PARTICK THISTLE:

As it was, Celtic extended their lead with a near instant goal on their return with Forrest again the difference.

Collecting a ball in tight cover inside, he showed lovely footwork to throw Cargill off balance and earn himself half-a-yard of space and fire a shot home.

“My first hat-trick for Celtic and I am absolutely delighted with that.

“We have also got into the next round so it is a good day all-round,” said Forrest whose tally for the season now stands at 16.

“I think it was two goals in the first nine minutes and then I had that chance as well, so I was feeling good.

“I have been on two goals before and not managed to get the hattrick so I was absolutely delighted to get it today. I have to thanks Scott Sinclair especially because he did really well to help me get there with his part in the third goal.”

Still they weren’t sure with the Jags striking late to ensure a nervous finish for home fans.

It was a goal to savour for manager Alan Archibald with Connor Sammon, who he had brought on as a sub on the hour, finishing impressively from Erskine’s through ball.

Spittal looked set to do likewise when scampering clear of the Celtic defence and was through on goal but he was flagged for offside.

And the home side needed a great block by Tierney on Ryan Edwards right at the death to deny the Jags the draw.