They say that absence makes the heart grow fonder. However, the Glasgow derby is a law onto itself and yesterday’s League Cup semi-final was no different. 

The songs of hate flowed, the abuse reverberated around the Hampden terraces with the offensive songs sung the loudest.

When it came to on-the-field matters Celtic were far superior to their lower league opponents, scoring two first half goals through Leigh Griffiths and Kris Commons to secure their place in the Scottish League Cup Final in March where they will face Dundee United, who beat Aberdeen 2-1 on Saturday.

Celtic started the game brightly, controlling possession as Rangers chased the ball. Unlike other derby games, this one just didn’t have the edge to it but it was no great surprise that after only 10 minutes on the clock Ronny Deila’s side opened the scoring.

A perfectly flighted cross from the right flank was superbly met by striker Griffiths to head home between two Rangers defenders, as keeper Steve Simonsen could only flap at fresh air.

On the stroke of half time Celtic deservedly extended their lead. Celtic’s battling spirit paid off on the edge of the Rangers box as man of the match Scott Brown teed up Commons to fire a superb strike from 20 yards out past Simonsen to send the Celtic fans delirious.

Despite dominating possession they failed to make Rangers pay, with the Championship side failing to register a single shot on goal throughout the 90 minutes.

Rangers caretaker manager Kenny McDowall was bitterly disappointed with the result, he said. “Disappointed on the goals that we gave away especially the first one certainly. 

“We set up to keep it kind of tight early on in the game, so to lose a goal in the manner that we did I’m a bit disappointed in that.

“We made a change at half time and I thought we did far better second half, just couldn’t get the goal to make it interesting. In terms of second half we done well.”

A delighted Celtic manager Deila commented: “It can’t be better, it was a very good day, it was an unbelievable atmosphere in the stadium and the players were unbelievable, focused and performed very well. I am proud of the boys. 

“We were good, organised, good discipline in the team and I am very happy with the performance. 2-0 was a fair result.”