PRE_MATCH COMMENT
Had a concern that Brown was being played out of position again. Why does GS insist on moving one of our key men to play out of position once again.
BORUC ….…….6 Can’t remember him really having a save to make apart from the two shots that led to the goals.
CALDWELL ….4 Obviously decided after a good passing game against M/well he thought he could move up a rung, instead he reminded all of us of how bad a passer he can be.
KENNEDY….. 5 Was not the composed player of Sat.
McMANUS…. 6 Had very little to do apart from motivating his players..
NAYLOR….….. 6 It was a great pity that he suffered an injury which led to him being subbed at half time as he was continuing the form of Sat.
HARTLEY…. ….6 Was strolling in the first half as a midfielder and did well when replacing Naylor until he lost his man in the lead up to the first goal.
DONATI…. ….. 4 The questions that had started to be raised a couple of months ago regarding his suitability for the Scottish game have probably been answered after the Rangers and Hearts games. He does not have the heart or desire for the heat of the battle. If any proof was needed just compare him with Brown when the ball has been lost and tracking back is required.
BROWN …….. 6 Played out of position on the right wing and was not as effective as he could have been playing in his normal position. Had a great shot tipped over the bar.
McGEADY…. 7 MOM Started off in the same exciting attacking way as he had displayed against M/well but understandably his impact was lessened the longer the game went on.
JVOH ……….4 Even allowing for his lack of match sharpness he only re-affirmed what has been obvious for some time…………..he is not Celtic class.
McDONALD ……….5 …. Did not rec any real service throughout the game.
SUBS ………….
SNO..……. 3 It really would have been better if the old rules had applied, i.e. no substitutes. Sno had the two best chances and made a mess of both he then went on to be involved in both moves which led to the 2 goals. Maybe he’ll turn out to be a good continental player but he won’t be a good Scottish one. Let him go during the winter break. Was also fortunate not give away a penalty when failing to control the ball in the box.
KILLEN ……….3 It would appear that Celtic have managed to sign two big strikers who can’t challenge in the air and have no heart for any battle. A prime example was when McGeady sent over a great 50/50 ball that a Sutton/Hartson would have won in the air or put the goalie in the back of the net but Killen decided wasn’t worth the pain.
REF ………….7 Had no real impact on the game apart from pulling up McDonald for a foul at the bye-line.
THE GAME ……3 Celtic had lots of possession but so what if you can’t do anything with it?
GOALS ………. 1st Didn’t think the ball was over the line. A good strike.
2nd Started from slack play by Sno and ended with a great strike.
COMMENTS ….. 1 Thank goodness it was only a League Cup game I can live with not winning that one.
2 Another game where GS made some strange decisions, e.g. Brown out of position, not hauling Donati off and replacing him with Jarosik..
3 GS will have to come up with a system that can defeat a team that sets itself out to defend and hit on the break.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Sunday, October 28, 2007
MATCH REPORT: CELTIC 3 MOTHERWELL 0
PRE_MATCH COMMENT
Drove to the game still in a state of depression after a bad week but was pleased to hear that GS had left Donati on the bench. It might have the desired effect.
BORUC ….…….7 Made three good saves (his best came as a result of a communications mix-up between him and Naylor when he produced an amazing tip over).
CALDWELL ….…….7 In again at right back and stuck well to the task. He actually made some very good runs succeeded in threading through some great passes.
KENNEDY….. 7 I feel that each game he plays his confidence/fitness improves. He was confident on the ball and won every challenge in the air.
McMANUS…. 6 A good steady performance and he also won a lot of headers. Was unlucky not to score with an ‘2006’ header.
NAYLOR….….. 7 At last! He was back to his form of last season, especially when going fwd. Had a great run into the box in the first half setting up Killen.
HARTLEY…. ….7 His good defensive play allows Brown the time to go forward knowing that he is being covered. Hartley also managed to break forward very impressively.
NAKA…. 5 He needs a rest. Can’t complain about his effort but his impact, apart from corner kicks, was negligible. He just doesn’t like trying to shoot when he is inside the penalty area.
BROWN …….. 7 was so unlucky again not to score after a couple of typically direct runs. That’s his best position, a midfield role with the freedom to break forward.
McGEADY…. 8 An excellent 90 mins terrorising the M/well defence but what was most pleasing was his decision to release some great passes (his one to Naylor was probably the best).
KILLEN ….6 G.S. rated him MOM but I think that is a bit over the top. He won a lot of the ball in the air and at times he showed some nice footwork but he is too slow for anything other than SPL football.
McDONALD ….…….8…. MOM I think it might have been a wee while since a Celtic player has scored back-to-back hat tricks at C.P. and the wee man deserved his.
SUBS ………….
JAROSIK..……. 4
REF ………….6 It was welcome back time for Mr Dougal and amazingly GS lasted the 90 mins.
THE GAME ……7 I liked it. It was open and fast with lots of goal scoring opportunities. Celtic had a much better shape and they kept a clean sheet.
GOALS ………. 1st Another good Naka corner and a good downward header by himself.
2nd The best move of the game involving McGeady, Naylor and scored by himself.
3rd A foul on himself and a penalty well taken by himself
COMMENTS ….. 1 The only thing that mattered was getting 3 points but doing it in style lifted the depression.
Thursday, October 25, 2007
MATCH REPORT: BENFICA 1 CELTIC 0
PRE_MATCH COMMENT
Celtic should have a great chance of bringing to an end the unbelievable run of no wins in our C.L. campaigns. Benfica are not a top team and are not playing well and Celtic should be good enough to snatch a win.
Killen up front on his own does not fill me with great hope. He might be physical, he might be good in the air but he is slow and lacks the quality of touch and control of a Sutton.
BORUC ….…. 8 MOM His dive to his right to pull off a ‘Gordon Banks’ type save was world class. His other saves were just top class. There is one thing he could learn from McGregor and that is directional kicking from hand.
Don’t know how much longer Celtic will be able to hold onto Boruc if he continues these types of performance on the European stage?
CALDWELL ….…….6 Again in the position he doesn’t like and there were times that Benfica tried to exploit his weaknesses but he stood firm and played his part in a brave defensive effort. I wish he would stop trying to show us how good he is with the ball and just concentrate on being a solid defender. There were a few occasions when a simple pass would have been more beneficial than the clever one he attempted (and failed).
KENNEDY….. 7 Up until the last few minutes he had played a really solid game breaking up attacks and even finding time and confidence to surge fwd. Tiredness I think played a part in him losing his man at that crucial time.
McMANUS…. 6 There had to be some risk in playing him but thankfully he came through unscathed..
NAYLOR….….. 6 Was up against a tricky opponent but stuck to his task.
HARTLEY…. ….7 Playing in front of the defence is his best position and he showed that again to-night with a display of commitment, anticipation and skill.
JAROSIK…. 6 The guy tried for 90 mins, showed some nice touches and won a good nos of balls in the air but he is physically weak as was noticeable by the nos of times he end up on his rear end! I don’t think there is a long-term future for him at C.P.
DONATI ……5 I had really hoped that the European stage would allow him the opportunity to show off his skill but apart from a couple of fleeting moments he really did not rise above average. Was rightly substituted.
BROWN …….. 7 Had a couple of great surging runs and covered every blade of grass but I feel that he looking for a calmer more mature player alongside him. Lennon of a couple of years ago might well have been the guy
McGEADY…. 7 Another O.F. game in which he failed to have any impact. He just does not like it when the going gets tough. Was rightly substituted. At the start I thought he was going to be the man to spark the victory but then he faded, then he rored back into the game and was the Celtic player most likely to create the opening.
KILLEN ….5 We got all that you could expect form a player who’s experience at top level is measured in a Hibs jersey. He tried and sometimes he managed to hold and control the ball but overall the gulf in class was obvious. He might well turn out to be a good SPL player but Celtic quality, I doubt it.
SUBS ………….
SNO..……. 4 Replaced Donati and seemed more interested in the battle than he did on Sat. Showed that he is comfortable on the ball but did not change the way the game was heading at that time.
REF ………….6 Was McCurry like in how quickly he pulled the yellow card out but overall was much more consistent.
THE GAME ……5 In terms of quality of the football it was not a game for the connoisseurs but there was tension as Celtic battled to hold out for the draw.
GOALS ………. 1st The only real bit of class in the game. A delightful chip and excellent finish.
COMMENTS ….. 1 If Celtic had held out for a draw we might be saying that “the result is all that matters” but in truth Benfica were no great shakes and we did not attack enough.
2. I fancy Celtic to beat Benfica at home and I hope that Milan beat Shaktar away. These results would mean that the Shaktar game at C.P. would be a must win game.
PRE_MATCH COMMENT
Celtic should have a great chance of bringing to an end the unbelievable run of no wins in our C.L. campaigns. Benfica are not a top team and are not playing well and Celtic should be good enough to snatch a win.
Killen up front on his own does not fill me with great hope. He might be physical, he might be good in the air but he is slow and lacks the quality of touch and control of a Sutton.
BORUC ….…. 8 MOM His dive to his right to pull off a ‘Gordon Banks’ type save was world class. His other saves were just top class. There is one thing he could learn from McGregor and that is directional kicking from hand.
Don’t know how much longer Celtic will be able to hold onto Boruc if he continues these types of performance on the European stage?
CALDWELL ….…….6 Again in the position he doesn’t like and there were times that Benfica tried to exploit his weaknesses but he stood firm and played his part in a brave defensive effort. I wish he would stop trying to show us how good he is with the ball and just concentrate on being a solid defender. There were a few occasions when a simple pass would have been more beneficial than the clever one he attempted (and failed).
KENNEDY….. 7 Up until the last few minutes he had played a really solid game breaking up attacks and even finding time and confidence to surge fwd. Tiredness I think played a part in him losing his man at that crucial time.
McMANUS…. 6 There had to be some risk in playing him but thankfully he came through unscathed..
NAYLOR….….. 6 Was up against a tricky opponent but stuck to his task.
HARTLEY…. ….7 Playing in front of the defence is his best position and he showed that again to-night with a display of commitment, anticipation and skill.
JAROSIK…. 6 The guy tried for 90 mins, showed some nice touches and won a good nos of balls in the air but he is physically weak as was noticeable by the nos of times he end up on his rear end! I don’t think there is a long-term future for him at C.P.
DONATI ……5 I had really hoped that the European stage would allow him the opportunity to show off his skill but apart from a couple of fleeting moments he really did not rise above average. Was rightly substituted.
BROWN …….. 7 Had a couple of great surging runs and covered every blade of grass but I feel that he looking for a calmer more mature player alongside him. Lennon of a couple of years ago might well have been the guy
McGEADY…. 7 Another O.F. game in which he failed to have any impact. He just does not like it when the going gets tough. Was rightly substituted. At the start I thought he was going to be the man to spark the victory but then he faded, then he rored back into the game and was the Celtic player most likely to create the opening.
KILLEN ….5 We got all that you could expect form a player who’s experience at top level is measured in a Hibs jersey. He tried and sometimes he managed to hold and control the ball but overall the gulf in class was obvious. He might well turn out to be a good SPL player but Celtic quality, I doubt it.
SUBS ………….
SNO..……. 4 Replaced Donati and seemed more interested in the battle than he did on Sat. Showed that he is comfortable on the ball but did not change the way the game was heading at that time.
REF ………….6 Was McCurry like in how quickly he pulled the yellow card out but overall was much more consistent.
THE GAME ……5 In terms of quality of the football it was not a game for the connoisseurs but there was tension as Celtic battled to hold out for the draw.
