Hoops held to a frustrating stalemate

Celtic dominate in large parts in bore draw with Rosenborg however, it was the Norwegians who in truth carved out the better of the chances.

Before a ball was kicked I feel that we collectively as Celtic fans expected a good result in this home tie. Those expectations where slightly lowered yesterday when Brendan Rodgers revealed that his side would be without a recognized striker.

Injury to Moussa Dembele and Leigh Griffiths currently serving a one game ban meant that the Celtic boss turned to Australian Midfielder Tom Rogic to lead the line. For large parts Rogic seemed to struggle with the task, not really knowing where he was supposed to be at times and often looking lost.

GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – JULY 26: Stuart Armstrong of Celtic holds his head as another Celtic Chance is missed during the UEFA Champions League Qualifying Third Round,First Leg match between Celtic and Rosenborg at Celtic Park Stadium on July 26, 2017 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Steve Welsh/Getty Images) /

Without a focal point to aim for, Rosenborg frustrated Celtic by closing gaps in the midfield causing the hoops to try to break down the stubborn Norwegian defense. Celtic got in a few times with Stuart Armstrong and Tom Rogic creating half chances that did not test the Eliteserien table toppers.

Gordon keeps it goalless

In fact it wasn’t until the 77th minute that Celtic tested the Norwegian shot stopper Andre Hansen when Armstrong forced him in to a save. In actuality it was Craig Gordon who was by far the busiest of the keepers. The Scot had to be alert on several occasions to thwart Milan Jevtovic and Anders Konradsen of the visitors before making a spectacular save from a free kick hit by Vegar Eggen Hedenstad which Gordon managed to claw over the bar.

GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – JULY 26: Craig Gordon of Celtic makes a fine save during the UEFA Champions League Qualifying Third Round,First Leg match between Celtic and Rosenborg at Celtic Park Stadium on July 26, 2017 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Steve Welsh/Getty Images) /

The visitors reminded the hoops defense on several occasions that although they did not see a lot of the ball, they posed a threat and looked dangerous when chances arose. Had it not been for the poor finishing that we have come to expect from Nicklas Bendtner throughout his career it could have been much worse.

Next: Dembele on Marseille radar

This result will leave Brendan Rodgers praying that Leigh Griffiths is fit to play in next week’s away leg. The manager has already ruled out Moussa Dembele’s involvement claiminig the French striker could be missing until September.

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