Celtic maintained their three-point lead at the top of the Scottish Premiership with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Hibernian at Easter Road, thanks to Adam Idah’s injury-time penalty.
Idah scores twice from the spot on first start
The 22-year-old striker, who joined Celtic on loan from Norwich City in January, made his first start for the club and showed his composure from the spot twice. He opened the scoring in the 10th minute after Nectarios Triantis fouled Alistair Johnston inside the box. It was the second penalty conceded by the Greek defender in as many games.
Celtic dominated the first half and could have added more goals, but Hibs goalkeeper David Marshall made some fine saves to keep his side in the game. The hosts improved after the break and equalised in the 60th minute through Dylan Levitt, who scored a stunning goal from the edge of the area. The Welsh midfielder, on loan from Manchester United, curled a left-footed shot into the top corner, leaving Celtic keeper Fraser Forster with no chance.
VAR drama in the dying minutes
The game looked set for a draw, but Celtic were awarded another penalty in the 92nd minute after VAR intervention. Kyogo Furuhashi, who had come on as a substitute, was brought down by Joe Newell in the box, and referee Kevin Clancy pointed to the spot after checking the monitor. Idah stepped up again and calmly slotted the ball past Marshall, sparking wild celebrations among the Celtic players and staff.
Hibs were furious with the decision and protested to the officials, but it was too late. The final whistle blew moments later, and Celtic secured a vital win in their title race with Rangers, who had earlier beaten Dundee 3-0 at Ibrox. Brendan Rodgers, who had never won at Easter Road in four previous attempts, praised his team’s character and resilience.
Hibs’ winless run continues
Hibs, meanwhile, suffered their fourth defeat in seven games and remained in seventh place, 10 points behind fourth-placed Kilmarnock. Nick Montgomery, who took over as manager from Jack Ross last month, said he was proud of his players’ performance and felt they deserved at least a point. He also questioned the VAR decision and said it was hard to take.
The result means Celtic have won 19 of their 25 league games this season, scoring 57 goals and conceding 17. They have a three-point advantage over Rangers, who have a game in hand. The two rivals will meet again in the Old Firm derby at Celtic Park on March 11.
