Solskjær marks Molde return with Celtic scalp

• Ole Gunnar Solskjær wins first tie since being reappointed Molde coach
• Ola Kamara and Vegard Forren give hosts first-half lead
• Kris Commons replies for Celtic; Mohamed Elyounoussi responds 60 seconds later
• Celtic's Norwegian coach Ronny Deila winless in Group A
• The teams meet again at Celtic Park on 5 November

Ole Gunnar Solskjær's return as Molde coach yielded a second victory in three Group A outings for the leaders as the Norwegian champions overcame Celtic in the UEFA Europa League.

The former Manchester United forward, who won two league titles and a national cup in his first stint at the club, replaced caretaker boss Erling Moe on the eve of matchday three. Within 18 minutes on his second debut, the hosts held a two-goal advantage as Ola Kamara and Vegard Forren registered. Mohamed Elyounoussi sealed their triumph on 56 minutes, 60 seconds after Kris Commons had reduced the deficit.

The Bhoys had drawn both their games in the section, but created some decent chances in the early exchanges without testing home custodian Ethan Horvath. However, the Scottish side conceded twice in eight first-half minutes. First, Elyounoussi pounced on Dedryck Boyata's mistake in midfield before finding Kamara who slotted past Craig Gordon at the near post from close range. Moments later, Forren's left-footed volley found the bottom corner.

Vegard Forren celebrates his goal©AFP/Getty Images

Stuart Armstrong and Leigh Griffiths squandered openings for Ronny Deila's men as the visitors ended the opening half without managing an attempt on target.

Molde, unbeaten in four European home matches this term, saw their lead halved following the restart when Commons dinked past Horvath on 55 minutes. However, sixty seconds later, Elyounoussi capped off a fine display with the home team's third, the No24 converted Mattias Moström's delightful cross from the right at the back post.

Nir Bitton rattled the woodwork with an effort from distance two minutes from time before Celtic substitute Nadir Çiftçi nodded wide as Deila lost on his homecoming. Solskjær's charges held on to extend their advantage at the summit to three points.