Celtic strengthens grip on top spot in Scotland

GLASGOW, Scotland (AP) Amido Balde cemented Celtic's place at the top of the Scottish Premiership on Sunday by clinching a 2-1 victory at Partick Thistle.

Georgios Samaras headed defending champion Celtic in front from Emilio Izaguirre's corner in the 32nd minute but striker Kris Doolan leveled in the 65th from close range.

Balde finished off a solo run in the 75th by sliding the ball past goalkeeper Scott Fox to put Celtic six points clear of Aberdeen having played an extra game.