GOALS ………. 1st The only real bit of class in the game. A delightful chip and excellent finish.
COMMENTS ….. 1 If Celtic had held out for a draw we might be saying that “the result is all that matters” but in truth Benfica were no great shakes and we did not attack enough.
2. I fancy Celtic to beat Benfica at home and I hope that Milan beat Shaktar away. These results would mean that the Shaktar game at C.P. would be a must win game.
Monday, October 22, 2007
The Stink Of Corruption
A very good article about how a good man was 'crucified' for telling the truth.
http://www.sundayherald.com/display.var.1775342.0.0.php?act=add#comments
http://www.sundayherald.com/display.var.1775342.0.0.php?act=add#comments
Saturday, October 20, 2007
MATCH REPORT; RANGERS 3 CELTIC 0
PRE_MATCH COMMENT
Was surprised that GS had gone for a left footed O’Dea at right back. Thought it would have been better to have moved Caldwell and brought Kennedy in.
The other surprise was Brown playing just behind McDonald, would have preferred Jarosik in that position with Brown in his more regular midfield role.
BORUC ….…. 5 I was right behind Boruc when Novo scored and my first thought was that he had a chance to have touched the ball around the post. Commanded his area well and don’t think he had a chance with the other two goals.
He will take a lot of media criticism for not shaking hands at the end.
Considering I rate him as the best Celtic goalkeeper in my lifetime I am amazed at how few clean sheets he has kept.
O'DEA….…….4 Felt for him playing in position he had virtually no experience but even allowing for that he should have made sure that Novo got nowhere near the ball for the first goal. Was moved back to the center of the defence after McManus was stretchered off. He does not have the pace for anywhere other than central defence.
CALDWELL. 5 He too could have made a better attempt to clear Hutton’s cross but was pretty steady. Moved to right back after McManus’s injury.
McMANUS…. 5 Will be very disappointed that he did not attack Hutton’s cross. Lost out too many times in his duel with Cousin. Would imagine that he will not make the trip to Lisbon.
NAYLOR….….. 4 W.Smith moved McCulloch to be directly up against Naylor and every clearance from McGregor was directed to McCulloch. Naylor had no chance in the air and stuck to his task well. His distribution is just not good enough for him to retain his place.
SNO…. ….3 I hope that the P.Lawell recognises that he has an asset in Sno which should be realised in the January window. I hope that G.S. realises that he does not have an asset in Sno. He is too cumbersome and careless.
JAROSIK…. 6 Missed a great opportunity to score in the second half and whilst I don’t think he had much of an impact but what I did like was his desire to keep at it. Had a great strike which produced a good save from McGregor
Should never have been booked.
DONATI ……3 My worry about Donati being too slow and not wanting to be in the heat of battle was, unfortunately, well founded. Let’s hope that he shows his class in Europe.
BROWN …….. 4 Was played in a fwd role and he had no real impact. The inexperience of not having played in an O.F. game proved too much for him to handle.
NAKAMURA. 3 Another O.F. game in which he failed to have any impact. He just does not like it when the going gets tough. Was rightly substituted.
McDONALD ….4 Rec’d very little support and did try hard but if he was offside every time he was flagged it shows a lack of footballing intelligence.
SUBS ………….
KENNEDY……. 4 Don’t know if he was negligent in the last two goals..
McGEADY…….3 He finds Hutton too difficult an opponent.
REF(McCURRY) ………….4 His performance had no effect on the game and perhaps 8 of Celtic’s bookings were justified but surely there were similar tackles by Rangers which were not punished (the two footed tackle by Hutton on McGeady surely deserved a card as did Cousin’s challenge on O’Dea?).
THE GAME ……4 As a match highlighting the improvement in Scottish football it left a lot to be desired.
GOALS ………. 1st. A very good move started by novo on the right and finished by Novo but a solid defence would have cleared.
2nd A dreadful mistake by Naka gifts Rangers possession. Ferguson scores.
3rd A timid tackle by McDonald allows Rangers possession which result in a penalty kick
COMMENTS ….. 1 G.S. lost out in the tactical battle with W.Smith and must rue his and Celtic’s failure to strengthen the defence. He allowed the situation of Rangers winning the midfield battle to carry on for too long.
2. Rangers deserved their victory but what will upset Celtic’s supporters more than anything is that Rangers showed form the start a total commitment to fight and battle for the ball. Too many Celtic players raised the white hankie.
3. I have no problem with Celtic bringing in players who are comfortable on the ball but in to-days game they need heart and pace.
4. From my position in the Broomloan Stand I did not see ay of the dreaded banners or hear chants re. Jock Stein. I sincerely hope that it was the result of moves by the Rangers Board and the decent rangers fans.
5. G.S. Now has to earn his wages and make sure that the team are well prepared for the game against Benfica. Will he go back and pick Bobo?
6. Has there ever been a Celtic match in which 9 Celtic players were booked?
7. Probably the first game this season in which Lennon was badly missed.
Was surprised that GS had gone for a left footed O’Dea at right back. Thought it would have been better to have moved Caldwell and brought Kennedy in.
The other surprise was Brown playing just behind McDonald, would have preferred Jarosik in that position with Brown in his more regular midfield role.
BORUC ….…. 5 I was right behind Boruc when Novo scored and my first thought was that he had a chance to have touched the ball around the post. Commanded his area well and don’t think he had a chance with the other two goals.
He will take a lot of media criticism for not shaking hands at the end.
Considering I rate him as the best Celtic goalkeeper in my lifetime I am amazed at how few clean sheets he has kept.
O'DEA….…….4 Felt for him playing in position he had virtually no experience but even allowing for that he should have made sure that Novo got nowhere near the ball for the first goal. Was moved back to the center of the defence after McManus was stretchered off. He does not have the pace for anywhere other than central defence.
CALDWELL. 5 He too could have made a better attempt to clear Hutton’s cross but was pretty steady. Moved to right back after McManus’s injury.
McMANUS…. 5 Will be very disappointed that he did not attack Hutton’s cross. Lost out too many times in his duel with Cousin. Would imagine that he will not make the trip to Lisbon.
NAYLOR….….. 4 W.Smith moved McCulloch to be directly up against Naylor and every clearance from McGregor was directed to McCulloch. Naylor had no chance in the air and stuck to his task well. His distribution is just not good enough for him to retain his place.
SNO…. ….3 I hope that the P.Lawell recognises that he has an asset in Sno which should be realised in the January window. I hope that G.S. realises that he does not have an asset in Sno. He is too cumbersome and careless.
JAROSIK…. 6 Missed a great opportunity to score in the second half and whilst I don’t think he had much of an impact but what I did like was his desire to keep at it. Had a great strike which produced a good save from McGregor
Should never have been booked.
DONATI ……3 My worry about Donati being too slow and not wanting to be in the heat of battle was, unfortunately, well founded. Let’s hope that he shows his class in Europe.
BROWN …….. 4 Was played in a fwd role and he had no real impact. The inexperience of not having played in an O.F. game proved too much for him to handle.
NAKAMURA. 3 Another O.F. game in which he failed to have any impact. He just does not like it when the going gets tough. Was rightly substituted.
McDONALD ….4 Rec’d very little support and did try hard but if he was offside every time he was flagged it shows a lack of footballing intelligence.
SUBS ………….
KENNEDY……. 4 Don’t know if he was negligent in the last two goals..
McGEADY…….3 He finds Hutton too difficult an opponent.
REF(McCURRY) ………….4 His performance had no effect on the game and perhaps 8 of Celtic’s bookings were justified but surely there were similar tackles by Rangers which were not punished (the two footed tackle by Hutton on McGeady surely deserved a card as did Cousin’s challenge on O’Dea?).
THE GAME ……4 As a match highlighting the improvement in Scottish football it left a lot to be desired.
GOALS ………. 1st. A very good move started by novo on the right and finished by Novo but a solid defence would have cleared.
2nd A dreadful mistake by Naka gifts Rangers possession. Ferguson scores.
3rd A timid tackle by McDonald allows Rangers possession which result in a penalty kick
COMMENTS ….. 1 G.S. lost out in the tactical battle with W.Smith and must rue his and Celtic’s failure to strengthen the defence. He allowed the situation of Rangers winning the midfield battle to carry on for too long.
2. Rangers deserved their victory but what will upset Celtic’s supporters more than anything is that Rangers showed form the start a total commitment to fight and battle for the ball. Too many Celtic players raised the white hankie.
3. I have no problem with Celtic bringing in players who are comfortable on the ball but in to-days game they need heart and pace.
4. From my position in the Broomloan Stand I did not see ay of the dreaded banners or hear chants re. Jock Stein. I sincerely hope that it was the result of moves by the Rangers Board and the decent rangers fans.
5. G.S. Now has to earn his wages and make sure that the team are well prepared for the game against Benfica. Will he go back and pick Bobo?
6. Has there ever been a Celtic match in which 9 Celtic players were booked?
7. Probably the first game this season in which Lennon was badly missed.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
John Reid - Celtic's New Chairman
There will be wide variety of views held regarding the appointment of John Reid as the next Chairman of Celtic FC, some of them based on knowledge, some on an already held bias and some who will regard it as "so what?"
I don't expect the last category will be too interested in these postings but they are worth reading in terms of getting to know the guy.
http://michaelgreenwell.wordpress.com/2007/10/09/football-and-alleged-murderers/
http://www.etims.net/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1986&Itemid=29
If I come across any pro Reid articles I will post them also but at the moment it is pretty one-sided.
I don't expect the last category will be too interested in these postings but they are worth reading in terms of getting to know the guy.
http://michaelgreenwell.wordpress.com/2007/10/09/football-and-alleged-murderers/
http://www.etims.net/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1986&Itemid=29
If I come across any pro Reid articles I will post them also but at the moment it is pretty one-sided.
Thursday, October 4, 2007
MATCH REPORT: CELTIC 2 AC MILAN 1
MATCH REPORT: CELTIC 2 AC MILAN 1
PRE_MATCH COMMENT
I can’t remember a decision by a manager re. team selection, which shocked and surprised all supporters. Jiri Jarosik who hadn’t been seen in the flesh for months was to take Naka’s place. GS must be a brave man because he will be slaughtered if the result goes the wrong way!
BORUC ….…. 7 Didn’t touch the ball until the 18th minute and had very little to do apart from turning over the bar a wicked free kick from Pirlo. At first it looked as though the ‘Hibs’ Boruc was back but looking at it more closely it is clear that the free kick took a deflection and hit the wet ground. A great save.
DOUMBE….….7 I think it was his first ever appearance at C.L. level and he took to it like a duck to water! He was comfortable on the ball and apart from the occasional tendency to over elaborate he was rock solid. Hope the injury that led to him being stretchered off is not too serious.
CALDWELL. 7 He is not a player you notice too much in a game like this but he was very solid , apart from his customary couple of poor passes and being skinned in the last few minutes, and when he moved to the full back position he was always willing to give his all for the cause. His most important contribution was to keep his shot, which led to the goal, low and on target.
McMANUS……..8 He’s only 24 and yet once again he faced some of the best forwards in the world and came out on top. Pulled off another great ‘Scotland” goal with the ball hitting him on the knee, the arm, the shin, wherever, to send Celtic into a short lived lead.
NAYLOR….….. 7 Maybe a bit high when you consider his awful passing and his naivety in putting his arms around an Italian in the box but every Celtic fan must have been so pleased to see him pick this game to return to something close to his old form.
