There were patches of brilliance in attack, some stodgy defence and a misfiring opposition, but Mowbray - holding the reins of the Scottish Premier League powerhouse for the first time - was more than happy with what he called a 'real good workout'.

"It was a proper football match against a highly motivated team and it was a real good test for us for the full 90 minutes," Mowbray said.

"We probably gave them too many opportunities in the first 10 minutes, but that's understandable after the journey and how quickly the game has come after landing.

"I thought we put a real good work ethic into it and a couple of real bits of quality scored us the goals and in any football match that's ultimately what counts."

An upset appeared to be on the cards early when Roar's strikers, led by youngster Robbie Kruse, controlled momentum and were able to find space in dangerous positions.

Celtic keeper Artur Boruc made a number of brilliant one-handed stops in the opening stages and Mowbray made a point to single out the Polish international for praise after the game.

"From day one, walking in the building, I can say how good a goalkeeper Artur is really," he said. "He's so assured in everything he does and he's such a big presence, and today he proved it on the pitch.

"It's no secret I think everyone knows Artur Boruc is a top, top goalkeeper and we're happy to have him."

Aside from Chris Killen's skilful brace and a miraculous header from Koki Mizuno, the other highlight for Celtic fans was no doubt the arrival of French Guiana-born star, Marc-Antoine Fortune.

Fortune, who this week signed a three-year deal with the Hoops, clearly struggled with the hurried preparation and was obviously not at his best, but Mowbray saw a lot to like in the striker's performance.

"I think he showed how strong he can be, (he showed) how well he holds the ball up, we were pretty conscious he's done no training with us really," said Mowbray.

"We signed him the day before we came so we didn't want to rush him into anything. He'll be fine, I've got no fears about his quality and he'll fit in well."

The only concern arising from the match was a possible knee injury to youngster Milan Misun, but Mowbray was optimistic it was not too serious.

He added: "I'd be more concerned if it was one of the more senior players, we go into the Champions League games hoping they'll all be playing.

"There was a concern about his knee but we're hopeful it's just a kick, there's a bit of swelling there. There was no point taking risks, that's why we got him off.

"It was an exercise to try and give everybody some game time and hopefully it's not too serious."