Celtics manager Brendan Rodgers has expressed disappointment with his side’s performance in their shock 3-0 loss to rivals Rangers on Thursday.
The Hoops came into the game unbeaten in the league this season, and faced an injury-hit Rangers side who have not won in the Old Firm Derby since May 2023.
They struggled to create much from the game and their attackers were shut down by a well organized Rangers defense, who stuck to coach Philippe Clement’s game plan.
Speaking after the game, the 51-year old Rodgers admitted his side were second best in the encounter and deserved to lose.
“I thought the best team won. I thought Rangers were better than us.
We made too many mistakes. When they get the first goal, it gives the stadium and everyone a lift in the game and then the second goal, we lose it from the corner and the third goal, obviously, again, we lose the ball”, the former Liverpool boss said.
The Gers took an early lead through a Ianis Hagi strike before doubling their advantage with over an hour played through Dutch defender Robin Propper.
They sealed the convincing victory through Brazilian forward Danilo and could have scored more if not for a combination of the crossbar, and brilliant saves by Celtics goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel.
“We made too many mistakes in the game and Rangers deserved to win it.
It’s not what you want and it’s not what your game plan is to play. I just felt that we were slowing the ball and then we lacked an edge when we didn’t have it”, he added.
“Too passive, not aggressive enough. All round, not a very good performance.”
The Hoops still maintain a 11-point gap over their rivals and have the chance to bounce back to form when they face St Mirren on Sunday.
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