Old Firm derby: Celtic and Rangers go head-to-head in league once again but it’s Hoops who draw first blood

CELTIC have drawn first – and second – blood in the first Old Firm league clash since April 2012 – but Rangers aren’t going down without a fight.

The Hoops won that encounter 3-0 at Celtic Park, and are hoping they can repeat the feat after summer signing Moussa Dembele gave them the lead against Rangers this afternoon.

The former Fulham man was able to head the ball into the back of the net from a corner after 34 minutes without any pressure from the opposition.

And things got even better for Dembele when he doubled his side’s advantage shortly before the first-half was brought to an end.

Celtic launched a fearsome counterattack following some strong pressure from Rangers, and Dembele was there to fire home a smart finish.

But there was a sting in the tail as Joe Garner pulled one back for the away team, with his vital strike keeping Rangers in the game on the stroke of half-time.

Brendan Rodgers will now be hoping his side don’t surrender their lead and instead extend the gap at the top of the table.

Celtic have already recorded three wins from three games, and are a point ahead of Rangers – who have played an extra match.

In the Gers’ absence from the top flight, the Hoops have managed to win five consecutive titles and are confident they can make it six in a row.