Hitham Hassan assist helps Celtic extend Scottish Premiership lead

Hitham Hassan set up Celtic’s winning goal against St Johnstone as the league leaders moved five points clear at the top of the Scottish Premiership.

Celtic secured a narrow victory in the rearranged third round fixture, with Hassan providing the decisive contribution eight minutes after half-time. The 24-year-old created the opening for team-mate Mika Power, who finished the move by sending the ball into the net in the 52nd minute.

The result takes Celtic to 18 points from six matches and increases their advantage over second-placed Rangers, who have 13 points. St Johnstone remain seventh in the table with seven points.

Hassan also thought he had scored during the match, but the effort was ruled out. The referee judged that the ball had crossed the goal line before Hassan’s team-mate Kasper Høgh played the pass that led to the finish.

Despite that disallowed goal, Hassan played a central role in Celtic’s success and continues to establish himself in the side. The victory marked his fourth consecutive start for the club.

The Egyptian joined Celtic during the summer transfer window from Spanish club Real Oviedo. Since arriving, he has been given a regular starting role, and his latest performance helped Celtic maintain their perfect record after six league matches.

Celtic’s latest win keeps them at the summit and gives them further breathing space over Rangers. Their 18-point total means they lead the Glasgow club by five points, while St Johnstone’s tally leaves them in the seventh position.

The match was ultimately decided by Power’s goal, but Hassan’s assist ensured he was directly involved in the moment that separated the teams. His disallowed effort added to his influence in an otherwise closely contested game, while Celtic’s defensive solidity allowed them to hold on to their advantage.

For St Johnstone, the defeat leaves them on seven points and unable to improve their position in the table. Celtic, meanwhile, continue to set the pace in the Scottish Premiership, with Hassan contributing to another important result as he takes on an increasingly prominent role in the team.