It was yet another Old Firm victory for Celtic today, with the Bhoys losing just once in their past 11 clashes against their biggest rivals. Goals from Paulo Bernardo and Kyogo Furuhashi meant that James Tavernier's late goal was nothing but a consolation.
All three points for Brendan Rodgers' side sent them eight points clear at the top of the table.
While Rangers do have two games in hand, Celtic remain in control and on course for a third successive Scottish Premiership title.
Rodgers' return as manager has been far from an easy ride so far and this month his side exited Europe as well as losing games against Kilmarnock and Hearts.
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Today's result meant Celtic ended the 2023 year in the best possible way, but prior to kick-off, some pundits and Scottish football fans were suggesting that Rangers could potentially upset the reigning champions in their own stadium.
Brendan Rodgers down plays pre-match pressure
Before a ball had been kicked today, some did feel that Rangers could deal Celtic's title admirations a blow due to their recent dip in form.
Speaking at his post match press conference, Brendan Rodgers reacted to suggestions that Rangers were getting 'closer' to his side.
He said:
Over my two spells here, I have worked against five Rangers managers and every time Rangers were coming, every time, at some point. So for me it's normal.
Like I said the other day, if I listened to the media and press, then we would be in constant crisis mode and constant fear of Rangers, but it's the fifth manager now. So for me, my focus is only on Celtic and concentrating very much on here and a lot of the stuff that maybe does go around, thankfully I ignore it.
Brendan Rodgers also said that his team showed that they compete with Rangers despite missing a number of players through injury.
I think we showed today that with a team that is still missing players and players that will still make the difference for us, that we're competitive and we can play football and we can compete and that's what we will continuely do.
There's no doubt Philippe (Clement) has improved Rangers. There's no mistake about that. He's come in, used his experience, used his common sense, he's set the team up well. They're competitve, they play as a team, we knew it was going to be a challenge for us , but like I said before we had to be super brave, we have to take on the challenge and that's what I've always done since I've been here.
🔊 LISTEN: “Over my two spells here I’ve worked against 5 five Rangers managers and every time Rangers were ‘coming’… every time”.
🍀 Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers reacts to suggestions Rangers were getting closer to their before today’s 2-1 win. pic.twitter.com/fIH3ZZqsKj
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The season is far from over, but a win like today will do a lot for Celtic and possibly impact the mental side of the teams also.
One thing that is clear from Brendan Rodgers' post match comments, is that he certainly doesn't fear Rangers or any resurgance that might come from them under their new manager.
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