HARTLEY…… 8 MOM A player who most of us had been so disappointed with his form has now found the position which allows him to play to the best of his abilities. He was primarily responsible for nullifying the Milan midfield.
JAROSIK…. ….7 What a night to make your comeback! He played a very sensible game making the short pass and linking up well. Was also prepared to put in the tackles when required. Whether there is a future for him at C.P. I don’t know as he is still a bit of an enigma.
DONATI ……… 6 Played a little deeper than normal and was involved in the midfield battle but I was always worried that his pre-match spouting about “showing Milan that they should never have let him go” turned out to be a bit of hot air. I doubt if there was anyone in the Milan camp wringing their hands after watching him play. Ther is no doubting his talent but he is too prone to the careless pass and his ‘fresh air’ clearance led to the penalty being awarded.
BROWN …….. 8 Was played in a more forward position and he covered every blade of grass of a sodden Celtic Park and yet he still had the composure to lay off Naka’s pass too Caldwell. The closest I’ve seen to the Bobby Collins (the wee barra) in terms of commitment and body strength.
McGEADY ….. 5 Another big stage in which he failed to sparkle. Maybe it was the conditions, maybe it was the strength of opposition but whatever it is he has to find better form for these games.
McDONALD ….. 7 Ploughed the lonely furrow up front and gave the Milan defence all sorts of problems. He tired badly in the second half and I was expecting Killen to replace him but he showed what a wee gem he is by popping up and snatching the last minute winner.
SUBS ………….
KENNEDY……. 6 Came on to replace the injured Doumbe and settled in very well making a couple of essential and decisive tackles.
KILLEN………..3 Replaced Jarosik and might have touched the ball!
.
NAKA …………. 6 Didn’t look 100% as he ran on to replace McGeady but just one touch of magic as he bamboozled the Milan defence to set up the goal was enough to make the difference.
REF(Merk) ………….4 Johan Mjallby gave an interview in which he stated “the Milan are the best in the world for intimidating refs and at simulation” and his words were to prove so prophetic. If Merk booked Brown for persistent fouling then surely he should have added a couple of Italians to his book?
How soft was the penalty?
Was also amazed that he allowed Dida to play in a strip that was almost identical to the outfield players.
THE GAME ……6 Not a classic by any means in terms of quality (maybe affected by the rain) but once again a classic in terms of atmosphere, last minute drama, etc.
COMMENTS ….. 1 G.S. got his tactics and substitutions spot on..
2. When the winning goal went in I had 10 secs of ecstatic celebrations but then I saw the clown run on and the other clown/cheat/actor fall as if shot and suddenly a flashback of the Rapid Vienna fiasco brought me to a state of despair!
3. Celtic will rightly be punished and I feel that a fine of 50k euros will suffice but how UEFA handle the Dida play acting. The good news is that the Milan famous pink sports daily has had a poll and over 85% of Milan supporters believe that Dida should be punished.
4. Celtic are back on course for reaching the last 16. I said after the Shaktar game that we will win away at Benfica and I now hope that Milan and Shaktar draw.
5. Rec’d an email from Erico (a big Celtic supporter living in Brazil) and thought you might be interested in his comments:
“WHAT A GAME! WHAT A RESULT! A HALF OF NAKA MAKES THE DIFFERENCE!
Let's start from the beginning. When I heard that Hasselink was injured I started to be worried because in spite of the fact I didn't think he is a good striker I prefer him than Killen to play in the Champions League and he was also accustomed to play alongside Mcdonald. When I heard our starting eleven team I was much more worried. As we already haven't attack to Champions league level, with only Mcdonald up front and without Naka it seemed that we would depend of luck to get a goal.
Unfortunately, my predictions was right. We were playing very well in defence but as I'm used to watch Celtic in Champions League, with no creativity or invention in midfield and no power fire up front. I thought Mcdonald a bit lost, trying to do his best as he always do but missing a player to play with him up front. Milan, as they always play, was just playing without to much interest, waiting for a mistake and like us without creativity and receiving an excellent marking from Celtic. So, we got luck and scored. So, Milan decided to play and scored too and than, ... only near to the end of the game, Gordon Strachan decided that we can fight to win the game and put Naka and Killen. Who can win the big matches? The big players. Everything started with Naka and finished with McDonald which is living a wonderful moment.
I would like to highlight the greats Nakamura and Brown (they are really top level and must be attracting interest of many big clubs), the very good player Mcdonald, and our excellent defence. In other hand, Mgeady seems to feel the pressure of the big games. I think he simply didn't play.
The Brazilian commentators were always heightening the wonderful support from the stands. I COULD FELL THE ATMOSPHERE, THE EMOTION.
What do you think can happen to Celtic because of that stupid guy who came into the pitch? Of course Dida was putting on an injury and maybe he can be punished too. I hope we don't get a severe punishment which can coast us don't playing at Celtic Park or to play without the supporters.
Now, I must go. I'm going out to celebrate in my Celtic top.
Hail, Hail,
Erico."
PRE_MATCH COMMENT
I can’t remember a decision by a manager re. team selection, which shocked and surprised all supporters. Jiri Jarosik who hadn’t been seen in the flesh for months was to take Naka’s place. GS must be a brave man because he will be slaughtered if the result goes the wrong way!
BORUC ….…. 7 Didn’t touch the ball until the 18th minute and had very little to do apart from turning over the bar a wicked free kick from Pirlo. At first it looked as though the ‘Hibs’ Boruc was back but looking at it more closely it is clear that the free kick took a deflection and hit the wet ground. A great save.
DOUMBE….….7 I think it was his first ever appearance at C.L. level and he took to it like a duck to water! He was comfortable on the ball and apart from the occasional tendency to over elaborate he was rock solid. Hope the injury that led to him being stretchered off is not too serious.
CALDWELL. 7 He is not a player you notice too much in a game like this but he was very solid , apart from his customary couple of poor passes and being skinned in the last few minutes, and when he moved to the full back position he was always willing to give his all for the cause. His most important contribution was to keep his shot, which led to the goal, low and on target.
McMANUS……..8 He’s only 24 and yet once again he faced some of the best forwards in the world and came out on top. Pulled off another great ‘Scotland” goal with the ball hitting him on the knee, the arm, the shin, wherever, to send Celtic into a short lived lead.
NAYLOR….….. 7 Maybe a bit high when you consider his awful passing and his naivety in putting his arms around an Italian in the box but every Celtic fan must have been so pleased to see him pick this game to return to something close to his old form.
HARTLEY…… 8 MOM A player who most of us had been so disappointed with his form has now found the position which allows him to play to the best of his abilities. He was primarily responsible for nullifying the Milan midfield.
JAROSIK…. ….7 What a night to make your comeback! He played a very sensible game making the short pass and linking up well. Was also prepared to put in the tackles when required. Whether there is a future for him at C.P. I don’t know as he is still a bit of an enigma.
DONATI ……… 6 Played a little deeper than normal and was involved in the midfield battle but I was always worried that his pre-match spouting about “showing Milan that they should never have let him go” turned out to be a bit of hot air. I doubt if there was anyone in the Milan camp wringing their hands after watching him play. Ther is no doubting his talent but he is too prone to the careless pass and his ‘fresh air’ clearance led to the penalty being awarded.
BROWN …….. 8 Was played in a more forward position and he covered every blade of grass of a sodden Celtic Park and yet he still had the composure to lay off Naka’s pass too Caldwell. The closest I’ve seen to the Bobby Collins (the wee barra) in terms of commitment and body strength.
McGEADY ….. 5 Another big stage in which he failed to sparkle. Maybe it was the conditions, maybe it was the strength of opposition but whatever it is he has to find better form for these games.
McDONALD ….. 7 Ploughed the lonely furrow up front and gave the Milan defence all sorts of problems. He tired badly in the second half and I was expecting Killen to replace him but he showed what a wee gem he is by popping up and snatching the last minute winner.
SUBS ………….
KENNEDY……. 6 Came on to replace the injured Doumbe and settled in very well making a couple of essential and decisive tackles.
KILLEN………..3 Replaced Jarosik and might have touched the ball!
.
NAKA …………. 6 Didn’t look 100% as he ran on to replace McGeady but just one touch of magic as he bamboozled the Milan defence to set up the goal was enough to make the difference.
REF(Merk) ………….4 Johan Mjallby gave an interview in which he stated “the Milan are the best in the world for intimidating refs and at simulation” and his words were to prove so prophetic. If Merk booked Brown for persistent fouling then surely he should have added a couple of Italians to his book?
How soft was the penalty?
Was also amazed that he allowed Dida to play in a strip that was almost identical to the outfield players.
THE GAME ……6 Not a classic by any means in terms of quality (maybe affected by the rain) but once again a classic in terms of atmosphere, last minute drama, etc.
COMMENTS ….. 1 G.S. got his tactics and substitutions spot on..
2. When the winning goal went in I had 10 secs of ecstatic celebrations but then I saw the clown run on and the other clown/cheat/actor fall as if shot and suddenly a flashback of the Rapid Vienna fiasco brought me to a state of despair!
3. Celtic will rightly be punished and I feel that a fine of 50k euros will suffice but how UEFA handle the Dida play acting. The good news is that the Milan famous pink sports daily has had a poll and over 85% of Milan supporters believe that Dida should be punished.
4. Celtic are back on course for reaching the last 16. I said after the Shaktar game that we will win away at Benfica and I now hope that Milan and Shaktar draw.
5. Rec’d an email from Erico (a big Celtic supporter living in Brazil) and thought you might be interested in his comments:
“WHAT A GAME! WHAT A RESULT! A HALF OF NAKA MAKES THE DIFFERENCE!
Let's start from the beginning. When I heard that Hasselink was injured I started to be worried because in spite of the fact I didn't think he is a good striker I prefer him than Killen to play in the Champions League and he was also accustomed to play alongside Mcdonald. When I heard our starting eleven team I was much more worried. As we already haven't attack to Champions league level, with only Mcdonald up front and without Naka it seemed that we would depend of luck to get a goal.
Unfortunately, my predictions was right. We were playing very well in defence but as I'm used to watch Celtic in Champions League, with no creativity or invention in midfield and no power fire up front. I thought Mcdonald a bit lost, trying to do his best as he always do but missing a player to play with him up front. Milan, as they always play, was just playing without to much interest, waiting for a mistake and like us without creativity and receiving an excellent marking from Celtic. So, we got luck and scored. So, Milan decided to play and scored too and than, ... only near to the end of the game, Gordon Strachan decided that we can fight to win the game and put Naka and Killen. Who can win the big matches? The big players. Everything started with Naka and finished with McDonald which is living a wonderful moment.
I would like to highlight the greats Nakamura and Brown (they are really top level and must be attracting interest of many big clubs), the very good player Mcdonald, and our excellent defence. In other hand, Mgeady seems to feel the pressure of the big games. I think he simply didn't play.
The Brazilian commentators were always heightening the wonderful support from the stands. I COULD FELL THE ATMOSPHERE, THE EMOTION.
What do you think can happen to Celtic because of that stupid guy who came into the pitch? Of course Dida was putting on an injury and maybe he can be punished too. I hope we don't get a severe punishment which can coast us don't playing at Celtic Park or to play without the supporters.
Now, I must go. I'm going out to celebrate in my Celtic top.
Hail, Hail,
Erico."
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
29/09/2007 CELTIC 3 DUNDEE UTD 0
Wasn’t surprised that GS decided not to persevere with the 3 players brought into wed team.
BORUC ….…. 7 The save he had to make was top drawer and he was back to his best.
