Paul Pierce leads Boston Celtic to win over Atlanta

The Boston Celtics have levelled their playoff series against Atlanta Hawks 1-1 following a Paul Pierce-inspired 87-80 victory at the Philips Arena.

The Celtics recorded the win without point guard Rajon Rondo, who is currently serving a suspension for making contact with an official in the first match between the two sides.

Despite the end result, it looked as though Rondo's absence was having an adverse effect on Boston in the first half as they failed to handle Joe Johnson who inspired the Hawks to a lead which was as high as 11 points at one stage.

The Hawks led heading into the final quarter but Pierce carried his team home in the closing stages.

A key three-point shot from Pierce in the final seconds put the result beyond doubt as the small forward finished with 36 points and 14 rebounds.

Boston entertain Atlanta in the third game of the series on Friday with Rondo expected to return for the Celtics.