Celtic close in on Aberdeen with Hamilton win

The Hoops took to the pitch at New Douglas Park knowing they could reduce the deficit behind the league leaders after they suffered a 5-1 home hammering at the hands of St Johnstone on Saturday.

However, their hopes were dealt an early blow when Gramoz Kurtaj took advantage of hesitance in the Hoops defence to slot home a fourth minute opener.

Celtic restored parity in the 26th minute when Dedryk Boyata fired past Michael McGovern from close range before Leigh Griffiths moved his side in front with a 31st minute header as Celtic returned to winning ways after two consecutive home draws.

Ronny Deila admitted his side hadn't been at their best.

"You could say we were a little bit lucky today. We were not very effective, we didn't create much and we didn't play well," the Celtic manager said.

"Today was just about hard work and staying in there to get the three points. But I'm proud of the boys as that's four times in a row we've taken three points after Europe this season."

Hamilton player-manager Martin Canning was disappointed to lose.

"We started the game really well and scored our goal but they were two disappointing goals to lose," Canning said.

"We're disappointed we didn't take something. I thought we dominated most of the second half. We had lots of half-opportunities, without really creating a good chance."

Hamilton, who had won five out of their opening nine fixtures, had got off to a perfect start when Kurtaj gave them a fourth minute lead.

A long bouncing ball caused panic in the Celtic defence and after Tyler Blackett missed a header, Kurtaj outmuscled Boyata to turn him and race in on goal and slot the ball expertly into the bottom corner past Craig Gordon.

Celtic tried to response immediately and Nir Bitton dragged a shot wide before sending another effort from 25 yards by the post.

The Hoops were looking shaky at the back and Hamilton earned a corner when Ali Crawford's poked shot was deflected out for a corner.

However, Celtic soon found themselves on level terms. Griffiths floated a free-kick to the back post where Boyata made amends for his part in the opening goal by side-footing the ball high into the net past Michael McGovern.

Hamilton barely had time to regroup before Celtic moved in front through Griffiths. The striker leapt high above the Hamilton defence to meet Saidy Janko's cross and send a looping header into the far corner of the net.

The home side looked improved after the break and came close when Kurtaj set up Grant Gillespie 25 yards out but his effort on the half-volley bounced narrowly wide.

Celtic responded as Griffiths slipped Australian international Tom Rogic in for a shot which 'keeper McGovern gathered at the second attempt.

Carlton Morris missed a golden chance to hand Hamilton a leveller in the 64th minute. Craig Gordon was at full stretch to keep out a curling Ali Crawford effort but when the ball fell at the feet of Morris a few yards out he sent his effort wide with the empty goal gaping.

Gary Mackay-Steven then pulled a shot narrowly wide in stoppage time as Celtic failed to add to their advantage.