DOUMBE….….6 Good solid game and it was encouraging to see, the longer the game went on, the better his performance became.
CALDWELL. 6 I know he’s confident in his own ability to play the ball out of defence but there are times he overestimates this ability.
McMANUS……..7 Once again he made some great blocks and his growing maturity is good news for Celtic. He’ll be the Celtic Captain for many years to come.
NAYLOR….….. 4 The poor laddie has lost it. GS should put him out of his misery.
HARTLEY…… 7 Is making a very strong case for GS to persevere with him in the holding role in front of the back 4.
DONATI ……… 4 Another poor game but mainly down to his less than committed efforts on behalf of the team. He has the skill but does he have the heart? Played a lovely pass to McGeady in the build up to the first goal.
BROWN …….. 7 For the first 60 mins he just made sure that he covered every blade of grass and then in the last 30 mins he displayed more of the ‘cheeky chappie’ approach to the game. Had a great strong run through the heart of the Dundee defence to set up McDonald for the 2nd? goal.
McGEADY ….. 8 Was very instrumental in setting up the first and 3rd? goal and the longer the game went on the more scintillating his display. How we need this type of performance on Wed.
McDONALD ……….. 8 MOM A hat-trick and an overall performance which gives great optimism for the future.
JVOH…. ……….4 Was not disappointed to see him go off injured in the first half as once again his performance made we hope that he has only signed a 3 year contract.
SUBS …………. KILLEN………..3 This was the opportunity to show the supporters what he could bring to the team. Unfortunately, he missed a sitter, missed another good chance, showed that he has little pace.
SNO …………. 3 Not convinced that he will make it.
REF(Dougie McDonald) ………….2 A numpty of the first degree who was completely out of his depth.
THE GAME ……6 The game was hanging in the balance until the second goal and after that Celtic showed a marked improvement.
COMMENTS ….. 1 Thankfully the proposal that John Reid is to become our next Chairman did not rear its head during the game but there were quite a few graffiti messages around the ground…………….none of them complimentary.
2. I hope that Naka is back for the Milan game. I hope that Donati raises his game. I hope the ref awards us a dodgy penalty. I hope that GS goes with McDonald and Magic up front and I hope that McGeady is wrapped in cotton wool. A minimum of a draw is a must.
3. We are back at the top of the league and we have
the highest goals for and the lowest goals against
in the League.
4. The worry I have for Wed night is the amount of
space we present in midfield.
BORUC ….…. 7 The save he had to make was top drawer and he was back to his best.
DOUMBE….….6 Good solid game and it was encouraging to see, the longer the game went on, the better his performance became.
CALDWELL. 6 I know he’s confident in his own ability to play the ball out of defence but there are times he overestimates this ability.
McMANUS……..7 Once again he made some great blocks and his growing maturity is good news for Celtic. He’ll be the Celtic Captain for many years to come.
NAYLOR….….. 4 The poor laddie has lost it. GS should put him out of his misery.
HARTLEY…… 7 Is making a very strong case for GS to persevere with him in the holding role in front of the back 4.
DONATI ……… 4 Another poor game but mainly down to his less than committed efforts on behalf of the team. He has the skill but does he have the heart? Played a lovely pass to McGeady in the build up to the first goal.
BROWN …….. 7 For the first 60 mins he just made sure that he covered every blade of grass and then in the last 30 mins he displayed more of the ‘cheeky chappie’ approach to the game. Had a great strong run through the heart of the Dundee defence to set up McDonald for the 2nd? goal.
McGEADY ….. 8 Was very instrumental in setting up the first and 3rd? goal and the longer the game went on the more scintillating his display. How we need this type of performance on Wed.
McDONALD ……….. 8 MOM A hat-trick and an overall performance which gives great optimism for the future.
JVOH…. ……….4 Was not disappointed to see him go off injured in the first half as once again his performance made we hope that he has only signed a 3 year contract.
SUBS …………. KILLEN………..3 This was the opportunity to show the supporters what he could bring to the team. Unfortunately, he missed a sitter, missed another good chance, showed that he has little pace.
SNO …………. 3 Not convinced that he will make it.
REF(Dougie McDonald) ………….2 A numpty of the first degree who was completely out of his depth.
THE GAME ……6 The game was hanging in the balance until the second goal and after that Celtic showed a marked improvement.
COMMENTS ….. 1 Thankfully the proposal that John Reid is to become our next Chairman did not rear its head during the game but there were quite a few graffiti messages around the ground…………….none of them complimentary.
2. I hope that Naka is back for the Milan game. I hope that Donati raises his game. I hope the ref awards us a dodgy penalty. I hope that GS goes with McDonald and Magic up front and I hope that McGeady is wrapped in cotton wool. A minimum of a draw is a must.
3. We are back at the top of the league and we have
the highest goals for and the lowest goals against
in the League.
4. The worry I have for Wed night is the amount of
space we present in midfield.
26/09/2007 DUNDEE 1 CELTIC 2
Thank goodness that at least 3 of Sunday’s team were injured, at least it forced GS to try some others but it’s a great indicictment of either, how weak we are in full back replacements, or, how reluctant GS is to give youth a chance. I mean Caldwell at right back…………..forget it.
BORUC ….…. 6 Had some really top class saves but he also flapped at quite a few cross balls and looked very shaky in the air..
CALDWELL….6 Tried very hard and put in a lot of effort but a wing back he will never be.
KENNEDY…. 7 Was good to see him back and he performed well in difficult circumstances. Dundee’s centre forward is one hell of a big guy and physical as well but Kennedy stuck to his task.
McMANUS……..7 He also did well against the big guy and continues to show that he is a great last ditch blocker.
NAYLOR….….. 5 On occasions you thought “right, that’s him back” and then he would make you realise that he needs a rest.
SNO………. … 4 He hasn’t realised yet that in Scottish football you are just not allowed time on the ball. I would prefer to see young Bjarnson given the chance.
DONATI ….. 4 Ther were times you could see his real class but for long periods in the game you struggled to notice him being effective although he did supply McDonald with a lovely pass for the second goal.
BROWN …….. 6 Was very influential in the first 30 mins but then tended to fade a little.
RIORDAN ….. 5 Supplied a great cross for the first goal but he missed, what could have been, a decisive penalty (he hit it at half the pace of the one he slotted away so well against Spartak). Doesn’t defend as much as McGeady but he is a talented young player.
McDONALD ……….. 7 MOM Had a particularly good first half during which he scored an excellent headed goal and then in the second half set up JVOH’s goal. He’s not as fast as Millar but he has better feet and I’m sure will have a better goal scoring record.
JVOH…. ……….5 Scored the winning goal but I wondered if any keen football follower who knew nothing about his history would deduce that he is in fact an internationalist and one of Celtic’s expensive buys? I doubt it!
SUBS …………. None, which was a shame.
REF ………….5
THE GAME ……7 It was a good Cup game with fast moving football, mistakes and goalmouth incidents but not too impressed with Celtic’s overall play.
COMMENTS ….. 1 It’s a long time since I have seen Celtic concede so many fouls (approx 24).
2. Against the tallest side in Scottish football celtic were always going to have problems but that aside they let the opposition back into the game and at the end all the pressure was coming from Dundee
BORUC ….…. 6 Had some really top class saves but he also flapped at quite a few cross balls and looked very shaky in the air..
CALDWELL….6 Tried very hard and put in a lot of effort but a wing back he will never be.
KENNEDY…. 7 Was good to see him back and he performed well in difficult circumstances. Dundee’s centre forward is one hell of a big guy and physical as well but Kennedy stuck to his task.
McMANUS……..7 He also did well against the big guy and continues to show that he is a great last ditch blocker.
NAYLOR….….. 5 On occasions you thought “right, that’s him back” and then he would make you realise that he needs a rest.
SNO………. … 4 He hasn’t realised yet that in Scottish football you are just not allowed time on the ball. I would prefer to see young Bjarnson given the chance.
DONATI ….. 4 Ther were times you could see his real class but for long periods in the game you struggled to notice him being effective although he did supply McDonald with a lovely pass for the second goal.
BROWN …….. 6 Was very influential in the first 30 mins but then tended to fade a little.
RIORDAN ….. 5 Supplied a great cross for the first goal but he missed, what could have been, a decisive penalty (he hit it at half the pace of the one he slotted away so well against Spartak). Doesn’t defend as much as McGeady but he is a talented young player.
McDONALD ……….. 7 MOM Had a particularly good first half during which he scored an excellent headed goal and then in the second half set up JVOH’s goal. He’s not as fast as Millar but he has better feet and I’m sure will have a better goal scoring record.
JVOH…. ……….5 Scored the winning goal but I wondered if any keen football follower who knew nothing about his history would deduce that he is in fact an internationalist and one of Celtic’s expensive buys? I doubt it!
SUBS …………. None, which was a shame.
REF ………….5
THE GAME ……7 It was a good Cup game with fast moving football, mistakes and goalmouth incidents but not too impressed with Celtic’s overall play.
COMMENTS ….. 1 It’s a long time since I have seen Celtic concede so many fouls (approx 24).
2. Against the tallest side in Scottish football celtic were always going to have problems but that aside they let the opposition back into the game and at the end all the pressure was coming from Dundee
18/09/2007 SHAKTAR 2 CELTIC 0
The nearer we got to the kick off the more worried I became listening to the 40m that Shaktar had spent. Didn’t have a problem with Hartley coming in to the team but I would have played him in his Scotland position and left JVOH out.
BORUC ….…. 7 Had no chance with either goal but continued to show his real class with several great stops.
WILSON….…. 4 There I was thinking that he was back to his best but unfortunately the better the class of opposition the less assured he is. Perhaps he’s just a good SPL player.
CALDWELL…. 6 Was part of a defence that was torn apart in the first 20 mins but he stuck to his task and had one great saving clearance.
McMANUS……..6 Was directly culpable for setting up the first goal with an uncharacteristic first touch but to his credit he did not let his head drop and played well.
NAYLOR….….. 4 I don’t think we can go on much longer waiting for him to rediscover his form. He couldn’t cope with the pace and skill of the opposition.
NAKAMURA … 3 The poorest game he has had in the Hoops and was rightly replaced by McGeady.
DONATI ….. 4 Was invisible for large parts of the game although when he did get on the ball you could see his class.
BROWN …….. 5 Ironic that he chose this game to have his poorest game since coming to Celtic and was very fortunate to stay on the park.
HARTLEY…. 7 MOM Had no impact on the game until he was rightly moved into a central position playing just in front of the back four and he once again showed that he can play there with great effect.
McDONALD ……….. 6 Was the only player in those awful first 20 mins who showed any ability and continued to strive to make a mark but he found it so difficult.
JVOH…. ……….5 Had one great attempt which just missed the target and had another good opportunity but failed to get his header on target. Really we should be seeing a greater impact from an ‘international’ player.
SUBS ………….
McGEADY..….. 5 Came on tried hard but really achieved very little.
KILLEN . … 5 Made one good opportunity but that apart he still failed to show that he has the quality to enhance the team.
MAGIC…. …..4 Was on for too short a time to impress.
REF ………….7
THE GAME ……6 It wasn't dirty, it was fast, it was skillful and it had a great goal. Unfortunately Celtic did not contribute much to it.
COMMENTS ….. 1. I listened to GS’s pre-match interview and listened to him saying that he would have to approach this game with different tactics to the Spartak game as Shaktar play a different game to Shaktar. It’s a pity he was not true to his word!
