Football
PA Sport 9y

Celtic manager Ronny Deila delighted by improved performance in Cup win

Ronny Deila claimed his Celtic side looked "more complete'' in their comfortable 3-0 Scottish League Cup win over Hearts at Parkhead to set up a home quarterfinal tie against Partick Thistle.

The Norwegian boss has had a troubled start to his time as Hoops' manager, most recently criticised when they drew 1-1 with Motherwell in their Premiership clash at the same venue last Sunday.

However, Celtic won with some comfort against the Championship leaders -- although the visitors did contribute to their own downfall.

Striker John Guidetti opened the scoring in the 23rd minute with his first goal since arriving on loan from Manchester City.

Hearts striker Osman Sow blasted his penalty over the bar in the 54th minute after he had been fouled by Celtic defender Virgil van Dijk. Two minutes later, referee Willie Collum awarded the home side a penalty when Gorgie defender Alim Ozturk clumsily fouled Guidetti -- with Kris Commons making no mistake from 12 yards.

Jambos defender Adam Eckersley put through his own net just after the hour mark to seal the win for the Premiership champions.

"It was a very good performance,'' said Deila. "I have been delighted over the last two games, I am seeing a team who works hard and works together.

"We did that on Sunday as well but what we didn't do is open Motherwell up, we were too slow, we had too few penetrative runs. Tonight we were much better and in the first half we had six very good chances - and that was against a good team with good confidence.

"So I am very pleased. I think we look much more stronger and more complete.''

Deila denied being disappointed that he had not drawn traditional rivals Rangers in the next round.

He said: "I said I would take what's coming. We have got Thistle, it will be a difficult match but it is good that we are at home.

"We love to play in front of our fans in our stadium. You have seen tonight that the players enjoyed expressing themselves in front of them.''

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