Cameron Carter-Vickers returned from injury as a substitute and produced a decisive late block to deny Josh Mulligan as Celtic beat Hibernian 2-1 at Easter Road. The win kept Celtic top of the Premiership after a run of two wins in seven games, including three European defeats and two Old Firm losses.
Carter-Vickers makes decisive return
The centre back had been sidelined with a hamstring injury after his comments following the second defeat to Rangers, when he described Celtic's style as "random" and called for more clarity from the coaching staff. His absence led to speculation about unrest in the squad, but he was determined to make an impact on his return.
Manager Martin O'Neill was grateful for the block, saying: "Really satisfying, absolutely. Big block for us, as well, too, because it's goalbound." He added that Carter-Vickers seemed to have come through the game without complaint.
Chaotic end at Easter Road
Celtic had come from behind after Owen Erling fired Hibs ahead from a Joe Newell free kick after three minutes. Josh Kerr's own goal restored parity before Camilo Duran scored his 10th goal of the season to seal the points.
O'Neill admitted his side were slow to start: "We were still on the bus when Hibs scored. It's a very, very good free kick from their viewpoint, really clever. But we were just absolutely asleep for it." He praised the quick response and Duran's winning goal.
Murray impresses in defence
Dane Murray ended the game at right back after Alistair Johnston broke down on his comeback. O'Neill praised Murray, who has missed two years with injury, saying: "He's got all the potential in the world to be a really fine centre back." He did not rule out a Scotland call-up for the youngster.
O'Neill described the victory as the best of the season, citing the exertions of Thursday night's European match and the early start. He said: "To recover from the goal behind, considering the exertions on Thursday night, yeah, really pleased."
Striker struggles continue
In contrast, Kasper Hogh extended his goal drought to 12 games after missing a chance in the box. O'Neill said: "He's a box player and I think the one Callum Osmand slid across the box, I think a confident Kasper would be sliding that one into the net." He added that Hogh needs a goal and must fight through a lack of confidence.
Murray acknowledged the difficult conditions: "It was tough. The ball is swirling in the air and you try to get in line with it but it changes at the last minute. It's important to grind out the three points when the conditions are like those."
