Euro 2012 results: Czech Republic 1 Poland 0

Posted on June 17, 2012 by adminsports

Czech Republic 1 Poland 0: Co-hosts limp out as Jiracek sends Bilek's men through

UPDATED:

21:03 GMT, 16 June 2012

Petr Jiracek's second-half goal ensured the Czech Republic squeaked into the quarter-finals of Euro 2012 as co-hosts Poland suffered an early exit.

Outplayed for the majority of the first half, the Czechs were seemingly stung into action after Greece took a half-time lead against Russia in the other Group A game in Warsaw.

That result left Michal Bilek's men needing all three points to reach the last eight and after dominating the tempo after the interval, Jiracek's calm finish ensured they topped the group, with Russia and Poland the eliminated teams.

Party time: The Czech Republic celebrate their goal (above) and qualification (below)

Czech players celebrate after winning during the Euro 2012 championships football match between the Czech Republic and Poland

MATCH FACTS

Czech Republic:
Cech, Gebre Selassie, Sivok, Kadlec, Limbersky, Hubschman, Plasil,
Jiracek (Rajtoral 83), Kolar, Pilar (Rezek 87), Baros (Pekhart 90).

Subs Not Used: Lastuvka, Suchy, Hubnik, Necid, Rosicky, Petrzela, Lafata, Darida, Drobny.

Booked: Limbersky, Plasil, Pekhart.

Goals: Jiracek 72.

Poland:
Tyton, Piszczek, Wasilewski, Perquis, Boenisch, Dudka, Polanski
(Grosicki 56), Blaszczykowski, Murawski (Mierzejewski 73), Obraniak
(Brozek 73), Lewandowski.

Subs Not Used: Szczesny, Wojtkowiak, Kaminski, Matuszczyk, Rybus, Wawrzyniak, Sobiech, Wolski, Sandomierski.

Booked: Murawski, Polanski, Wasilewski, Blaszczykowski, Perquis.

Att: 44,416

Ref: Craig Thomson (Scotland).

Poland knew nothing less than a win would see them reach the knockout stages at the expense of the Czech Republic, who also needed three points to guarantee their qualification for the last eight.

Similar to their previous two matches, Poland were understandably backed by boisterous home support and they nearly gave them something to shout about early on but Dariusz Dudka's overhead kick hit the side netting.

Yet they should have been behind soon after and were grateful for Vaclav Pilar completely fluffing his lines in front of goal after Theodor Gebre Selassie had picked him out with a low ball into the area.

The frenetic start continued, with Poland midfielder Ludovic Obraniak's free-kick from a narrow angle hitting the side netting once more while Robert Lewandowski should have done better after slicing horribly wide with a decent sight at goal.

It seemed only a matter of time that the Czech Republic defence would be breached and goalkeeper Petr Cech had to be at his best to push away Sebastian Boenisch's dipping 30-yard effort.

Winner: Jiracek scores slots the ball past Przemyslaw Tyton to send the Czech Republic through

With the rain teeming down in Wroclaw, the action slowed down a touch although the Czechs, who beat Greece after losing to Russia, ended the half well.

Milan Baros, after beating the offside trap, failed to control David Limbersky's chip over the defence while Pilar's powerful strike from the edge of the area was gathered by Polish keeper Przemyslaw Tyton at the second attempt.

Devastated: Poland players react to their exit from Euro 2012 after defeat to the Czech Republic

As the teams trudged off at the interval it was the Czechs who would be going through but Greece taking a shock lead on the stroke of half-time against Russia meant both the Czech Republic and Poland needed victory if the result in Warsaw stayed the same.

Spurred into action the Czechs responded positively, dominating possession in the early stages of the second half but failing to create any clear cut chances.

Bored Czech Republic's Tomas Rosicky looks at his mobile phone while sitting on the substitutes' bench

However, Poland were conceding needless free-kicks on the edge of their area and were nearly made to pay for their reckless defending.

Plasil's excellent delivery found Tomas Sivok but his header was blocked and then instantly punched away by Tyton.

Heartbreak: A Poland fan looks on as her side is knocked out of Euro 2012 by the Czech Republic

The Czechs were rewarded for their second-half persistence in the 72nd minute as Jiracek gave them a deserved lead.

Baros ran through on goal before sliding the ball to Jiracek, who cut past Boenisch and coolly slotted past Tyton.

Clash: Michal Kadlec and Robert Lewandowski challenge for the ball in Wroclaw

Poland head coach Franciszek Smuda threw caution to the wind, bringing on Pawel Brozek and Adrian Mierzejewski immediately after but they failed to test Cech although the Czech Republic defended stoutly.

However, in injury time Poland's Jakub Blaszczykowski went through on goal and lifted the ball over Cech only for Tomas Sivok to head off the line, with the final whistle blown immediately after to herald scenes of jubilation from Bilek's men.

Battle: Czech midfielder Vaclav Pilar (left) vies with Polish midfielder Ludovic Obraniak

Poland v Russia – Euro 2012 live

Posted on June 12, 2012 by adminsports

EURO 2012 LIVE: Poland v Russia – follow the action from Warsaw as it happens

UPDATED:

18:52 GMT, 12 June 2012

Follow Sportsmail's coverage of Euro 2012 as Russia hope to book a quarter-final spot when they face co-hosts Poland in Warsaw. The Russians impressed in their 4-1 opening day win over Czech Republic and know another thee points will book their place in the last eight. Send me your thoughts on the action at dan.ripley@dailymail.co.uk or contact me on Twitter @Ripinho.

