets of players. The discussion in the build up to the game centred around Rangers players showing off their confidence while Celtic players maintained they “do their talking on the pitch.”

The truth is, when Rangers had the chance to seize the initiative they froze collectively and their key players choked under the pressure. Morelos failed to take two gilt-edged opportunities and captain James Tavernier was hardly in inspirational form. The whole team was lost and out of ideas. Celtic’s main players, meanwhile, stood up to the challenge with 10 men and showed the character of champions.