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Heroic Marciano stops Celtic

Ofir Marciano has thanked Liverpool goalkeeper Adam Bogdan for helping him hit top form following an outstanding performance, as Hibernian frustrated a Celtic team heading towards their eighth consecutive SPL title.

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The Israeli stopper, 29, produced two superb saves to keep Hibs level, first to tip away a half-volley from Olivier Ntcham before the break and then when he produced a crucial touch to divert a free-kick from Odsonne Edouard that was dipping towards the far corner of the net.

He equalled these interventions with his contributions in injury time, one to deny Edouard and another to thwart Jozo Simunovic.

Marciano recently returned to the starting XI after recovering from surgery on a finger. He admits the presence of no. 2 Adam Bogdan, who is on loan from Liverpool, has kept him on his toes.

“It is always good to have competition,” said Marciano. “I was injured in the summer.  Adam came and he did very well. I was happy I got my chance back and I am happy that I am playing well and hopefully keep doing well for the team and myself.

“I am thinking about the next game and trying to enjoy it as much as I can.”

Marciano made 120 appearances for Ashdod in Ligat Ha’Al before joining Royal Excel Mouscron in Belgium. He joined Hibs in 2016 and since returning to the first team, has helped them go six games without defeat.

He said: “Adam and I are setting higher standards and that’s the most important thing. Sometimes you need someone who can take you higher.

"Obviously you need to demand that from yourself, to  do the best you can every game and every session but when you see someone close to you who does it, obviously that reminds you what you need to do.”

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