Celtic left it late but managed to avoid what could have been two crucial points dropped against Ross County, ending a difficult week on a high note.
Brendan Rodgers’ side came from behind to secure a 2-1 win, with a late goal from Nicolas Kuhn sealing all three points in a hard-fought Scottish Premiership clash.
The match started with Celtic controlling much of the possession, but it was Ross County who took a surprise lead.
A penalty was awarded after Liam Scales handled the ball, and Ronan Hale stepped up to convert from the spot, giving the hosts the lead in the first half.
Despite Celtic’s dominance, they struggled to create clear-cut chances and looked like they might be heading for a frustrating draw.
However, the tide turned in the 76th minute when Alistair Johnston popped up with an equaliser.
The Canadian full-back converted from close range after Callum McGregor’s shot fell kindly to him. This gave Celtic renewed hope and the momentum they needed to push for a winner.
As the clock ticked down, it looked like the match might end all square, but a moment of magic from substitute Nicolas Kuhn saw the German winger break through Ross County’s defence and slot home to make it 2-1 in the dying minutes.
Celtic’s victory was crucial, particularly with rivals Rangers and Aberdeen still to play, and the three points helped ease some of the disappointment following their midweek Champions League defeat to Borussia Dortmund.
It was a match where the champions struggled to impose themselves fully, but they showed character and resilience to grind out the win.
Former Celtic striker Chris Sutton, who has never been shy in offering his opinion, took to social media after the game to share his thoughts.
Sutton praised the impact of Celtic’s substitutes, stating on X (formerly Twitter), “Celtic huffed and puffed and finally got there. The subs changed the game. McCowan excellent, Kyogo’s movement fantastic, Forrest the old stager looked sharp. Kuhn wonderful finish.”
Sutton also had a dig at Kris Boyd, who expressed disapproval of Kuhn’s celebration after scoring the winner.
Boyd believed the German winger should have received a second yellow card for his exuberant celebration with the travelling Celtic fans. However, Sutton dismissed the criticism, sarcastically commenting, “Kris Boyd didn’t like him celebrating the winner… dear me.”
Celtic’s domination of possession told the story of the match, with over 82% of the ball. Despite this, they struggled to break down a well-organised and resilient Ross County side.
County, managed by Don Cowie, had just five shots, only two of which were on target, including the penalty. In contrast, Celtic fired 23 shots at County’s goal but were wasteful, with just six on target.
Ross County goalkeeper Ross Laidlaw played his part too, making four important saves to keep his side in the game.
Celtic’s persistence finally paid off, though, with Johnston’s late equaliser followed by Kuhn’s clinical finish.
The victory maintained Celtic’s perfect start to the Scottish Premiership season, and Rodgers will be relieved to head into the international break on a high.
Now, attention turns to Aberdeen and Rangers, who will need to show their mettle in their upcoming fixtures.
For Celtic, it was a reminder that even when things aren’t going smoothly, they have the quality and grit to get the job done.