Scott McDonald's first goal in six games inspired Celtic to a 3-0 victory over Gretna at Almondvale and reduced Rangers' lead at the top of the Clydesdale Bank Premier League to three points ahead of next week's Old Firm clash at Ibrox.

Two minutes from the interval the Australian international pounced on a head-flick from Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink to drive home from close range.

In the 70th minute the big Dutchman secured the points when he headed an Aiden McGeady cross past Gretna goalkeeper Greg Fleming and Celtic substitute Georgios Samaras, on for McDonald, grabbed the third goal two minutes from the end.

Celtic have the chance to draw level on points with Rangers next week although the Ibrox side have a game in hand.

Vennegoor of Hesselink insists Celtic are now ready for the crunch Old Firm derby.

"The first half wasn't the best but we recovered in the second half and it was a good three points for the championship," he said.

"There are a lot of big games coming up and a lot of tension around the games.

"It's a very busy schedule but I'm looking forward to it.

"These are the months where the prizes are given away and I want to be part of winning the championship.

"We have to win all the games and that's what we are trying to do."

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