Celtic 1 Rangers 0
Celtic got a flying start to the fortnight that will make or break their season when they deservedly beat Rangers in a typically robust Glasgow derby at Parkhead.
The victory, secured by John Hartson's 57th-minute goal, took Celtic to 75 points, back within three points of leaders Rangers. Champions Celtic have a game in hand.
The game was full of action with chances for both sides though Celtic were generally the more attacking side. Hartson had two great opportunities for Celtic, missing both, before the Welsh striker made amends midway through the second half.
A Rangers attack was broken up on the edge of the Celtic box and the ball was swiftly moved downfield. Midfielder Alan Thompson picked up Chris Sutton, who nodded down to Hartson who controlled the ball on his chest before blasting it past Stefan Klos from the edge of the box.
Celtic continued to look the more likely scorers after the goal, though goalkeeper Rob Douglas did have to make a sharp save to keep out a swerving shot by Lorenzo Amoruso a minute from time.
he result gives Martin O'Neill's side a real lift as they set about a series of huge fixtures over the next two weeks.
They face Liverpool next Thursday in the first leg of their UEFA Cup quarter-final then tackle Rangers again in the League Cup final at Hampden Park on March 16th.
Then comes the second leg against Liverpool, followed three days later by a Scottish Cup quarter-final at first division Inverness Caledonian Thistle.