2. Celtic’s big problem was in the method they started the game. Even before a goal had been scored you could see that this was not a confident Celtic team. I doubt if they struck more than 3 passes to-gether in the first 15 mins.
3. It is unbelievable that after 14 away games in the C.L Celtic have still not won a single game! I’ll stick my neck out and say that it will happen in Lisbon t.y.
4. A few Celtic supporters (inc. myself) expressed disappointment that Celtic had not strengthened the team during August, it’s nights like to-night that we may well live to regret the inactivity. Our full back position has been screaming out for competition to be brought in.
We must hope that Milan win all their games with the exception of ours and that Benfica and Shaktar draw their games. Celtic of course will have to win their home games but if they do then we’re through…… . it’s that easy!!!
BORUC ….…. 7 Had no chance with either goal but continued to show his real class with several great stops.
WILSON….…. 4 There I was thinking that he was back to his best but unfortunately the better the class of opposition the less assured he is. Perhaps he’s just a good SPL player.
CALDWELL…. 6 Was part of a defence that was torn apart in the first 20 mins but he stuck to his task and had one great saving clearance.
McMANUS……..6 Was directly culpable for setting up the first goal with an uncharacteristic first touch but to his credit he did not let his head drop and played well.
NAYLOR….….. 4 I don’t think we can go on much longer waiting for him to rediscover his form. He couldn’t cope with the pace and skill of the opposition.
NAKAMURA … 3 The poorest game he has had in the Hoops and was rightly replaced by McGeady.
DONATI ….. 4 Was invisible for large parts of the game although when he did get on the ball you could see his class.
BROWN …….. 5 Ironic that he chose this game to have his poorest game since coming to Celtic and was very fortunate to stay on the park.
HARTLEY…. 7 MOM Had no impact on the game until he was rightly moved into a central position playing just in front of the back four and he once again showed that he can play there with great effect.
McDONALD ……….. 6 Was the only player in those awful first 20 mins who showed any ability and continued to strive to make a mark but he found it so difficult.
JVOH…. ……….5 Had one great attempt which just missed the target and had another good opportunity but failed to get his header on target. Really we should be seeing a greater impact from an ‘international’ player.
SUBS ………….
McGEADY..….. 5 Came on tried hard but really achieved very little.
KILLEN . … 5 Made one good opportunity but that apart he still failed to show that he has the quality to enhance the team.
MAGIC…. …..4 Was on for too short a time to impress.
REF ………….7
THE GAME ……6 It wasn't dirty, it was fast, it was skillful and it had a great goal. Unfortunately Celtic did not contribute much to it.
COMMENTS ….. 1. I listened to GS’s pre-match interview and listened to him saying that he would have to approach this game with different tactics to the Spartak game as Shaktar play a different game to Shaktar. It’s a pity he was not true to his word!
2. Celtic’s big problem was in the method they started the game. Even before a goal had been scored you could see that this was not a confident Celtic team. I doubt if they struck more than 3 passes to-gether in the first 15 mins.
3. It is unbelievable that after 14 away games in the C.L Celtic have still not won a single game! I’ll stick my neck out and say that it will happen in Lisbon t.y.
4. A few Celtic supporters (inc. myself) expressed disappointment that Celtic had not strengthened the team during August, it’s nights like to-night that we may well live to regret the inactivity. Our full back position has been screaming out for competition to be brought in.
We must hope that Milan win all their games with the exception of ours and that Benfica and Shaktar draw their games. Celtic of course will have to win their home games but if they do then we’re through…… . it’s that easy!!!
15/09/2007 CELTIC 5 ICT 0
What a wonderful, exciting, nerve wracking 10 days with great results from Glasgow (2), Paris and Edinburgh. Was a bit surprised that Riordan was not given another start.
BORUC….…. 8 His save in the first half was not only world class but also vital at that stage of the match. Had another couple of good stops in the second half.
WILSON….…. 7 So pleased that he has stuck at it to recover from his poor start in the close season. Is now coming back to the form he had when he first came and we all thought “What a steal!”
CALDWELL…. 6 Steady enough but allowed his concentration to drop in the second half and was lucky not to concede a couple of goals.
McMANUS……..7 Another rock solid performance
NAYLOR….….. 5 Everyone was willing him to start off the game well so that his confidence would return but his first few touches just confirmed how much his confidence has fallen.
NAKAMURA … 8 What amazes me this season about Naka is the increased commitment and work rate. He did not have a normal break in the close season and yet here he was running all over the place for the full 90 mins displaying all his exquisite skills and capping it off with a wonderful ‘Faddy’ like goal.
DONATI ….. 7 If he was bought as a replacement for Lenny, which I doubt, he has now scored as many goals already as Lennon managed in all his time in The Hoops. Scored another very calm, cheeky goal and made some great 50yd crossfield passes.
BROWN …….. 6 A quieter game for ‘Broonie’ but still had time to show some lovely touches.
McGEADY ……..8 MOM In the first half he enthralled us and frustrated us but in the second he just ran amok. I wonder if his display has given GS something to think about re. the tactics for the Spartak game?
McDONALD …… 6 Missed two very good opportunities but he also set up JVOH for his second goal and displayed great footwork to create the o.g.
JVOH…. ……….6 I’ve mentioned before that he spends too much time out of the penalty area and to-day he did what he’s good at, i.e. poached 2 goals. Apart from that his contribution is still unacceptable.
SUBS ………….
SNO…...….. 5 Had 30 mins to impress and he failed to do so. I would prefer the young Icelandic player to be now given his chance.!
KILLEN … 5 So far he looks no better than a ‘bench warmer���
McGOVERN…. …..5 Not on long enough to have any real impact but he will be delighted to have made an appearance.
REF ………….5 Luckily did not have to make any major decisions………….he would have got them wrong!
THE GAME ……7 I.C.T. had a good go at Celtic and could easily have score 4 goals but Celtic had another gear to move up and I’m sure they would also have scored a few more.
COMMENTS ….. 1. A good work out and the impressive goal machine keeps on rolling. Let’s hope it’s not side tracked on Tuesday.
2. Can anyone explain to me why Naka was the only celtic player wearing a Celtic top without the Carling logo?.
3. Our second top goalscorer this season is now Mr O.G.!
4. Thought GS gave the perfect riposte when asked about his view on resting player, “Around about April, May I might rest a few”.
For those older readers who have often wondered why Celtic did not win a second European Cup this link might be of interest: http://stateofthegame.co.uk/2006/10/20/celtic-1970-european-cup-final-v-feyenoord-the-dream-ends/
BORUC….…. 8 His save in the first half was not only world class but also vital at that stage of the match. Had another couple of good stops in the second half.
WILSON….…. 7 So pleased that he has stuck at it to recover from his poor start in the close season. Is now coming back to the form he had when he first came and we all thought “What a steal!”
CALDWELL…. 6 Steady enough but allowed his concentration to drop in the second half and was lucky not to concede a couple of goals.
McMANUS……..7 Another rock solid performance
NAYLOR….….. 5 Everyone was willing him to start off the game well so that his confidence would return but his first few touches just confirmed how much his confidence has fallen.
NAKAMURA … 8 What amazes me this season about Naka is the increased commitment and work rate. He did not have a normal break in the close season and yet here he was running all over the place for the full 90 mins displaying all his exquisite skills and capping it off with a wonderful ‘Faddy’ like goal.
DONATI ….. 7 If he was bought as a replacement for Lenny, which I doubt, he has now scored as many goals already as Lennon managed in all his time in The Hoops. Scored another very calm, cheeky goal and made some great 50yd crossfield passes.
BROWN …….. 6 A quieter game for ‘Broonie’ but still had time to show some lovely touches.
McGEADY ……..8 MOM In the first half he enthralled us and frustrated us but in the second he just ran amok. I wonder if his display has given GS something to think about re. the tactics for the Spartak game?
McDONALD …… 6 Missed two very good opportunities but he also set up JVOH for his second goal and displayed great footwork to create the o.g.
JVOH…. ……….6 I’ve mentioned before that he spends too much time out of the penalty area and to-day he did what he’s good at, i.e. poached 2 goals. Apart from that his contribution is still unacceptable.
SUBS ………….
SNO…...….. 5 Had 30 mins to impress and he failed to do so. I would prefer the young Icelandic player to be now given his chance.!
KILLEN … 5 So far he looks no better than a ‘bench warmer���
McGOVERN…. …..5 Not on long enough to have any real impact but he will be delighted to have made an appearance.
REF ………….5 Luckily did not have to make any major decisions………….he would have got them wrong!
THE GAME ……7 I.C.T. had a good go at Celtic and could easily have score 4 goals but Celtic had another gear to move up and I’m sure they would also have scored a few more.
COMMENTS ….. 1. A good work out and the impressive goal machine keeps on rolling. Let’s hope it’s not side tracked on Tuesday.
2. Can anyone explain to me why Naka was the only celtic player wearing a Celtic top without the Carling logo?.
3. Our second top goalscorer this season is now Mr O.G.!
4. Thought GS gave the perfect riposte when asked about his view on resting player, “Around about April, May I might rest a few”.
For those older readers who have often wondered why Celtic did not win a second European Cup this link might be of interest: http://stateofthegame.co.uk/2006/10/20/celtic-1970-european-cup-final-v-feyenoord-the-dream-ends/
02/09/2007 ST MIRREN 0 CELTIC 5
After all the thrills of Wed. night it was back to the defence of our title and I was glad to see that GS had the sense to rest some of the players. Ironically, Naylor wasn't given the opportunity, which highlights just how short of good cover Celtic have for his position, which begs the question "why did Celtic sign Doumbe?"
BORUC….…. 7 Our hero had very little to do and had no chance with the best goal of the game.
WILSON….…. 8 Thought he played very well and if he keeps up this standard then he will be first pick in the position.
CALDWELL…. 7 They say that if you don't notice a defender then he had a good game and this applied to Caldwell to-day. I had forgotten he was playing until he stepped in and broke up a St Mirren attack. Maybe he too is making it difficult for GS not to pick him?
McMANUS……..8 I thought GS's remarks on Frid summed up McManus's performance this season perfectly "Mick didn't know whether to play a Captain's role or a defender's role. I told him just to be a good defender and that would make him a good Captain". That is precisely what McManus has been doing.He strolled through this game.
NAYLOR….….. 6 He was better than he has been but there is something not quite right in his body language. Maybe it is just a loss of confidence.
HARTLEY... … 7 Didn't do much to impress in the first half but when he moved inside he was a different player. He too is showing improved form compared to last year.
SNO.......... ….. 5 Only played for the first 45 mins (it seems he wasn't feeling well) but he failed to make a real impact. His physique is very impressive, he just still has that tendency to be a bit too lackadaisical.
BROWN …….. 9...MOM Considering what Wed night must have taken out of him to-days display was just great. His ability to burst fwd from a standing start and brush aside opponents is top class and it is a long, long time that I have seen a Scottish player with such quick feet. Oh, by the way, he is also a wee bit gallus!!!
RIORDAN…. ……6 May have wanted to see him make more of an impact but overall he showed that there would be no problem in starting with him. He gives a different quality than McGeady insofar as he is much more ready to make a telling pass but does not have Aiden's ability to beat a man.
McDONALD ……6 2 goals in 2 games isn't bad and his goal to-day was a perfect example of how hard he is willing to work for the team. has a little bit of Millar in him re. first touch but is settling in well.
JVOH…. ……….5 His goal was a classic strikers goal and I do wish he would spend more time in the box but overall he did not do anything to make me change my mind that he is just not good enough.