Poland 0-0 Russia (7.45pm)

Click here for the live goals as they go in

Poland: Tyton, Piszczek, Wasilewski,
Perquis, Boenisch, Dudka, Polanski, Blaszczykowski, Murawski, Obraniak,
Lewandowski.
Subs: Sandomierski, Wojtkowiak, Kaminski, Matuszczyk,
Rybus, Wawrzyniak, Sobiech, Mierzejewski, Wolski, Grosicki, Brozek.

Russia: Malafeev, Aniukov,
Berezutsky, Ignashevich, Zhirkov, Shirokov, Denisov, Zyryanov, Dzagoev,
Kerzhakov, Arshavin. Subs: Akinfeev, Sharonov, Izmailov, Pavlyuchenko,
Kombarov, Kokorin, Granat, Pogrebnyak, Nababkin, Glushakov, Semshov,
Shunin.

Referee: Wolfgang Stark (Germany)

6min: Yuri Zhirkov gives away a foul on Poland's right flank and this is a good chance for the co-hosts.

3min: Attacking start from both that has failed to produce chances but I feel we won't have to wait long for one at this quick tempo.

Kick-off: Poland get us underway.

19.41: Some tension too as the Russian anthem is jeered.

19.38: Out come the players at an overcast Warsaw. Having got used to empty seated stadiums, it's a pleasant surprise to see the Polish and Russian fans fans pack this ground out. Terrific atmosphere.

19.35: From InfostradaLive:

Soviet Union/Russia have never beaten a host country at a European Championship or World Cup (0W-2D-5L).

19.30: Focusing to on-pitch events though, despite Kerzhakov's hapless finishing against the Czech Republic Russia are just three points away from the last eight.

If they don't win tonight, you still fancy them to get a result against Greece and with the shackles off I expect some impressive stuff from Advocaat's side.

19.25: Sadly this game had led to some nasty incidents away from the ground today.

The two sets of supporters clashed in Warsaw earlier on which has led to a latest report of 56 arrests and seven injuries.

19.20: From InfostradaLive:

Poland and the Soviet Union met in two international tournaments, the 1972 Olympic Games (2-1 win Poland) and the 1982 World Cup (0-0 draw). On both occasions, Poland progressed in the tournament and ended up on the podium (gold medal in 1972 and third place in 1982).

Ready to go: Poland and Russia fans quickly filled the National Stadium in Warsaw

19.15: Two changes for Poland. Arsenal keeper Wojciech Szczesny is suspended after being sent off against Greece and is replaced by Przemyslaw Tyton – whose first action as a substitute on the opening day was to save a penalty

In midfield, Dariusz Dudka comes in for Maciej Rybus.

19.10: Well how about that then. Russia go unchanged, but while that doesn't seem much of a surprise after thrashing Czech Republic 4-1, I can't believe Alexander Kerzhakov is starting.

The amount of chances he missed on the opening day was criminal and it was only his replacement, Roman Pavlyuchenko, that made the game safe. 'Super Pav' again has to be content with a place on the bench.

19.05: Full line-ups from Warsaw:

Poland v Russia
Poland: Tyton, Piszczek, Wasilewski, Perquis, Boenisch, Dudka, Polanski, Blaszczykowski, Murawski, Obraniak, Lewandowski. Subs: Sandomierski, Wojtkowiak, Kaminski, Matuszczyk, Rybus, Wawrzyniak, Sobiech, Mierzejewski, Wolski, Grosicki, Brozek.

Russia: Malafeev, Aniukov, Berezutsky, Ignashevich, Zhirkov, Shirokov, Denisov, Zyryanov, Dzagoev, Kerzhakov, Arshavin. Subs: Akinfeev, Sharonov, Izmailov, Pavlyuchenko, Kombarov, Kokorin, Granat, Pogrebnyak, Nababkin, Glushakov, Semshov, Shunin.

Referee: Wolfgang Stark (Germany)

19.00: Group A has proved to be a little gem so far. Three games have produced 10 goals and although Czech Republic's 2-1 win over Greece lacked panache, surely the impressive Russians can step in to help address that matter tonight.

Team news is on the way but whoever starts, Dick Advocaat's side have arguably been the best team at these championships so far.

Eye on the ball: Andrey Arshavin and Alexander Kerzhakov both featured in Russia's opening day win

Poland v Greece live

Posted on June 8, 2012 by adminsports

EURO 2012 LIVE: Poland v Greece – follow the opening game from Warsaw as it happens

UPDATED:

15:15 GMT, 8 June 2012

The long wait is over as Euro 2012 kicks into action when Poland play Greece in the tournament's opening game in Warsaw. Follow Sportsmail's live coverage of all the action as the 2004 winners attempt to spoil the party for the joint hosts in Group A. Send me your thoughts on the opening game here at dan.ripley@dailymail.co.uk or contact me on Twitter @Ripinho.

