Hartson header saves Bhoys
Hibernian had threatened to inflict only Celtic's second defeat of the season when Garry O'Conor fired them in front in the first half.
The home side started brightly as they went in search of their first league win under Franck Sauzee with Ecuadorian wing back Ulises de la Cruz causing the Celtic defence a lot of trouble with a series of skilful runs down the right flank.
Hibs' early dominance paid off when O'Connor fired them ahead after just 22 minutes.
O'Connor volleyed home past Rab Douglas from 12 yards out after Hartson could only head Grant Brebner's free kick into the path of the teenager inside the penalty area.
Hibs almost doubled their lead soon after when Finnish midfielder forced Douglas into a fine save with a superb long-range shot.
The unusually subdued Henrik Larsson almost drew The Bhoys level on the stroke of half-time, but the prolific Swede headed Lubomir Moravcik's corner over the crossbar from close-range.
Hibs could have doubled their lead early in the second half when Paco Luna forced his way through one-on-one with Douglas, but the Scottish international did well to palm away his chipped effort.
That stung Celtic into action and they restored parity in the 49th minute through Hartson.
The Welsh international arrived unmarked at the back post to head powerfully home Moravcik's pin-point cross from the right for his 16th goal of the season in just 23 starts.
Celtic almost stole all three points late on when Hartson forced Nick Colgan into a smart save at the near post with a nice turn and shot.
Hibs managed to hold on as Celtic pushed forward in search of a winner and the point and performance will come as much relief for Sauzee, while the draw leaves Celtic 13 points clear at the top of the table.
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