SUBS …………. MAGIC..….. 6 From the first moment he came on he showed an appetite and pace that has been sorely lacking for too long.
DONATI…. …..5 Replaced Sno and showed some nice touches but also his ability to make a simple pass a bad one..
REF ………….7 Didn't notice him..
THE GAME ……7 It was a good workout for Celtic but St Mirren were pretty poor.
COMMENTS ….. 1. Here is our record this year as compared to last year
2007-8 P5 W4 D1 L0 F17 A3 Pts13 GD+10
2006-7 P5 W3 D1 L1 F10 A5 Pts10 GD+5
Progress has been made.
2. The last time we played St Mirren (remember the announcer?) Celtic won 5-1. Only three players played in the 2 games: Boruc, Naylor and JVOH3. I don't think any of the three players brought in staked a claim to being first pick in a bigger match but they will all have benefited from the run out..
BORUC….…. 7 Our hero had very little to do and had no chance with the best goal of the game.
WILSON….…. 8 Thought he played very well and if he keeps up this standard then he will be first pick in the position.
CALDWELL…. 7 They say that if you don't notice a defender then he had a good game and this applied to Caldwell to-day. I had forgotten he was playing until he stepped in and broke up a St Mirren attack. Maybe he too is making it difficult for GS not to pick him?
McMANUS……..8 I thought GS's remarks on Frid summed up McManus's performance this season perfectly "Mick didn't know whether to play a Captain's role or a defender's role. I told him just to be a good defender and that would make him a good Captain". That is precisely what McManus has been doing.He strolled through this game.
NAYLOR….….. 6 He was better than he has been but there is something not quite right in his body language. Maybe it is just a loss of confidence.
HARTLEY... … 7 Didn't do much to impress in the first half but when he moved inside he was a different player. He too is showing improved form compared to last year.
SNO.......... ….. 5 Only played for the first 45 mins (it seems he wasn't feeling well) but he failed to make a real impact. His physique is very impressive, he just still has that tendency to be a bit too lackadaisical.
BROWN …….. 9...MOM Considering what Wed night must have taken out of him to-days display was just great. His ability to burst fwd from a standing start and brush aside opponents is top class and it is a long, long time that I have seen a Scottish player with such quick feet. Oh, by the way, he is also a wee bit gallus!!!
RIORDAN…. ……6 May have wanted to see him make more of an impact but overall he showed that there would be no problem in starting with him. He gives a different quality than McGeady insofar as he is much more ready to make a telling pass but does not have Aiden's ability to beat a man.
McDONALD ……6 2 goals in 2 games isn't bad and his goal to-day was a perfect example of how hard he is willing to work for the team. has a little bit of Millar in him re. first touch but is settling in well.
JVOH…. ……….5 His goal was a classic strikers goal and I do wish he would spend more time in the box but overall he did not do anything to make me change my mind that he is just not good enough.
SUBS …………. MAGIC..….. 6 From the first moment he came on he showed an appetite and pace that has been sorely lacking for too long.
DONATI…. …..5 Replaced Sno and showed some nice touches but also his ability to make a simple pass a bad one..
REF ………….7 Didn't notice him..
THE GAME ……7 It was a good workout for Celtic but St Mirren were pretty poor.
COMMENTS ….. 1. Here is our record this year as compared to last year
2007-8 P5 W4 D1 L0 F17 A3 Pts13 GD+10
2006-7 P5 W3 D1 L1 F10 A5 Pts10 GD+5
Progress has been made.
2. The last time we played St Mirren (remember the announcer?) Celtic won 5-1. Only three players played in the 2 games: Boruc, Naylor and JVOH3. I don't think any of the three players brought in staked a claim to being first pick in a bigger match but they will all have benefited from the run out..
29/08/2007 CELTIC 1 SPARTAK MOSCOW 1
A game I had been looking fwd to so much for so long had suddenly taken on a much more worrying aspect as a result of Ranger’s deserved entry into the Group Stage and the financial implications.The atmosphere was great and the Jungle Bhoys are to be congratulated for the impact of their hard work in arranging all the flags in Jock Stein Stand.
BORUC …….. 10 MOM I have only given a 10 to one player before and that was Henrik but the best Celtic goalie that I have seen (he might even be just behind ‘The Prince” in the all time greats. In the first half he came off his line to save Celtic on at least a couple of times. He produced a great save in the last few minutes of extra time but his real moment of glory was in the penalty shoot out. What an unbelievably emotional occassion it was when he saved the crucial penalty.
WILSON….…. 7 He’s a young player playing against some very good players but he stuck to his task and made some very good tackles. He will have to work on his crossing as very few of them get past the first defender.
CALDWELL…. 6 Felt it was the right decision to play him but half way through the first half I felt other wise. He was being caught out by the speed of movement of the Spartak forwards early in the game but the longer the game went on the more assured he looked. All credit to him for taking the first penalty and scoring.
McMANUS……..8 Although he too was caught out early on he made some great saving tackles to save Naylor’s blushes. He played a real Captain’s in shoring up the defence.
NAYLOR….….. 4 He was so poor in the first half we wondered if he would reappear in the second. He has lost all confidence and Celtic must go out and get a big, fast replacement.
NAKAMURA … 7 The increase in his work rate is amazing and his touch is still sublime. Of course he should have score from at least one of the chances he had within 2 mins in the second half but it was amazing that he was the player surging forward. It must have been playing on his mind that he has never scored against the Red Star goalie despite meeting him on several occasions. His penalty miss was hard to take.
DONATI ….. 7 Continues to impress and showed some lovely touches. It must have been the most physical 140 mins he’s played.
BROWN …….. 7 Found it hard to reproduce last weeks form but it will be a game that he’ll learn a lot from in terms of C.L. football.
McGEADY…. ……8 Thought he was Celtic’s best player whilst he was on the park. Full of direct running, full of heart and made some lovely, decisive passing.
McDONALD ……….. 7 Scored his first goal for Celtic and continued to show that he is going to be a very good player for The Hoops. May have scored earlier but he kept on trying.
JVOH…. ……….5 Missed a crucial penalty and quite honestly did very little to make anyone who thinks that he is a luxury we can’t afford change their minds. He is very slow. He does not use his strength and he does not win enough balls in the air. He needs to be rested. He gets credit for scoring in the shoot out.
SUBS …………. MAGIC..….. 3 Came on as a fresh new player and yet at no time did he show any speed, any great conviction or any involvement in the game. He must be sold. Oh, he did score his penalty!
RIORDAN … 6 Replaced McGeady, had a good shot which went just wide but the most important thing he did was score with a penalty.
O’DEA…. …..5 Came on for the stricken Naylor and did o.k. Don’t fancy him as a real full back as he is too slow.
REF ………….3 Far too pernickety and should never have awarded a penalty against Caldwell. Should never have sent the Red Star player off. Should never have been appointed.
THE GAME ……8 It was a fast moving game with lots of incidents and of course it had that finale!
COMMENTS ….. 1. This was a very good team we beat to-night and one that would have beaten any of the other team in this qualifying round
2. Can well understand Artur’s frustration with Naylor at half-time. We were all frustrated.
3. It didn’t matter how Celtic got through to the Group Stages all that mattered was that they did it but to leave it to the last kick of the game was just unbearable, unbelievable and unforgettable.
4. I just loved Billy Connolly’s reaction at the end. Whilst all the other ‘suits’ were leaving the Directors box Big Billy was giving the songs pelters.Now 16.30 on Friday will start the next chapter.
BORUC …….. 10 MOM I have only given a 10 to one player before and that was Henrik but the best Celtic goalie that I have seen (he might even be just behind ‘The Prince” in the all time greats. In the first half he came off his line to save Celtic on at least a couple of times. He produced a great save in the last few minutes of extra time but his real moment of glory was in the penalty shoot out. What an unbelievably emotional occassion it was when he saved the crucial penalty.
WILSON….…. 7 He’s a young player playing against some very good players but he stuck to his task and made some very good tackles. He will have to work on his crossing as very few of them get past the first defender.
CALDWELL…. 6 Felt it was the right decision to play him but half way through the first half I felt other wise. He was being caught out by the speed of movement of the Spartak forwards early in the game but the longer the game went on the more assured he looked. All credit to him for taking the first penalty and scoring.
McMANUS……..8 Although he too was caught out early on he made some great saving tackles to save Naylor’s blushes. He played a real Captain’s in shoring up the defence.
NAYLOR….….. 4 He was so poor in the first half we wondered if he would reappear in the second. He has lost all confidence and Celtic must go out and get a big, fast replacement.
NAKAMURA … 7 The increase in his work rate is amazing and his touch is still sublime. Of course he should have score from at least one of the chances he had within 2 mins in the second half but it was amazing that he was the player surging forward. It must have been playing on his mind that he has never scored against the Red Star goalie despite meeting him on several occasions. His penalty miss was hard to take.
DONATI ….. 7 Continues to impress and showed some lovely touches. It must have been the most physical 140 mins he’s played.
BROWN …….. 7 Found it hard to reproduce last weeks form but it will be a game that he’ll learn a lot from in terms of C.L. football.
McGEADY…. ……8 Thought he was Celtic’s best player whilst he was on the park. Full of direct running, full of heart and made some lovely, decisive passing.
McDONALD ……….. 7 Scored his first goal for Celtic and continued to show that he is going to be a very good player for The Hoops. May have scored earlier but he kept on trying.
JVOH…. ……….5 Missed a crucial penalty and quite honestly did very little to make anyone who thinks that he is a luxury we can’t afford change their minds. He is very slow. He does not use his strength and he does not win enough balls in the air. He needs to be rested. He gets credit for scoring in the shoot out.
SUBS …………. MAGIC..….. 3 Came on as a fresh new player and yet at no time did he show any speed, any great conviction or any involvement in the game. He must be sold. Oh, he did score his penalty!
RIORDAN … 6 Replaced McGeady, had a good shot which went just wide but the most important thing he did was score with a penalty.
O’DEA…. …..5 Came on for the stricken Naylor and did o.k. Don’t fancy him as a real full back as he is too slow.
REF ………….3 Far too pernickety and should never have awarded a penalty against Caldwell. Should never have sent the Red Star player off. Should never have been appointed.
THE GAME ……8 It was a fast moving game with lots of incidents and of course it had that finale!
COMMENTS ….. 1. This was a very good team we beat to-night and one that would have beaten any of the other team in this qualifying round
2. Can well understand Artur’s frustration with Naylor at half-time. We were all frustrated.
3. It didn’t matter how Celtic got through to the Group Stages all that mattered was that they did it but to leave it to the last kick of the game was just unbearable, unbelievable and unforgettable.
4. I just loved Billy Connolly’s reaction at the end. Whilst all the other ‘suits’ were leaving the Directors box Big Billy was giving the songs pelters.Now 16.30 on Friday will start the next chapter.
25/08/2007 CELTIC 5 HEARTS 0
Was really looking fwd to my first 'live' view of Celtic, confident that the first signs of the passing, attacking, skillful play I had seen on t.v. would continue to bloom. My post match prediction was Celtic 5 Hearts 2.Felt really disappointed for Millar tweaking a hamstring during the Scotland match and I'm a little worried that he will not be available for the Spartak game.
BORUC......... 7 Big Artur slipped back between the sticks as though he had never been away and commanded his area with the usual authority.
WILSON ........ 7 Very pleased to see him continue his return to form and he was by far the more solid and capable of the two full backs. He made one dreadful mistake but that apart threw himself into the fight and had no problems lasting the 90 mins.