Poland v Greece (5pm)

Click here for the live goals as they go in

Poland: Szczesny, Piszczek,
Wasilewski, Perquis, Boenisch, Murawski, Polanski, Blaszczykowski,
Obraniak, Rybus, Lewandowski.
Subs: Sandomierski, Wojtkowiak, Kaminski,
Dudka, Matuszczyk, Wawrzyniak, Sobiech, Mierzejewski, Wolski, Grosicki,
Brozek, Tyton.

Greece: Chalkias, Torosidis,
Papastathopoulos, Avraam Papadopoulos, Holebas, Maniatis, Katsouranis,
Karagounis, Ninis, Gekas, Samaras.
Subs: Tzorvas, Tzavelas, Malezas,
Kyriakos Papadopoulos, Makos, Liberopoulos, Mitroglou, Salpingidis,
Fotakis, Fortounis, Fetfatzidis, Sifakis.

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

14.16: So let's focus on our opening game, which to be honest isn't the most appetising I have ever seen.

But let's give it a chance, South Africa v Mexico wasn't billed to be a classic but it was one of the better games at the 2010 World Cup (I know that doesn't say much considering the dire tournament that turned out to be.)

14.13: No time to waste though as the team news from our opening game between Poland and Greece is in:

Poland v Greece
Poland: Szczesny, Piszczek, Wasilewski, Perquis, Boenisch, Murawski, Polanski, Blaszczykowski, Obraniak, Rybus, Lewandowski. Subs: Sandomierski, Wojtkowiak, Kaminski, Dudka, Matuszczyk, Wawrzyniak, Sobiech, Mierzejewski, Wolski, Grosicki, Brozek, Tyton.

Greece: Chalkias, Torosidis, Papastathopoulos, Avraam Papadopoulos, Holebas, Maniatis, Katsouranis, Karagounis, Ninis, Gekas, Samaras. Subs: Tzorvas, Tzavelas, Malezas, Kyriakos Papadopoulos, Makos, Liberopoulos, Mitroglou, Salpingidis, Fotakis, Fortounis, Fetfatzidis, Sifakis.

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

14.10: For the football fan at least, the European Championship is the biggest sporting event of the summer. Only the World Cup holds more importance but with so many strong sides saturated in this competition there is no where to hide at the Euros.

So as we prepare to witness 15 of the strongest teams from the continent and England* do battle, let me welcome you to Sportsmail's live coverage of the Euro 2012.

*(Just joking folks, COME ON ENGLAND!)

Red alert: Poland warmed up for the tournament with friendly wins over Latvia, Slovakia and Andorra

Celtic 1 St Johnstone 0: Stokes lights up low-key affair as fringe players fail to shine

Posted on May 4, 2012 by adminsports

Celtic 1 St Johnstone 0: Stokes lights up low-key affair as fringe players fail to shine

UPDATED:

00:42 GMT, 4 May 2012

Celtics' charity stopped short of
giving St Johnstone a helping hand to qualify for Europe as Neil
Lennon’s weakened champions maintained the chasm at the top of the SPL
table.

A night which began with a pre-match
concert from the Thai Tims ended with a fifth successive league win
which underscored the manager’s intention to end the season with the
foot firmly on the gas.

Happy 21st: Celtic's Anthony Stokes scores the only goal

MATCH FACTS

Celtic: Zaluska, Mark Wilson (Cha 74), Kelvin Wilson, Rogne, Izaguirre, McGeouch (Hooper 68), Wanyama, Ledley, Commons (Ibrahim 74), Bangura, Stokes. Subs Not Used: Forster, Brozek, Lustig, Blackman.

Goals: Stokes 28.

St Johnstone: Mannus, Maybury, McCracken, Anderson, Callum Davidson, Millar (Riordan 42), Morris, Adams (Haber 76), Murray Davidson,
Craig, Sheridan. Subs Not Used: Enckelman, Moon, Oyenuga, Moffat, Hutchinson.

Booked: McCracken.

Att: 50,297

Ref: Crawford Allan (Scotland).

Lennon watched his third successive game from the stand courtesy of a second touchline ban from the SFA kicking in, yet the bird’s-eye view was again to his pleasing. While he would doubtless prefer to be in the dugout, his temporary vantage point might just be growing on him.

It’s not often that pre-match entertainment can drag fans into a ground half an hour before kick-off but many in the 45,000 crowd were in place for that reason last night.

A club formed for charitable purposes 124 years ago went back to its roots to fly 42 disadvantaged children from Asia to Glasgow for a week they, and indeed those who saw them perform, will never forget.

After a pre-match concert in the centre circle, they took their place in the stand to watch a contest that, in truth, rarely set the pulse racing.

With a massive lead at the top of the table and Rangers swatted aside with ease on Sunday, Lennon was afforded a luxury rarely afforded to managers — scope for an experimental line-up in a competitive game.

Banned: Celtic's manager Neil Lennon watches from the stands

He made seven changes from the side that
started on Sunday, a selection that, in the cases of Emilio Izaguirre
and Mo Bangura, gave game time to players whose seasons have been badly
hit by injury.

Dylan McGeough, the midfielder whose stunning solo goal against St
Mirren was voted the best of the season by fans, was rewarded for his
promise with a first start while Mark Wilson, a likely departure this
summer, wore the armband.

The five-man midfield predictably shaped by Steve Lomas served to
frustrate Celtic in the early exchanges, with Murray Davidson and Jamie
Adams knocking their counterparts out of any kind of rhythm.

