Martin O’Neill began his second stint as Celtic manager with a win against Falkirk.
There was tension outside the ground in the build-up to the game as Celtic fans protested against the board in large numbers.
O’Neill admitted to feeling nervous before kick off but saw his Hoops side dominate on the ball.
Benjamin Nygren had a number of chances but it was Johnny Kenny who broke the deadlock on the 30 minute mark after the midfielder’s effort crashed off the post and into the path of the forward, who tucked home into an empty net.
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Nygren and Kenny then combined once again as the former headed back Anthony Ralston’s cross into Kenny, who tucked home once again.
The midfielder then added to his two assists with a goal of his own after Saracchi’s shot was palmed out to his feet, where he couldn’t miss by tapping into an empty net.
Sebastian Tounekti then added a fourth after he latched onto Luke McCowan’s long ball, evading the challenge from the defender before tucking the ball away to cap off an excellent night.
With that, here is how 67 Hail Hail rated the performance of every individual to play.
Celtic player ratings vs Falkirk Kasper Schmeichel – 6
Had to make a couple of saves in the first half but was hardly tested after that and will be glad to get a clean sheet under his belt.
Anthony Ralston – 6
Delivered a brilliant ball into the box for the second goal and was left relatively untroubled at the back.
Auston Trusty – 7
Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images
First game back in some time and looked brilliant in the centre-back position. Question marks have to be asked as to why he hasn’t been used more this season, but he has done himself no harm when it comes to getting a place in the side on Sunday.
Liam Scales – 7
Untroubled and dealt with everything simply. Becoming the norm now that Liam Scales has a solid performance.
Marcelo Saracchi – 8
Continues to deliver every time he plays. His ability to drive up and down the pitch makes Celtic a real threat in the attacking department and is capable of delivering a wicked ball into the box.
Arne Engels – 6
Seemed to be playing slightly deeper alongside Callum McGregor to allow Nygren to push higher up the pitch. Made a lovely through ball pass towards Kenny in the first half and was tidy in the middle of the park after that.
Callum McGregor (C) – 7
Another solid performance in the heart of the Celtic midfield. Led by example as always.
Benjamin Nygren – 9
Photo by ANDY BUCHANAN/AFP via Getty Images
One of his best games in a Celtic shirt this season. Involved in both goals, looked like he had an extra yard of pace and thoroughly deserved that goal in the second half. Outstanding.
James Forrest – 6
Always bursting with energy and looked desperate to create or get on the scoresheet. It didn’t come off but you can never fault his work rate.
Johnny Kenny – 8
Took his chance under O’Neill with both hands and got a brilliant double in the first half. Arguably could’ve scored more but will be delighted with his display.
Sebastian Tounekti – 7
Threatened every now and then but did so well for his goal. Has formed a good understanding with Saracchi though, which bodes well for the future.
SubstitutesMichel-Ange Balikwisha – 6
Still needs to show more but played some forward-thinking passes and with a new manager in place, will hopefully get better.
Daizen Maeda – 6
Great to see him back in action after an injury lay-off and get some minutes ahead of Sunday.
Luke McCowan – 7
Fantastic impact off the bench and provided the assist for Tounekti’s goal with a sumptuous through ball for the Tunisian.
Reo Hatate – 6
Needed taking out of the starting XI after struggling to make an impact in recent weeks. Will hopefully feel rested going into the weekend.
Callum Osmand – 6
Showed some confidence and had a good effort on goal late into the game. He seems like he could have a future.