THE Celtic players were pleased to get another 90 minutes under their belts as they beat Ross County 2-0 at home today (Sunday). And just as important as the game-time was the experience of playing in an empty Celtic Park.

That’s going to be the case in the short-term, as the new football season will kick off behind closed doors. Celtic’s opening game will be next Sunday against Hamilton Accies, and the friendly against Ross County, along with Monday’s home match against Hibernian, will be beneficial to Neil Lennon’s squad in adapting to the new playing environment.

Speaking after the game, James Forrest said: “It was different, because in the pre-season games we played in France, there were still some fans there, but it was good that all the boys got a taste of it and it’ll be the same for the other lads who didn’t play today.

“They’ll get a taste of it tomorrow against Hibs, and then we’ll be looking forward to our first league game on Sunday. It’s going to be without the fans, but we’re just going to have to deal with it.

“It’s been different, and difficult, but I think the boys have been tremendous in keeping their fitness up to speed when they came back in, and it was a case of getting football-based training. It’s been a good six weeks and we’re buzzing to be back at Celtic Park and everyone’s really looking forward to next Sunday.”

And Jeremie Frimpong, who combined well with Forrest to set up Celtic’s second goal against Ross County, converted by Mohamed ELyounoussi, added: “It was a good win for the team and we worked hard. We wanted to get a win in pre-season, which we’ve done, against a Ross County side that did well, so it was good.

“It’s good that we can rest up ahead of the game next weekend. Obviously the season starts and we can’t wait. We just want to get back at it and show the other teams what we’ve got.”

Players pleased with Paradise run-out against Ross County