Crunch: St Johnstone's Jamie Adams (right) collides with Celtic's Kris Commons

When Thomas Rogne went back to front with a searching diagonal, Anthony
Stokes had no shortage of options but his attempt to pick out the
onrushing McGeough at the far post was poorly executed.

The yellow shirted-visitors forced a succession of early set-pieces but
none came close to testing the sharpness of Lukasz Zaluska, the Polish
keeper another who was enjoying a rare first-team run-out.

St Johnstone must just have been fancying their chances of taking what
would have been deemed a bonus point in their quest for Europe when they
fell behind from what, from Lomas’s perspective, was an extremely cheap
goal to lose.

McGeough fed a short corner to Kris Commons, who rolled the ball on to
Victor Wanyama. The Kenyan’s deft chip was helped on in turn by Mark
Wilson and Stokes applied the finishing touch from five yards.

Crocked: The assistant referee sits on the pitch after sustaining an injury

Bangura had been busy enough up until that point without really
threatening. Sixty seconds after the opener, he almost claimed his first
goal in a Celtic shirt by turning onto Commons’ pass and firing low.
The outstretched arm of Alan Mannus denied him his moment of joy.

Referee Crawford Allan dipped into his pocket for the first time to
caution David McCracken for tripping Stokes before Commons tried his
luck from the resulting set-piece. Mannus moved his feet quickly to
deny the midfielder.

Saints’ early promise faded the more the first half wore on. A rare
set-piece was teed up by Liam Craig 20 yards out but his normally trusty
left foot failed him as the ball arced the wrong side of Zaluska’s
post.

Lomas was forced to replace the injured Chris Millar with Derek Riordan
three minutes from the break and, as Celtic looked for any change in
formation, their defence temporarily switched off.

Flying the flag: The Thai Tims perform before the game

Jody Morris played a delicious ball in behind the back four which, if
anything, gave Murray Davidson too much time to think. Credit to
Zaluska, though for standing up big and blocking with his legs.

Celtic started the second half on the front foot. Joe Ledley’s volley
was parried by Mannus but Commons was unable to prevent his follow-up
shot from flying over. The Saints keeper then did well to keep an eye on
Commons’ free-kick as it breached the defensive wall.

Bangura was next to try his luck, turning McCracken inside out, only for his shot to rebound off the post.

Having enjoyed a lucky break, Saints almost levelled three minutes
later. Wanyama ran into trouble on the edge of his box and was thankful
that Morris’s chip drifted wide.

While the deficit remained a single goal, Saints’ heads remained up.
What a pity, from their point of view, that Cillian Sheridan hadn’t
thrown himself at Riordan’s cross with 12 minutes remaining. The target
looked to be at his mercy but he seemed to give up the ball.

Celtic thought they had doubled their lead in the closing seconds but
substitute Gary Hooper’s was offside as he tapped in fellow sub Rabiu
Ibrahim’s goal-bound effort.

There was one final change to the line-ups. Linesman Raymond Whyte
pulled up injured, forcing fourth official David Somers to replace him.

There was even some sympathetic applause for the crocked official as he made his way up the tunnel. A world first surely.

Motherwell 0 Celtic 3: Tony Watt scores two on debut

Posted on April 22, 2012 by adminsports

Motherwell 0 Celtic 3: Watt a debut! Teen ace grabs brace in stroll for champions

UPDATED:

15:27 GMT, 22 April 2012

Celtic debutant Tony Watt scored twice in three remarkable second-half minutes to help the Clydesdale Bank Premier League champions to victory over Motherwell at Fir Park.

The game was drifting when the 18-year-old striker replaced Pawel Brozek in the 59th minute but it came to life when he volleyed in a Victor Wanyama cross three minutes later from a tight angle. With the travelling support still celebrating, he drove low past Well goalkeeper Darren Randolph from the edge of the box.

Hoops wing-back Cha Du-ri headed in a third to deal a blow to the home side's Champions League aspirations, the Steelmen now only three points ahead of fourth-placed Dundee United having played the same amount of games.

Star in the making: Tony Watt (centre) is mobbed after scoring his second goal

Match facts

But this game was all about the former Airdrie United player who would have given manager Neil Lennon immense satisfaction as he sat in the stand serving the first of his two-match touchline ban for criticising referee Willie Collum after last month's Scottish Communities League Cup final defeat by Kilmarnock at Hampden.

Lennon had handed Watt a place on the bench in a much-changed line-up. Polish striker Brozek, on loan from Trabzonspor until the end of the season, made his first start while number two keeper and fellow Pole Lukasz Zaluska made a rare appearance in goals.

Full-backs Cha and Emilio Izaguirre, stopper Thomas Rogne and midfielder Wanyama also came in with Kelvin Wilson, Scott Brown, Georgios Samaras, Glenn Loovens, Fraser Forster and Mikael Lustig dropped out, with only the latter two starting on the bench.

Motherwell defender Stevie Hammell and midfielder Steve Jennings both returned from a ban while Jonathan Page and Keith Lasley were missing through suspension, as Omar Daley came in for Henrik Ojamaa, who started on the bench.

