Steven Gerrard's Rangers secured bragging rights in Glasgow today after a 1-0 victory over a sedate Celtic at Ibrox Stadium. Despite the close scoreline, it was a poor performance devoid of creativity or cohesion from Brendan Rodgers' outfit.
Epitomising Celtic's underperformance was midfielder, Scott Brown. For the second time this month, the Hoops lost the battle in the centre of the field and ultimately lost the game. Brown was unlucky for Ryan Jack's goal as the ball squirted through his legs, nipping his heel before rolling past Craig Gordon.
Ryan Jack has just scored his first ever goal for Rangers. It's come in an Old Firm derby with a nutmeg of Scott Brown. pic.twitter.com/dw5q5k0r4B
— Mootaz Chehade (@MHChehade) December 29, 2018
However, as the game wore on Brown was heavily criticised by fans and media alike. Former Scottish international Steven Thompson accused 33-year-old of "going missing" allowing Rangers to "win the battle." It was a sentiment shared by many.
Scott Brown once again making the difference on the big occasion pic.twitter.com/RYWJYrfRJ0
— Oldfirmfacts (@Oldfirmfacts1) December 29, 2018
Scott Brown is the equivalent to the Undertaker after his streak ended
— Rikos (@Rikos67_) December 29, 2018
Scott Brown is cancelled
— Daniel Bowers (@DanielBowers95) December 29, 2018
Well done Steven Gerrard and Rangers for the 1st win in 90 minutes v Celtic since 2012 ....the best team won...Celtic worst performance of the season... work to do in January ⚽️
— Chris Sutton (@chris_sutton73) December 29, 2018
Scott Brown mistaking a drop ball for a pub fight is most amusing #OldFirm #RANCELpic.twitter.com/FsBacHpTUJ
— Gully Burrows (@gullyburrows93) December 29, 2018
It was a disappointing day all round for Brown, who was on the receiving end of a kick from Alfredo Morelos early in the game. The referee took no action.
Morelos giving Brown a swift kick in the nads. Brilliant. #RANCEL #rangers pic.twitter.com/ESmdPAFPYa
— Portman23 (@DannyRead23) December 29, 2018
Despite the result, Brendan Rodgers can take some comfort in the fact they are still top of the table on goal difference and do have a game in hand. However, this is the first time he has lost to the rivals and it was masterminded by his former Liverpool student Steven Gerrard.
