James Forrest scored his 17th of the season as Premiership champions Celtic reached the Scottish Cup final with a 3-0 thrashing of Aberdeen.
Derek McInnes was obviously disappointed as his Aberdeen side lost a controversial Scottish Cup semi-final to Celtic on Sunday. But he still found the time to praise James Forrest’s wonderous opening goal at Hampden Park, speaking to the club’s official website.
The Dons lost both Dominic Ball and Lewis Ferguson to red cards at the national stadium, while McInnes himself was sent to the stands as Neil Lennon’s sides cruised to yet another cup final.
Odsonne Edouard and Tom Rogic put themselves on the score sheet after the interval to cap a 3-0 win but Celtic were undoubtedly indebted to Forrest, who put the tie in their favour with a stunning individual goal on the stroke of half-time.
Aberdeen left-back Max Lowe described Forrest as a ‘frightening’ prospect before the game and the 27-year-old certainly lived up to expectations, racing past the Derby County loanee to slam his 17th goal of the season into the top corner.
And even McInnes was keen to praise what was a game-changing moment.
“The goal was a blow for us and it was a brilliant finish from Forrest,” said the long-serving Pittodrie boss.
Forrest has gone from a useful squad member to genuine match-winner at Celtic in the last few years and this was merely the latest example of his ability to lead by example with a moment of sublime quality.
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