Champions on verge of new record

chastening defeat to Bayern Munich and a Betfred Cup semifinal win over Hibs, Celtic exposed a gulf between first and second in the Premiership on a night when the unbeaten run was expected to come under threat. ‘We come back in the early hours from games and they want to work the next day,’ added Rodgers. ‘We’ve played well in a lot of games but there was a big focus on this game. ‘The level of football, the idea and composure to play a top-of-thetable clash against a team that’s very good, to play to that level and tactically with that quality and understanding. ‘We should have scored more but how we defended and pressed was a wonderful demonstration of football.’ Singling out scorers Dembele — in from the start instead of Leigh Griffiths — and Tierney, Rodgers added: ‘Moussa got his goals, he’s still working on his fitness. I’m at the stage where I look at him and Griff and whoever I play they’re ready. ‘KT is an incredible talent, his determination and will and desire. He played a slightly different position. His finish, playing slightly higher up, was brilliant. Then his run and cross for the goal was sensational.’ Tierney added: ‘It was a great performance. Every game is hard but it’s the way we play, the mentality of our players which makes it look easy. ‘It’s a sign of a great squad when you’ve got so many good players in every position and it makes everyone want to do better and keep their place.’