Celtic roared back to the summit of the Scottish Premiership, reclaiming their top spot with a commanding 2-0 victory over Kilmarnock at Rugby Park. The win comes on the heels of their impressive Champions League victory over RB Leipzig and their journey to the League Cup final. The Hoops knew they needed to end the week on a high note, especially after Aberdeen’s earlier win over Dundee had momentarily propelled them to the top of the table.
Kilmarnock, fresh off a stunning upset against Rangers earlier in the season, displayed determination and ambition throughout the match. Marley Watkins came agonizingly close to opening the scoring, his powerful shot narrowly missing the target, crashing against the foot of the post. However, as halftime approached, Callum McGregor expertly maneuvered the ball into the back of the net with a curling cross from outside the box, leaving goalkeeper Robby McCrorie with no chance.
Despite conceding the lead, Derek McInnes’ Kilmarnock side continued to threaten Celtic’s goal. Kasper Schmeichel, the Celtic goalkeeper, was called upon to make several crucial saves, showcasing his exceptional skills to deny Matty Kennedy and Brad Lyons. Ultimately, it was Nicolas Kuhn who sealed the victory for the Hoops with a thunderous strike into the corner, adding another goal to his growing tally with his fourth goal in his last three games.
The win sees Celtic regain their lead atop the Scottish Premiership table, ahead of Aberdeen on goal difference, both teams on 31 points heading into the international break. Kilmarnock remain eighth in the table. With the league now on pause for international fixtures, Celtic will look to maintain their momentum when they return to action.