The visitors, captained for the day by striker Gary Hooper, started impressively. Midfielder Kris Commons flashed a long-distance drive wide of the target before Brozek headed a Cha cross over the bar.

The Steelmen were pinned back by the width Izaguirre and Cha were giving Celtic down the flanks.
Motherwell's first real attack came midway through the first half when a flick from burly striker Michael Higdon set winger Chris Humphrey free but his drive drew a fine save from Zaluska.

The Parkhead side still controlled possession but in a swift Fir Park counter, the Celtic keeper had to make another save from Humphrey.

However, in the 34th minute Brozek passed up on a great chance to open the scoring after Wanyama had picked him out but the Hoops striker stabbed awkwardly at the ball which trundled past Randolph's right-hand post.

Clinical: Watt fires home his second goal at Fir Park

Five minutes from the interval Celtic midfielder Ki Sung-yueng limped off to be replaced by Paddy McCourt, who moments later lost possession giving Daley the chance to test Zaluska with an angled drive.

The first half ended with Randolph busy, the keeper making a save from a well-timed volley from Commons and a more fortuitous block from Brozek after the Poland international had made space for himself in the Fir Park box.

Lennon sat in the directors' box during the interval, unable to go down to the dressing room, and he watched Motherwell start the second half with some purpose.

Four minutes after the restart, Daley set up Nicky Law whose powerful drive from the edge of the box spun wide, the midfielder's second effort moments later guided better but easily saved by Zaluska.

But Celtic soon reasserted themselves and in the 55th minute McCourt split open the Fir Park defence with a great pass to find Cha racing into the Motherwell box but the South Korean's weak cut-back saw the ball was easily scooped up Randolph.

The disappointing Brozek was replaced by Watt, before Daley was hooked for Ojamaa.
Watt then made himself an almost instant hero with the Hoops supporters when he fired Celtic ahead by returning a deep Wanyama cross back towards the goal with Randolph unable to keep it out.

Three minutes later he was set up by Joe Ledley before drilling the pass low past Randolph from the edge of the box to complete a dream debut.

Watt's timely intervention had brought the Hoops fans to life and the obvious potential for a hat-trick was in the minds of everyone in the stadium.

However, in the 82nd minute it was Cha who got Celtic's third goal, heading in a deep McCourt cross from close range.

The travelling fans were now in full voice as they chanted for Lennon, who must have watched with some satisfaction from his seat in the stand.

Rangers 3 Celtic 2: Nine-man Hoops leave it too late as title celebrations are put on ice

Posted on March 25, 2012 by adminsports

Rangers 3 Celtic 2: Nine-man Hoops leave it too late as title celebrations remain on hold

PUBLISHED:

13:57 GMT, 25 March 2012

UPDATED:

14:59 GMT, 25 March 2012

Nine-man Celtic were denied a Clydesdale Bank Premier League title party at Ibrox as Rangers claimed victory in the Old Firm clash.

Goals from Sone Aluko, Andy Little and Lee Wallace secured the win for Ally McCoist's men, as Celtic`s Cha Du-Ri and Victor Wanyama both saw red amid reports that manager Neil Lennon was also sent to the stand at half-time.

Carlos Bocanegra was also dismissed by referee Calum Murray, before Scott Brown pulled a goal back for the Hoops late on from the penalty spot and Thomas Rogne also netted in injury time.

In front: Sone Aluko celebrates scoring the opening goal for Rangers against Celtic

MATCH FACTS

Rangers:
McGregor, Goian, Bocanegra, Papac, Whittaker, McCabe (Lafferty 61),
Davis, Edu, Wallace (Kerkar 78), Aluko (Little 72), McCulloch.

Subs not used: Alexander, Bedoya, Perry, Mitchell.

Goals: Aluko 11, Little 72, Wallace 77.

Booked: Kerkar

Sent off: Bocanegra

Celtic: Forster, Cha, Rogne, Mulgrew, Matthews, Brown, Wanyama, Ki (Commons 70), Ledley, Stokes (Izaguirre 32), Samaras.

Subs not used: Zaluska, Kelvin Wilson, Brozek, McGeough, Hooper.

Goals: Brown pen 89, Rogne 90+2.

Sent off: Cha, Wanyama

Referee: Calum Murray (Scotland)

As well as delaying Celtic's title celebrations, the win also allowed Rangers to avoid the unwanted record of a fourth consecutive home defeat for the first time in their 140-year history.

Rangers made five changes from last week's defeat to Dundee United with Steven Whittaker making his first appearance since December 24 after recovering from a groin problem, while Sasa Papac shrugged off a knock.

Defensive duo Bocanegra and Dorin Goian were back from suspension and Aluko was also drafted back in.

Celtic were without James Forrest, who missed out with an ankle injury, while Gary Hooper started on the bench after being rated doubtful with a dead leg.

Rangers had the best of the chances early on and Aluko's left-footed strike in the opening minutes was blocked for a corner by Cha.

Rhys McCabe then saw his shot from distance fizz past the post.

The breakthrough came after 11 minutes when Aluko showed impressive skill to take the ball past Rogne and then Charlie Mulgrew before rifling home from 12 yards.

Tears of joy Ally McCoist celebrates as Rangers see off Celtic at Ibrox

Celtic could have been back on level terms within moments but Allan McGregor saved well from Georgios Samaras before the rebound from Anthony Stokes was deflected over the crossbar.