KENNEDY ........6 Did not quite impose himself as much as I would have hoped but perhaps he is still finding his form after such a long lay off.
McMANUS ...... 8 A Captain's performance and he stood strong in the middle dealing with everything that came his way. Was turned once by Elliot? but even 'King Billy' lost his man sometimes.
CALDWELL .... 7 I'm a 'Kennedy man' but I was very impressed by the way Caldwell settled in and although you did not notice him much neither was he making any mistakes. Maybe he is the best partner for McManus?
NAYLOR ......... 4 He has lost all confidence and is need of a rest. GS surely is going to bring in cover for this position?
NAKA..... ....... 8 JOINT MOM..He may have had customary wayward passes in the first 20 mins but his exhibition of skill was just so enthralling. His nutmeg to set up the penalty was sublime and his little dink for the 5th world class.
BROWN ........ 8 JOINT MOM.. Was thinking during the first half "he's doing o.k. but nothing special and then I started to notice his strength in the tackle, his great little touches, his powerful, driving runs which led to 2 goals. If this is him settling in I can't wait to see him when he' contented.
DONATTI ........ 8 JOINT MOM. You can watch a guy on t.v. and come up with some comments but you have to see the whole picture to really appreciate the footballing brain this guy has. Yes, he can be a bit to casual with some of his passing and yes, I don't think he is 100% there yet re. stamina but it was a joy to notice how well he can see the 'great' pass and also his ability to forward with ball under control. His goal was delightful. A bit of the Bobby Murdoch and Paul McStay in him.
McGEADY ....... 5 He is physically stronger andfaster than last season and he is doing more in terms of defensive cover but yesterday was one of his frustrating days.
McDONALD ............ 7 I like him! He too has great upper body strength, a nice burst of pace and an awareness of those around him. Was very unlucky not to score at least one and did a great job in setting up the first goal.
JVOH .............. 5 He scored a good penalty, he set up Brown for his goal and had a couple of nice touches but for the rest of the time he was still an expensive purchase who contributed little. Had 3 good chances to score with the head but failed to get any on target. Let's hope that Wednesday is his night.
SUBS ............. RIORDAN .... 5 Had about twenty mins to impress but he did very little.
KILLEN ....... 5 Looks leaner and fitter and had a great chance to open his account but shot straight at the goalie.
MAGIC ........ 5 Only on for 5 mins.
REF .................6 Brines is a strange ref but this time he kept the cards in his pocket and he does allow the beefy challenge.
COMMENTS.......... 1. This is the type of football we have been waiting for. Lots of goals, some great, quick interplay and more pace in the team
2. I have no doubt that with this type of attitude Celtic are going to allow teams more space in midfield than the last few seasons have seen but we are also going to score a lot more goals than in the last two seasons. Those old 5- 2 games were just great.
3. The nerves are already starting to tingle re. Wednesday nights game. What will our tactics be? Will Hartley play? Will we concede a goal. What I do know is that paradise is going to be a cauldron of emotion withn the Celtic supporters displaying their now legendary support and creating that unique atmosphere. Not a night to be missed.C'MON THE BHOYS!
BORUC......... 7 Big Artur slipped back between the sticks as though he had never been away and commanded his area with the usual authority.
WILSON ........ 7 Very pleased to see him continue his return to form and he was by far the more solid and capable of the two full backs. He made one dreadful mistake but that apart threw himself into the fight and had no problems lasting the 90 mins.
KENNEDY ........6 Did not quite impose himself as much as I would have hoped but perhaps he is still finding his form after such a long lay off.
McMANUS ...... 8 A Captain's performance and he stood strong in the middle dealing with everything that came his way. Was turned once by Elliot? but even 'King Billy' lost his man sometimes.
CALDWELL .... 7 I'm a 'Kennedy man' but I was very impressed by the way Caldwell settled in and although you did not notice him much neither was he making any mistakes. Maybe he is the best partner for McManus?
NAYLOR ......... 4 He has lost all confidence and is need of a rest. GS surely is going to bring in cover for this position?
NAKA..... ....... 8 JOINT MOM..He may have had customary wayward passes in the first 20 mins but his exhibition of skill was just so enthralling. His nutmeg to set up the penalty was sublime and his little dink for the 5th world class.
BROWN ........ 8 JOINT MOM.. Was thinking during the first half "he's doing o.k. but nothing special and then I started to notice his strength in the tackle, his great little touches, his powerful, driving runs which led to 2 goals. If this is him settling in I can't wait to see him when he' contented.
DONATTI ........ 8 JOINT MOM. You can watch a guy on t.v. and come up with some comments but you have to see the whole picture to really appreciate the footballing brain this guy has. Yes, he can be a bit to casual with some of his passing and yes, I don't think he is 100% there yet re. stamina but it was a joy to notice how well he can see the 'great' pass and also his ability to forward with ball under control. His goal was delightful. A bit of the Bobby Murdoch and Paul McStay in him.
McGEADY ....... 5 He is physically stronger andfaster than last season and he is doing more in terms of defensive cover but yesterday was one of his frustrating days.
McDONALD ............ 7 I like him! He too has great upper body strength, a nice burst of pace and an awareness of those around him. Was very unlucky not to score at least one and did a great job in setting up the first goal.
JVOH .............. 5 He scored a good penalty, he set up Brown for his goal and had a couple of nice touches but for the rest of the time he was still an expensive purchase who contributed little. Had 3 good chances to score with the head but failed to get any on target. Let's hope that Wednesday is his night.
SUBS ............. RIORDAN .... 5 Had about twenty mins to impress but he did very little.
KILLEN ....... 5 Looks leaner and fitter and had a great chance to open his account but shot straight at the goalie.
MAGIC ........ 5 Only on for 5 mins.
REF .................6 Brines is a strange ref but this time he kept the cards in his pocket and he does allow the beefy challenge.
COMMENTS.......... 1. This is the type of football we have been waiting for. Lots of goals, some great, quick interplay and more pace in the team
2. I have no doubt that with this type of attitude Celtic are going to allow teams more space in midfield than the last few seasons have seen but we are also going to score a lot more goals than in the last two seasons. Those old 5- 2 games were just great.
3. The nerves are already starting to tingle re. Wednesday nights game. What will our tactics be? Will Hartley play? Will we concede a goal. What I do know is that paradise is going to be a cauldron of emotion withn the Celtic supporters displaying their now legendary support and creating that unique atmosphere. Not a night to be missed.C'MON THE BHOYS!
15/08/2007 SPARTAK MOSCOW 1 CELTIC 1
Decided not to accept Celtic FC's kind offer to travel with team for the princely sum of 1.6k!, so once again I settled down to watch the game on t.v. My hope was that we would not lose by anymore than 2 goals and that Millar would play on his own up front.Disappointed to learn of Millar's injury and a wee bit surprised to see both McDonald and JVOH playing up front.
BROWN......... 5 Had very little to do but will be very disappointed not to have kept the header out that led to the goal. Thought his positioning was just a little suspect. Did pull off a good block in the second half but we did miss Artur's presence.
WILSON ........8 For a player who admitted that he found the heat in America difficult to play in I thought he coped very well with not only the temperature but also the artificial pitch. Good to see him regaining the form he showed when he joined.
KENNEDY ........7 I would be sceptic if he said that there was no trepidation running out to play in his first C.L. game since that terrible injury 3 yrs ago. Also, he was making his comeback on an artificial pitch with all of its strange bounces, etc. Might have been badly positioned for their goal but overall played very well.
McMANUS ...... 7 Concentrated on just doing the basic things well and was a rock for most of the game. He will have to sort out with Kennedy how to cope better with the looping cross ball.
NAYLOR ......... 5 Was up against a very tricky opponent and never really got the better of him. Most of our problems were coming down his flank but he will be wiser for the return game.
NAKA..... ....... 5 Difficult one to judge. He put in more defensive running than I ever seen him do but not with great effect. Was seen very little of as an attacking threat and again his passing success will have disappointed him
BROWN ........ 7 Was forced to play a more defensive role with a lot of success and made one great run into the box, rounded the goalkeeper but just took too long to deliver the coup de grace.
DONATTI ........ 6 He may have made a few poor passes but his composure on the ball will be a great asset to the team during the season. Again failed to make the full 90 mins.
HARTLEY .... ... 9 MOM Played his best game for Celtic at the perfect time. Was played out on the left which is not his favourite position but he ran and harried for the full 90mins. On top of that he produced a great run into the box to meet McDonald's great cross to score that vital away goal. This will take away a lot of the criticism he's been rec. since joining The Hoops.
McDONALD .......8 What a moment to make your competitive debut and his C.L. debut. There were times during the game I thought he reminded me of the great Henrik. Has very good upper body strength, can hold the ball up and can set teammates up for the goals. What a perfect run off the shoulder of the last defender to set up the goal with a great cross.
JVOH .............. 5 Once again I fail to see what this guy is bringing to the team. I don't think anyone covered less ground than he did, I was not aware of him being a handful for the defenders and I doubt if he had a shot at goal.
SUBS ............. SNO .... 6 Replaced Donatti and performed well in the holding role.
McGEADY ....... 6 Replaced JVOH after 80?mins. Had a wonderful run in which he took out two defenders before releasing a superb ball to allow Brown his golden chance. I'm sure he can't wait to face that defence on grass.
REF .................6 Certainly believed in allowing the game to flow and he did not make the awful decision I felt sure was about to come.
COMMENTS.......... 1. I know the GS detractors are only waiting for the return match to watch him fail but he must be delighted to have secured a draw against the most difficult team Celtic could have met, to have played in the humidity/heat that is Moscow and to triumph over a pitch that made the ball act like a hot potatoe.
2. The return match is no gimme but we are ahead at the moment and I'm pretty confident that we will be in the draw on Thurs 30th. 3. Will be disappointed if Millar goes to Preston as is being rumoured but he will have a fight to dislodge McDonald on this showing.4. Although McManus and Kennedy played well there is no doubt that their weakness is in dealing with high ball delivered from the wings. This will have to be sorted out as many teams will be alert to this weakness. Rangers and McCulloch for one!
BROWN......... 5 Had very little to do but will be very disappointed not to have kept the header out that led to the goal. Thought his positioning was just a little suspect. Did pull off a good block in the second half but we did miss Artur's presence.
WILSON ........8 For a player who admitted that he found the heat in America difficult to play in I thought he coped very well with not only the temperature but also the artificial pitch. Good to see him regaining the form he showed when he joined.
KENNEDY ........7 I would be sceptic if he said that there was no trepidation running out to play in his first C.L. game since that terrible injury 3 yrs ago. Also, he was making his comeback on an artificial pitch with all of its strange bounces, etc. Might have been badly positioned for their goal but overall played very well.
McMANUS ...... 7 Concentrated on just doing the basic things well and was a rock for most of the game. He will have to sort out with Kennedy how to cope better with the looping cross ball.
NAYLOR ......... 5 Was up against a very tricky opponent and never really got the better of him. Most of our problems were coming down his flank but he will be wiser for the return game.
NAKA..... ....... 5 Difficult one to judge. He put in more defensive running than I ever seen him do but not with great effect. Was seen very little of as an attacking threat and again his passing success will have disappointed him
BROWN ........ 7 Was forced to play a more defensive role with a lot of success and made one great run into the box, rounded the goalkeeper but just took too long to deliver the coup de grace.
DONATTI ........ 6 He may have made a few poor passes but his composure on the ball will be a great asset to the team during the season. Again failed to make the full 90 mins.
