CELTIC took a huge stride towards the knockout stages of the Europa League with a nail-biting 2-1 win over Romanian rivals Astra at Parkhead. 
Hoops goalkeeper Craig Gordon saved well from Seidu Yahaya with his chest and then Constantin Budesco with his foot in the first half.
And it looked as if Ronny Deila's side may have to settle for a draw as they struggled to find a way past their Group D opponents at home.
But Stefan Scepovic popped up in the 72nd minute to head home an Anthony Stokes cross from a few yards out and put the Glasgow club in front. It was the Serbian's first strike for Celtic and was cheered by the home supporters inside Celtic Park.
Stefan Johansen pounced moments later to net and looked to have sewn up an important victory for Deila's team.
But Gabriel Enache pulled one back for the visitors after a deflected Emilio Izaguirre clearance.
And the home fans endured a few anxious moments at the death before a narrow victory was secured.
The Hoops are joint top on seven points with Red Bull Salzburg, who beat Dinamo Zagreb 4-2.