The Rangers goalkeeper then produced another decent save when he tipped a Stokes volley past the upright as the Hoops searched desperately for the leveller.

Goalscorer Aluko attempted to turn provider when he whipped a cross from the right into the path of Lee Wallace but the defender blasted harmlessly over.

Doubling up: Andy Little celebrates after scoring Ranger's second against Celtic

At the other end, Brown picked out Stokes at the back post but his header was comfortably gathered by McGregor.

Celtic were dealt a further blow after 29 minutes when Cha was shown a red card by referee Murray for hauling down Wallace on the edge of the box.

Stokes was sacrificed for Emilio Izaguirre as Celtic made their first change a couple of minutes later but they had top be content going into the break 1-0 behind.

Neil Lennon

Ally McCoist

Contrasting fortunes: Neil Lennon (left) and Ally McCoist endured emotional afternoons at Ibrox

Lennon was not in the dug-out for the second half, with reports claiming he was sent to the stand at half-time.

The visitors then saw their numbers depleted further when Wanyama was dismissed after 57 minutes for a challenge on Whittaker.

Aluko sent the resultant free-kick just past the post, before setting up Lee McCulloch for a shot that was tipped over by goalkeeper Fraser Forster.

Crunch: Rangers' Sasa Papac tackles Georgios Samaras during the Old Firm derby at Ibrox

Rangers made their first change when the impressive McCabe was replaced by Kyle Lafferty after 60 minutes, as the Northern Irishman made his first appearance since January 2 after recovering from a hamstring tear.

Lafferty almost enjoyed a dream return to the action when he burst through on goal and found himself one-on-one with Forster only to see his point-blank shot saved well by the goalkeeper.

But Forster was picking the ball out of the back of the net after 72 minutes.

Back in it: Carlos Bocanegra fouled Georgios Samaras in the box (above) and Scott Brown scored (below)

Back in it: Scott Brown fires home a penalty to reduce Celtic's arrears at Ibrox

He again saved a Lafferty effort but the ball broke for Andy Little – who had replaced Aluko seconds earlier – to stab home from close range.

Any hopes of a Celtic comeback were dashed when Wallace lashed home a left-foot drive six minutes later.

There was further drama with two minutes to go when Bocanegra was sent off for a foul on Samaras and Brown converted from the penalty spot.

Rogne then bulleted a header past McGregor in injury time but it was too little too late for Celtic.

Rangers v Celtic live

Posted on March 25, 2012 by adminsports

LIVE: Rangers v Celtic – follow the Old Firm action from Ibrox as it happens

UPDATED:

12:58 GMT, 25 March 2012

Follow Sportsmail's coverage of the Old Firm derby between Rangers and Celtic at Ibrox as Neil Lennon's side bid to win the Scottish Premier League title. The Gers have fallen well behind in the race for the championship this term due to falling into administration, but will be determined to at least delay the Bhoys' celebrations. Email me your thoughts on the action at dan.ripley@dailymail.co.uk or contact me on Twitter @Ripinho.

Rangers 1-0 Celtic (1pm)

Rangers: McGregor, Goian, Bocanegra,
Papac, Whittaker, McCabe, Davis, Edu, Wallace, Aluko, McCulloch.
Subs:
Alexander, Lafferty, Bedoya, Kerkar, Perry, Little, Mitchell.

Goals: Aluko 11.

Celtic: Forster, Cha, Rogne, Mulgrew,
Matthews, Brown, Wanyama, Ki, Ledley, Stokes (Izaguirre 32), Samaras.
Subs: Zaluska, Kelvin Wilson, Commons, Brozek, McGeough, Hooper.

Referee: Calum Murray (Scotland)

Click here for the live SPL table

13.57: An Old Firm derby that ticks all the right boxes so far. The Gers deservedly lead but providing 10-man Celtic can sort themselves out in the final third, this match is far from over.

Half-time: Rangers 1-0 Celtic

45+2min: Izaguirre robs Rangers of possession on the byline but his attempted cut-back is intercepted before the hosts scramble clear.

44min: That sums up the visitors in at attacking sense. After a decent passing spell, Izaguirre delivers a cross that McGregor easily claims.

41min: Some possession for Celtic, who have done well to maintain a lot of the ball in this game, but their final product has left much to be desired.

Most of that is due to some strong Rangers defending though.

38min: Celtic have resorted to pumping a few long balls into the Rangers box but McGregor looks to be in top form today. The keeper has been quick off his line to claim everything so far.

35min: The game has gone a bit scrappy since. If anything Celtic are coping better with 10 men than they did with 11 though.

32min: Here it is. Stokes is replaced by Emilio Izaguirre. Samaras will now spearhead Celtic's attack.

29min: The eventual free-kick is blocked but Celtic may need a reshuffle at the back here.

28min: RED CARD (Cha Du-ri, Celtic)

Red card too harsh Either way by the laws of the game I think Cha has to go here. Wallace was through on goal until Cha's attempt to pull him to the ground sees the midfielder need no second invitation to go down.

It's just on the edge of the box but it is a goal scoring opportunity.

27min: Scott Brown delivers a fantastic byline cross but Stokes header at the back post fails to find Samaras inside the box as Rangers clear.

