CELTIC MANAGER Neil Lennon praised his players for winning under pressure at Motherwell yesterday.

Lying third at kick-off, the Hoops defeated the home side 2-1 at Fir Park to narrow the gap to Rangers to 12 points.

Anthony Stokes had quickly cancelled out Michael Higdon’s 11th-minute opener and with 11 minutes remaining Gary Hooper tapped in the winner.

Motherwell defender Tim Clancy was sent off at 2-1 for kicking out at Hooper.

The victory was their second this week, coming after Thursday’s 3-1 Europa League win over Rennes at Parkhead.

“On the back of what was a really physical game on Thursday to come here and win, it speaks volumes for the players,” Lennon said.

On Saturday, Australian midfielder Matt McKay played a major part in Rangers’ 3-1 win over Dundee United. McKay, making his first SPL start, set up the opening goal for Nikica Jelavic. The Croatian doubled the advantage from the penalty spot after Gregg Wylde – later sent off for a challenge on Willo Flood – was felled in the box.

Jon Daly pulled a goal back before Rangers grabbed a third through a Garry Kenneth own goal.