The Canada defender’s shot from the edge of the container took a depraved deflection and spun into the corner, with County goalkeeper George Wickens helpless.
Celtic ought to and should have scored extra on an afternoon wherein Luis Palma was twice ignored from the spot; however, Brendan Rodgers’ aspect was a ways from their first-rate towards the Highlanders.
The win keeps Celtic’s hole over Rangers, who have a game in hand, while County live 11th.
Derek Adams might have hoped for a response after such a bad-displaying final day trip in the cup defeat to Partick Thistle; however, it took just 56 seconds for Celtic to hit the front.
Johnston allowed Fly after Liel Abada’s shot changed into blocked, and his shot crept over the line to give the hosts a dream begin.
It may have been even better just minutes later when Matt O’Riley’s shot changed into a parry into Paulo Bernardo’s route; however, the Portuguese midfielder somehow put his attempt over the bar with the aim at his mercy.
Celtic continued to press and had been given a golden opportunity to double their lead while Simon Murray tripped Callum McGregor inside the field.
However, the league leaders’ penalty woes this season persevered, as Palma’s weakness-kick became without difficulty stored through Wickens. A VAR took a look at confirmed several Ross County gamers encroaching, and a retake was ordered; however, Palma could not take advantage, along with his second effort also stored by using Wickens.
The ignored chances nearly got here lower back to haunt Celtic; however, Will Nightingale could most effectively head Yan Dhanda’s corner in opposition to the bar after Joe Hart found himself in no-man’s land.
In the second half, Celtic endured to dominate ownership; however, they struggled to open County up from open play.
The longer it stayed at 1-0, the more you sensed there was probably a sting within the tail, and the more grumbles came from the stands.
Indeed, County did have overdue probabilities to snatch a factor; however, Jordan White’s tame effort was without problems saved by means of Hart, and Josh Sims may want to simplest spoon his shot over the bar from close range.