26min: Celtic are starting to defend with a bit more organisation at the back now but still lack the threat going forward.

23min: Should really be 2-0 – or at least another shot on target. Aluko spots Lee Wallace running unmarked into the box but despite playing a perfect low pass into his path, the midfielder side-foots over the bar. He should really be hitting that with his laces.

21min: Apart from that three/four minute spell after the goal, Celtic have really struggled to get into this game.

Rangers on the other hand are finding great success in playing a direct ball to McCulloch. The Gers on top again.

18min: But Rangers threaten again, with Aluko dragging a shot across goal. It's not just him Celtic are struggling to deal with, but Lee McCulloch too who is winning nearly every 50/50 he competes in.

15min: Top stop again from McGregor who is at full stretch to tip wide Stokes' volley across goal – great response from Celtic.

14min: So nearly an equaliser. Georgios Samaras's burst of pace enables him to lead a counter, but after reaching the penalty box his shot is saved by Allan McGregor.

Anthony Stokes is available for the follow up but his volley into the ground is tipped over by the keeper.

First blood: Sone Aluko opened the scoring for Rangers with a superb solo effort

11min: GOAL! RANGERS 1-0 Celtic

This reminds me a lot like Ricky Villa's goal for Tottenham in the 1981 English FA Cup final.

Sone Aluko nutmegs a defender 30 yards out before charging in the box, beating two players as he cuts inside, before sliding the ball past an onrushing Fraser Forster. A deserved lead for the hosts and what a goal too.

9min: Rangers on top so far. Rhys McCabe cuts out a clearance 25 yards from goal but his low drive shorty after is comfortably wide.

6min: From OptaJoe:

1 – Despite being seven in the last five cup games, there has only been one red card in the last six league Old Firm derbies. Calm.

4min: Half-chance for Rangers. Sone Aluko picks up the ball inside the box but his snap shot is blocked by Thomas Rogne for a corner which the visitors clear.

3min: Not too much action to get us going but the atmosphere is buzzing inside the ground – it feels like a cup final.

Chased down: Rangers' Steven Davis, left, vies for the ball with Celtic's Ki Sung Yueng

Kick-off: Away we go then.

12.57: Out come the players to Tina Turner's 'Simply The Best' – I imagine both sets of fans are singing this.

12.52: Good to see Brian Laudrup in attendance for today's game. I can't help but feel Rangers could do with someone like him in their team these days…or just bring the great Dane back. The 43-year-old was different class in the late 1990s.

12.49: The away end at Ibrox looks fantastic by the way with Celtic fans waving green and white flags – they are partying already.

12.46: Celtic have won the league before at Ibrox but that was back in 1967 when they drew 2-2.

No carnage that day, in fact the match ended with players sportingly shaking hands.

Star of the show: Rangers' Neil McCann celebrates his second goal in the 1999 victory at Parkhead

12.41: You don't have to go too far back for the last time the title was decided at a rival's ground in an Old Firm Derby.

Just 1999 in fact when Rangers won 3-0 at Parkhead.

That day there were three red cards, two pitch invasions and referee Hugh Dallas was struck with a coin.

Hopefully we will only be talking about the football at full time.

12.36: Full line-ups from Ibrox:

Rangers v Celtic
Rangers: McGregor, Goian, Bocanegra, Papac, Whittaker, McCabe, Davis, Edu, Wallace, Aluko, McCulloch. Subs: Alexander, Lafferty, Bedoya, Kerkar, Perry, Little, Mitchell.

Celtic: Forster, Cha, Rogne, Mulgrew, Matthews, Brown, Wanyama, Ki, Ledley, Stokes, Samaras. Subs: Zaluska, Izaguirre, Kelvin Wilson, Commons, Brozek, McGeough, Hooper.

Referee: Calum Murray (Scotland)

Ready for battle: A Rangers fans makes his way towards Ibrox before the game with Celtic

12.31: Rangers make five changes from last week's defeat to Dundee United as they aim to prevent Celtic from claiming the victory that would allow them to clinch the Clydesdale Bank Premier League title at Ibrox.

Steven Whittaker makes his first appearance since December 24 after recovering from a groin problem, while Sasa Papac shrugs off a knock to start the Old Firm clash.

Defensive duo Carlos Bocanegra and Dorin Goian are back from suspension and Sone Aluko is also drafted back into the starting line-up.

Celtic are without James Forrest, who misses out with an ankle injury, while Gary Hooper starts on the bench after being rated doubtful with a dead leg.

12.26: It's a lovely sunny day in Glasgow with fans already filling up the ground.

For the home fans it's been a miserable end to the season after such a promising start – the club haven't won at Ibrox since the end of January.

Of course, off-pitch financial issues have not helped.

12.23: Only a win will give the title to Celtic today, a draw would leave Rangers 21 points behind with 21 to play for.

As good as lost either way, but it does prevent Celtic being crowned Scotland's top dogs at Ibrox.

12.17: Rangers starting XI:

McGregor, Goian, Bocanegra, Papac, Whittaker, McCabe, Davis, Edu, Wallace, Aluko, McCulloch.

12.10: Celtic starting XI:

Forster, Cha, Rogne, Mulgrew, Matthews, Brown, Wanyama, Ki, Ledley, Samaras, Stokes.

