More heartache for Rangers as Celtic win league title
Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink won the league for Celtic
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Thursday, 22, May 2008 10:14
Celtic have been crowned Scottish Premier League champions after they beat Dundee United and Rangers lost at Aberdeen.
The defending league champions headed into the final game of the season on level points with Rangers but knew that a win over Dundee would almost guarantee the title as they had a much better goal difference.
But the title hung in the balance for much of the game as both games were goalless up until the hour mark. But a 72nd header from Dutch striker Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink secured Celtic a hat-trick of SPL titles.
Celtic dominated the game from the outset, but could not find the back of the net despite creating numerous chances.
Aiden McGeady had the first good effort on goal as his shot from the edge of the box was superbly tipped over by Dundee goalkeeper Lukasz Zaluska.
Celtic went even closer to taking the lead moments later when a Barry Robson header was turned onto the bar by Zaluska.
Gordon Strachan's men into half-time goalless, but were still in pole-position to claim the title as Rangers went into the break against Aberdeen on the same scoreline.
The destination of the SPL title was confirmed inside 15 second-half minutes. First on the 63rd minute, Lee Miller gave Aberdeen the lead. Celtic then scored at Tanndice on the 72nd minute.
Vennegoor of Hesselink rose highest to powerfully head home a Paul Hartley corner, and when Darren Mackie doubled Aberdeen's lead after 77 minutes, Celtic knew the title was theirs and the travelling Hoops fans went wild in celebration.
Rangers will now have to pick themselves up for the Scottish Cup final against Queen of the South on Saturday.