IT was no laughing matter for Celtic as they had to grind Kilmarnock into submission before they gained three precious points in the 2-0 win at Parkhead yesterday.
However, midfield dynamo Reo Hatate enjoyed a moment of humour shortly after the turnaround and the Hoops had just claimed a second goal to add to Filipe Jota’s breakthrough strike late in a frustrating first period.
The Japanese ace burst into space on the Ayrshire side’s left flank to accept a delivery from Aaron Mooy.
SMILES BETTER…Kyogo Furuhashi and Reo Hatate celebrates Celtic’s second goal.
HAPPY NEW YEAR IN PARADISE…Reo Hatate is a joy Bhoy as he celebrates the Hoops’ second goal against Kilmarnock with team-mates Callum McGregor, Aaron Mooy, Filipe Jota and Kyogo Furuhashi.
Hatate sized up the situation in the box before whipping over a low cross to the near post where his team-mate Kyogo Furuhashi was lurking with menace. The striker went for the enticing ball at the same time as opposing defender Ash Taylor.
The next moment the sphere was speeding its way past the stranded Sam Walker and the Hoops had doubled their advantage.
The Japanese double-act were celebrating when Kyogo obviously came clean and admitted he had not got a touch. The credit lay with the Killie centre-back.
Hatate couldn’t help bursting into laughter.
On this occasion, the joke was on Kilmarnock.
The incident is worth a second look courtesy of the good folk at Celtic TV Unique Angle.
MIND THE GAP – CELTIC ROAR 12 POINTS CLEAR
