Stokes double helps Celtic to win

by Tony Cuddihy , 03 November 2011

Celtic remain in contention for a place in the knockout stages of the Europa League, after they soundly beat Rennes 3-1 at Parkhead.


The match started badly for the Bhoys as Kader Mangane, unmarked from a corner, headed powerfully past Fraser Forster in the second minute.

Neil Lennon's side were initially rattled but slowly crept back into the game.

The equaliser came when James Forrest ran at the Rennes defence and fired a low shot that was palmed into the path of Anthony Stokes by Benoit Costil. The Dubliner made no mistake.

Rennes failed to cope with a long ball from Forster as the half neared its end and Stokes took a header from Georgios Samaras in his stride before shooting home.

Forster was called into action to tip a Youssouf Hadji shot over and Feret's replacement was denied by the Celtic keeper again moments later after heading towards goal at the back post.

Celtic made sure of the win when Gary Hooper - on for Forrest - challenged for the ball in midfield before finding Samaras on the wing.

The Greek's return ball was measured to perfection and Hooper completed the flowing move with a deft finish.

Rennes star Yann M'Vila was sent off late in the game for a second bookable offence.

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