Dundee United 1 Celtic 2:Celtic Gary Hooper's dramatic late strike gave Celtic a 2-1 victory over Dundee United to extend their winning run in the Scottish Premier League to eight games ahead of next week's crunch Old Firm clash with leaders Rangers.
Hooper converted a Mark Wilson cross in the 13th minute to put the visitors ahead before David Goodwillie levelled with a deflected shot just before the break.
Celtic pushed for the majority of the second half and there was some controversy when referee Dougie McDonald awarded them a penalty after United keeper Dusan Pernis had clashed with Hooper - then changed his mind to give a drop ball after consulting with assistant Steven Craven.
It looked like the match was heading for a draw but Neil Lennon's men were rewarded for their pressure with two minutes remaining when Hooper stabbed the ball in from close range, following a goalmouth scramble.
The result moves the Bhoys back level with Rangers at the top of the table, though the Gers have a better goal difference after their 4-1 victory over Motherwell on Saturday.
