Over 3000 Celtic fans travelled to Bologne desperate to witness another memorable European night, and their team did not disappoint.
Plagued by injuries this season, Celtic would need every player to rise to the challenge if they were to come away with anything at the Stadio Renato Dall'Ara.
From the outset Celtic appeared up for the task, pressing forward and allowing Bologne no time on the ball. These efforts were rewarded early, with Maeda intercepting a stray pass from the Bologne goalkeeper and laying it off to Hatate who converted after 6 minutes.
The ideal start was soon threatened following the sending off of the goal scorer. Two yellow cards within minutes for the Japanese midfielder saw him leave the pitch after 34 minutes. With the prospect of 60 minutes to play with only 10 men, the character of this Celtic team was put to the test.
Celtics response was clear, Auston Trusty converted a cross at the back post only 6 minutes later, giving the 10 man Celtic side a 2 goal cushion at the break.
Benjamin Nygren came on immediately after the break, with Martin O'Neill expecting a relentless attacking effort from Bologne in the second half.
As expected, Bologne made the most of the extra man, enjoying 65% of the possession and forcing the Celtic side to defend constant attacks.
Superb defending from Celtic could not prevent the inevitable, with Dallinga converting one of many chances for Bolonge just before the hour mark. A little over 10 minutes later, Rowe scored with a strike from the edge of the box to make it level. With little in the way of chances for Celtic in the second half, they absorbed constant pressure from Bologne to keep the score line at 2-2, coming away from a memorable night with the all important point.
Despite the result, Celtic fans will be delighted with the teams performance in terms of spirit and determination. In a season in which the team has been accused of lacking both, fans are hoping it will be a sign of a resurgence. With an important game against league leaders, Hearts, on Sunday followed by the vital Europa league tie with Utrecht next week, Celtic have the opportunity to turn their season around.
Standout Performances of the Night - Auston Trusty, Liam Scales, Keiran Tierney, Calum McGregor
