Kelechi Iheanacho announced himself in dramatic fashion, converting a last-minute penalty to hand Celtic a hard-fought Scottish Premiership victory over Kilmarnock at Rugby Park.
The Nigeria striker, who signed as a free agent after the summer window closed, kept his composure from the spot after VAR confirmed Lewis Mayo had handled James Forrest’s strike. Referee John Beaton’s decision silenced the home crowd and sparked wild celebrations among the traveling supporters.
It was a bitter blow for Killie, who looked set to claim at least a share of the points after David Watson’s towering header had pulled them level after Daizen Maeda’s diving effort from Marcelo Saracchi’s pinpoint cross put Celtic ahead shortly after the break.
For Kilmarnock, it was disappointment after another defeat.
The result restores Celtic to the Premiership summit on goal difference ahead of Hearts after five games, while Hibernian and St Mirren trail by seven points. Stuart Kettlewell’s side remain in eighth with four points.
