But Dublin youngster Mick Doyle restored Celtic's lead in the 72nd minute before Tommy Johnson wrapped up the victory with 13 minutes remaining.

Even without Larsson, there was ample amount of talent on display with Northern Ireland international Neil Lennon deservedly collecting the man of the match award following a fine performance in the centre of midfield.

Shelbourne started the game brightly and should have taken the lead after 20 minutes but Richie Baker put his shot wide.

But Celtic came more into it after that, with Didier Agathe giving Jonathan Minnock a torrid time down the right flank.

The former Hibs man twice supplied crosses from the by-line but neither Lubomir Moravcik nor Johnson could direct their shots on target.

After a foul by Owen Heary on Moravcik, the skilful midfielder took the free-kick himself from 20 yards, only to be denied by a diving save from Gareth Downey.

But Celtic eventually grabbed the lead after 52 minutes when Johnson's clever pass found Shaun Maloney in the clear. He cleverly fed the ball to McNamara to shoot home from eight yards.

The 7000 Celtic fans hardly had time to celebrate as Shelbourne were level a minute later.

A low cross from Dessie Baker was pushed out by Douglas and Brian Byrne was able to squeeze the ball home at the far post.

But Celtic continued to dominate and a 72nd minute corner from Jamie Smith allowed teenager Doyle to score with a header at the far post.

The match was all over as a contest 13 minutes from time minutes with Smith again laying on the ball for Johnson to side-foot home at the near-post.

Dessie Baker did have one late effort rebound off the woodwork. But by that time Celtic were cruising home comfortably.