Rangers defender Clint Hill scored a dramatic late equaliser to deny Celtic victory in the Old Firm derby at Celtic Park, with the match ending 1-1. The result leaves Celtic's domestic unbeaten run intact but sparked controversy over a late penalty appeal.
Celtic had taken the lead in the 35th minute through Stuart Armstrong, who fired a left-footed drive past Rangers goalkeeper Wes Foderingham. The hosts dominated much of the game but failed to extend their lead, with Armstrong forced off due to a calf injury.
Rangers grew in confidence as the match progressed, with Craig Gordon making a fine save from Martyn Waghorn before Jason Holt curled wide. In the 89th minute, Hill pounced at the back post after Gordon parried Emerson Hyndman's shot, slotting home to level the scores.
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers and striker Leigh Griffiths were adamant that a penalty should have been awarded moments before Hill's goal, when Griffiths went down under Hill's challenge. 'It was a clear-cut penalty,' Rodgers said. 'Clint's a good guy, a real honest fella, and he knows he got away with one.'
Hill admitted the decision could have gone either way. 'With it being here at their place, nine times out of 10 it is given,' the 38-year-old said. 'I thought we deserved a bit of luck over the course of the game.'
The draw does little to damage Celtic's title charge, as they remain on course for a domestic treble. The two sides will meet again next month in the Scottish Cup semi-final.
