It would be asking a lot for Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s team to live up to the pulsating performance of Thursday when they secured a place in Seville for the Europa League Final on May 18.
They didn’t reach those heights against United in a match that carried significance for the Premiership title race. Anything other than a home win would make mathematically certain the top league title was bound for Celtic Park.
At half-time Benjamin Siegrist had been called into action and his post struck but no breakthrough for the home side. United were seeking a boost to their European ambitions themselves but saw a point denied by a second-half penalty from James Tavernier and a goal from substitute Amad Dillo.
Giovanni van Bronckhorst then used the opportunity to field some youngsters and give more rest to his first-team after an energy-sapping few days.
Here is how his players rated in the 2-0 win.
1. Jon McLaughlin - 6
Back in for Allan McGregor and rarely troubled throughout the 90minutes. Photo: Craig Foy - SNS Group
2. James Tavernier - 8
Fired the important penalty that extends the title race, mathematically, another few days. After leading an emotionally charged evening showed no signs of a hangover in a display typical of the captain. Replaced by youngster Adam Devine for final 25 minutes. Photo: Craig Foy - SNS Group
3. Connor Goldson - 7
Subdued Tony Watt and took a backseat to allow Leon King a step forward and youngster spread play well. Heart in mouth moment when backpass rolled towards empty goal but McLaughlin spared blushes on penultimate Ibrox appearance - but two finals to follow for the modern-day stalwart Photo: Craig Foy - SNS Group
4. Leon King - 7
First start and no signs of nerves. Stroked passes out from the back and untroubled by United in the first half before moving left to accommodate flurry of young changes introduced by van Bronckhorst. Photo: Alan Harvey - SNS Group