Celtic begin title defence with a win

Celtic shrugged off their poor pre-season form to begin the defence of their Bank of Scotland Premier League crown with a routine…

Celtic shrugged off their poor pre-season form to begin the defence of their Bank of Scotland Premier League crown with a routine 4-1 victory over Kilmarnock at Parkhead.

Maciej Zurawski notched the first goal of the new SPL season in the 25th minute after strike partner Kenny Miller had robbed Kilmarnock defender David Lilley and set up the Poland striker with an astute cross.

Jiri Jarosik netted his first goal for the Hoops with a 38th-minute header following good work from Miller and Mark Wilson before Shunsuke Nakamura netted a wonderful second-half free-kick.

Steven Naismith grabbed an 87th minute consolation before Zurawski put the seal on the match from close range in the closing seconds.