Lack of firepower leaves Celtic stuttering

Celtic 0 Rosenborg 0: Celtic’s bid to reach the Champions League group stages stuttered with a goalless draw against Rosenborg in the first leg of their third-round qualifier at Parkhead.

The Hoops played without a recognised centre forward due to injury and suspension — midfielder Tom Rogic was ostensibly the furthest man in attack — and they missed a focal point in an encounter where the visiting keeper Andre Hansen had little to do.

Indeed, the Norwegian side, who needed extra-time to get past Dundalk in the previous qualifier, created the better chances and Celtic keeper Craig Gordon made several saves to give the Scottish champions, big favourites for the tie, at least a clean sheet to take into the second leg.