Six-goal Celtic wrap up 43rd league title

Celtic FC secured their first Scottish Premier League title since 2008 courtesy of a 6-0 victory at Kilmarnock FC.

Neil Lennon's side only needed a point to secure the Glasgow club's 43rd domestic championship, but four first-half goals ensured the outcome was never in doubt and avenged Celtic's defeat by Killie in last month's League Cup final.

Charlie Mulgrew (8) got the Hoops off to a perfect start before crossing for Glenn Loovens (17) to head in at the far post. Mulgrew (35) curled in a wonderful right-foot shot and then capped a fine individual first 45 minutes by setting up Gary Hooper. The second half was a procession for the champions elect, with Joe Ledley and Hooper scoring in the closing stages to seal a comprehensive success.

It is the third time in eight years that Celtic have won the league at Rugby Park and, having captained the Bhoys the last time they claimed the championship in Ayrshire, Lennon was delighted to lift his first title as a manager following what was his 100th competitive match in charge.

He said: "This is the greatest thing I've ever done. It's not easy winning titles and we've done it emphatically. It's a young team and we are building something that's pretty special. The players have been fantastic and they did it with style today – that really thrills me."

For Mulgrew it was a special day, his two goals and as many assists being the perfect way to mark his 200th senior appearance in club football. "I'm delighted, this is a dream come true," said the defender, released by Celtic during Gordon Strachan's tenure. "We were 15 points behind Rangers at one point, so to come back is credit to the manager."