12.00: Barring the comeback to end all comebacks, Celtic will win the Scottish Premier League title – the only question is when

As fate has it, it could be today and on the ground of their bitter rivals Rangers. How does the fixture list throw up these sorts of games and permutations Team news on the way.

Starting on the bench: A dead leg means Gary Hooper starts on the bench for Celtic

Hearts 0 Celtic 4: Bhoys hit four to extend lead at the top of the table

Posted on February 9, 2012 by adminsports

Hearts 0 Celtic 4: Bhoys hit four to extend lead at the top of the table

Celtic stretched their lead over Rangers at the top of the Clydesdale Bank Premier League to four points with a sound thrashing of Hearts at Tynecastle.

Seconds after Stephen Elliott's second-minute header appeared to cross the line before being blocked by Celtic midfielder Joe Ledley, Hoops skipper Scott Brown drove low past Jambos goalkeeper Jamie MacDonald for the opener.

Goals from midfielder Victor Wanyama and Ledley had the points secured by the interval before striker Gary Hooper concluded the romp on the hour with a typical poacher's goal from close range.

Top Bhoys: Celtic players surround Gary Hooper as he celebrates his goal

MATCH FACTS

Hearts: MacDonald, Hamill, Webster, Zaliukas, Grainger (Skacel 64), Taouil, McGowan, Robinson (Santana 71), Mrowiec, Driver (Glen 46), Elliott.

Subs Not Used: Ridgers, Barr, Obua, Holt.
Booked: Driver, Webster, McGowan, Mrowiec.

Celtic: Forster, Matthews, Kelvin Wilson, Rogne (Majstorovic 64), Mulgrew, Forrest, Brown (Brozek 73), Wanyama, Ledley, Samaras, Hooper (Stokes 66).

Subs Not Used: Zaluska,Cha,Commons,Ki.
Booked: Mulgrew, Brown.

Goals: Brown 3, Wanyama 20, Ledley 31, Hooper 60.

Attendance: 14,787

Referee: William Collum

Neil Lennon's men extended their domestic winning run to 16 games to remain on course for the treble and on this form, they will take some stopping.

Ahead of what again turned out to be a controversial fixture, Lennon made one change, winger James Forrest replacing Kris Commons – who started on the bench along with new signing, striker Pawel Brozek.

Jambos boss Paulo Sergio made three changes with Danny Grainger, Mehdi Taouil and Andrew Driver coming in for injured David Templeton, suspended Ian Black and Rudi Skacel – who was named among the substitutes.

Hearts, facing the prospect of a winding up order next week if a tax bill is not paid to HMRC, had been the last team in Scotland to beat the Hoops, last October and who know what might have happened if they had got the first big decision of the game in their favour.

In the second minute Driver's corner from the right found Andy Webster at the back post and his header back across goal was met a couple of yards out by Elliott.

The Jambos' striker seemed certain to score but his header was blocked by Ledley, although television pictures suggested the ball was over the line before it was scrambled away by Parkhead keeper Fraser Forster.

Super Hooper: The Celtic striker celebrates

However, there was no whistle from referee Willie Collum, or flag from assistant Andy Tait, to signal a goal.

Celtic raced up the park and when the ball broke to Brown, following a cross from James Forrest, he slammed the ball past MacDonald from 12 yards for his fourth goal in four games.

There was around 30 seconds between the two incidents and with Tynecastle in uproar Brown drove over the bar as the SPL leaders threatened again.

From then on it was all too easy for Celtic.

All together now: Celtic fans see their side extend their lead at the top of the SPL

With Team GB coach Stuart Pearce watching from the main stand, there was more woe for Hearts in the 20th minute when they failed to clear properly a Charlie Mulgrew corner from the left.

Forrest returned the ball into the box and it broke for Wanyama who fired high past the helpless MacDonald.
The Gorgie men all but unravelled thereafter and in the 31st minute, after skipper Marius Zaliukas had conceded possession to Brown, they found themselves three down.

On a run: Scott Brown celebrates his goal which sees Celtic extend their unbeaten run to 16 games

With the Jambos defence all over the place, Hooper fed Georgios Samaras down the left and he skipped easily past Ryan McGowan before crossing for Ledley to head into an empty net.

Mulgrew was booked seconds before the interval for diving in the box but it was little consolation for the home fans.

Gary Glen replaced Driver at the start of the second half but a recovery looked a tall order for the Edinburgh side.

Hearts were bullish and determined but continued to make unforced errors which drew cries of frustration from their fans, who might have sensed, rightly, that number four was on its way.

Pointing to the badge: Victor Wanyama celebrates his goal

On the hour, Hooper set up Ledley and his low drive hit the far post and rebounded off Grainger for a corner.
Mulgrew fired the ball over and when Wanyama headed it back in the centre Hooper pounced to knock the ball over the line from barely a yard out.

The points were tagged, bagged and ready to go back to Glasgow.

Defender Daniel Majstorovic replaced Thomas Rogne, Anthony Stokes came on for Hooper and Poland striker Brozek made his debut in the 73rd minute when he took over from Brown.

In the 80th minute MacDonald made a good diving save from Samaras' powerful long-range drive and this time Hearts defended the corner comfortably.

However, by then it was a matter of Celtic playing out time until the final whistle ended the Jambos' misery.

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