HARTLEY .... ... 9 MOM Played his best game for Celtic at the perfect time. Was played out on the left which is not his favourite position but he ran and harried for the full 90mins. On top of that he produced a great run into the box to meet McDonald's great cross to score that vital away goal. This will take away a lot of the criticism he's been rec. since joining The Hoops.
McDONALD .......8 What a moment to make your competitive debut and his C.L. debut. There were times during the game I thought he reminded me of the great Henrik. Has very good upper body strength, can hold the ball up and can set teammates up for the goals. What a perfect run off the shoulder of the last defender to set up the goal with a great cross.
JVOH .............. 5 Once again I fail to see what this guy is bringing to the team. I don't think anyone covered less ground than he did, I was not aware of him being a handful for the defenders and I doubt if he had a shot at goal.
SUBS ............. SNO .... 6 Replaced Donatti and performed well in the holding role.
McGEADY ....... 6 Replaced JVOH after 80?mins. Had a wonderful run in which he took out two defenders before releasing a superb ball to allow Brown his golden chance. I'm sure he can't wait to face that defence on grass.
REF .................6 Certainly believed in allowing the game to flow and he did not make the awful decision I felt sure was about to come.
COMMENTS.......... 1. I know the GS detractors are only waiting for the return match to watch him fail but he must be delighted to have secured a draw against the most difficult team Celtic could have met, to have played in the humidity/heat that is Moscow and to triumph over a pitch that made the ball act like a hot potatoe.
2. The return match is no gimme but we are ahead at the moment and I'm pretty confident that we will be in the draw on Thurs 30th. 3. Will be disappointed if Millar goes to Preston as is being rumoured but he will have a fight to dislodge McDonald on this showing.4. Although McManus and Kennedy played well there is no doubt that their weakness is in dealing with high ball delivered from the wings. This will have to be sorted out as many teams will be alert to this weakness. Rangers and McCulloch for one!
05/08/2007 FALKIRK 1 CELTIC 4
Wasn't back in time to get a ticket so I had to settle for a t.v. set in St Andrews in the company of a former Celtic player and teammate?? When Bellamy and Black Sunday came up I mentioned that the same man had scored the finest hat-trick I had seen but he pointed out to me that he scored the 'perfect' hat-trick in a game against Rangers. I was suitably impressed but pointed out that any hat-trick against Rangers was always perfect!Thought the team selection was as good as it could be and was happy to see Millar replace Magic and Naka replace Hartley.
BROWN......... 7 Although he got a hand to the ball he really had no chance. Tipped a good try over the bar and overall played well.
WILSON ........ 7 Glad to see him continue his improvement in form as opposed to the form shown during the close season.
KENNEDY ........6 Did not quite impose himself as much as I would have hoped but perhaps he is still finding his form after such a long lay off.
McMANUS ...... 5 The Captaincy might be affecting his form. Wasn't dominate in the air and his distribution was poor.
NAYLOR ......... 5 Better than the Killie game but still not back to last years form. I think this shows in the rashness he shows on occassions.
NAKA..... ....... 6 Another amazing free kick and a couple of nice touches/flicks but also a few more sloppy passes than usual.
BROWN ........ 6 Still finding his feet but I thought that to-day he showed some real touches of class in his determined runs and urging on of his teammates. Still very happy with his signing and I'm sure that there is a lot better to come.
DONATTI ........ 5 Made the equalising goal with his determination to fight and it's obvious that he has a good footballing brain. He does tire after 60 mins which resulted in some very poor passes. Missed a sitter and also, he could not run faster than Latapy which is a worry.
McGEADY ....... 6 My 'Celtic friend' was very critical of his style of play in terms of not using the ball better but did agree that he has a great amount o skill and potential. McGeady had a great overhead kick which led to the second goal and I feel that he has added a little bit of pace which is encouraging.
MILLAR ............ 7 MOM He must be picked for for the game in Moscow and given the role of the lone striker. Brought a zest and vitality to the team, linked up well and scored a goal.
JVOH .............. 5 Apart from his goal and one good shot I thought he was posted missing for most of the game. Again I have to point out his lack of pace and physicality.
SUBS ............. HARTLEY .... 5 Didn't see him much on the ball but his appearance did coincide with Celtic scoring 3 goals.
REF .................6 The yellow cards were correct but his red was wrong.
COMMENTS.......... 1. In his 100th game GS must have been worried in the first half but the performance in the second was much more like it. The ball was kept on the ground, there was a lot of good passing and movement and at last some goals.
2. Thought that Latapy's display was wonderful example of how a good footballing brain can still control a match. His exit co-coincided with Celtic's supremacy.
3. I'm pretty confident about achieving a respectable result on Wed but will be very interested in the team. I would drop JVOH and replace him with Hartley or Sno to stiffen up the midfield.
4. Thought in the first half we missed a player of Lennon's ability and I think Sno is the only one who could play that role.
BROWN......... 7 Although he got a hand to the ball he really had no chance. Tipped a good try over the bar and overall played well.
WILSON ........ 7 Glad to see him continue his improvement in form as opposed to the form shown during the close season.
KENNEDY ........6 Did not quite impose himself as much as I would have hoped but perhaps he is still finding his form after such a long lay off.
McMANUS ...... 5 The Captaincy might be affecting his form. Wasn't dominate in the air and his distribution was poor.
NAYLOR ......... 5 Better than the Killie game but still not back to last years form. I think this shows in the rashness he shows on occassions.
NAKA..... ....... 6 Another amazing free kick and a couple of nice touches/flicks but also a few more sloppy passes than usual.
BROWN ........ 6 Still finding his feet but I thought that to-day he showed some real touches of class in his determined runs and urging on of his teammates. Still very happy with his signing and I'm sure that there is a lot better to come.
DONATTI ........ 5 Made the equalising goal with his determination to fight and it's obvious that he has a good footballing brain. He does tire after 60 mins which resulted in some very poor passes. Missed a sitter and also, he could not run faster than Latapy which is a worry.
McGEADY ....... 6 My 'Celtic friend' was very critical of his style of play in terms of not using the ball better but did agree that he has a great amount o skill and potential. McGeady had a great overhead kick which led to the second goal and I feel that he has added a little bit of pace which is encouraging.
MILLAR ............ 7 MOM He must be picked for for the game in Moscow and given the role of the lone striker. Brought a zest and vitality to the team, linked up well and scored a goal.
JVOH .............. 5 Apart from his goal and one good shot I thought he was posted missing for most of the game. Again I have to point out his lack of pace and physicality.
SUBS ............. HARTLEY .... 5 Didn't see him much on the ball but his appearance did coincide with Celtic scoring 3 goals.
REF .................6 The yellow cards were correct but his red was wrong.
COMMENTS.......... 1. In his 100th game GS must have been worried in the first half but the performance in the second was much more like it. The ball was kept on the ground, there was a lot of good passing and movement and at last some goals.
2. Thought that Latapy's display was wonderful example of how a good footballing brain can still control a match. His exit co-coincided with Celtic's supremacy.
3. I'm pretty confident about achieving a respectable result on Wed but will be very interested in the team. I would drop JVOH and replace him with Hartley or Sno to stiffen up the midfield.
4. Thought in the first half we missed a player of Lennon's ability and I think Sno is the only one who could play that role.
05/08/2007 CELTIC 0 KILMARNOCK 0
The bar in Portal Nous wasn't showing the game so i had the 'pleasure' of watching it in Magaluf! It turned out to be a Rangers bar so the afternoon only got worse. Disappointed in the selection of Hartley and the pairing of JVOH and Magic up front as they hadn't succeeded in the past. Delighted to see Kennedy retain his place.
BROWN......... 7 Was confident in everything that he had to do (which wasn't a lot) and made a great instinctive save to prevent an own goal. Have no worries about him standing in for Artur.
WILSON ........ 6 Showed a lot of energy and defended with tenacity. Only weak point was his distribution when not under pressure.
KENNEDY ........8 MOM was dominant in the air and showed a 'Hansen' like ability when playing the ball out of defence. A pity he did not convert one of the relatively two easy chances he had.
McMANUS ...... 4 Maybe it was the Captaincy, maybe it was nerves but whatever it was he had one of his poorest games. Was fortunate not to conceded a penalty and put the defence under pressure with two bad mistakes. He will have to improve in the air if he is to make the next move up in quality.
NAYLOR ......... 4 Thought he maintained his pre.season form rather than his past season form. Found Naismith a handful and was fortunate not to earn a red card.
HARTLEY ....... 4 I(t is amazing that this player cannot reproduce his Hearts form for The Hoops. I would rather see Barnjson in instead.
BROWN .......... 5 Such a pre season hype, such a match disappointment. It's \not that he didn't show his ability, it's just that he had little impact on the game.
DONATTI ........ 6 Showed some great skill and composure early on but faded badly in the second half. Very confident about his long term contribution.
McGEADY ....... 6 Thought he tried very hard, lasted the 90 mins better than last season but he still failed to make the really decisive move or pass that can swing games.
MAGIC ............ 4 Thought for the first 20 mins that the old Magic was back but he must be judged on his performance for all the time he was on the park and on that basis he disappointed. He must not be our first choice.
JVOH .............. 4 I started to worry about this guy during the middle of last season and unfortunately he did nothing against Killie to ease my worries. He's not fast, he's not physical and he's not scoring goals. His jaiket's on a shoogly nail.
SUBS ............. NAKA .... 5 Didn't have enough time to acclimatise himself but he did show some lovely touches.
KILLEN .... 5 Expected more from him but it's difficult coming on for such a short time.
REF .................4 Missed two penalties, one red card and two glaring corners.
COMMENTS.......... 1. Oh! how I love the close season when my optimism knows no bounds and how depressed I can get when we turn in another performance like this. I thought the first 20 mins were all that I had hoped for but then we reverted to the type of game I saw too much of last season. Why did we play so \many long balls when it was obvious that we had better players with the ball on the ground? Why have we lost the ability to score goals (anyone who doubts this statement should just have a look at the last 10 seasons goals for column). I'm sure McDonald will make a big difference when he returns.
BROWN......... 7 Was confident in everything that he had to do (which wasn't a lot) and made a great instinctive save to prevent an own goal. Have no worries about him standing in for Artur.
WILSON ........ 6 Showed a lot of energy and defended with tenacity. Only weak point was his distribution when not under pressure.
KENNEDY ........8 MOM was dominant in the air and showed a 'Hansen' like ability when playing the ball out of defence. A pity he did not convert one of the relatively two easy chances he had.
McMANUS ...... 4 Maybe it was the Captaincy, maybe it was nerves but whatever it was he had one of his poorest games. Was fortunate not to conceded a penalty and put the defence under pressure with two bad mistakes. He will have to improve in the air if he is to make the next move up in quality.
NAYLOR ......... 4 Thought he maintained his pre.season form rather than his past season form. Found Naismith a handful and was fortunate not to earn a red card.
HARTLEY ....... 4 I(t is amazing that this player cannot reproduce his Hearts form for The Hoops. I would rather see Barnjson in instead.
BROWN .......... 5 Such a pre season hype, such a match disappointment. It's \not that he didn't show his ability, it's just that he had little impact on the game.
DONATTI ........ 6 Showed some great skill and composure early on but faded badly in the second half. Very confident about his long term contribution.
McGEADY ....... 6 Thought he tried very hard, lasted the 90 mins better than last season but he still failed to make the really decisive move or pass that can swing games.
MAGIC ............ 4 Thought for the first 20 mins that the old Magic was back but he must be judged on his performance for all the time he was on the park and on that basis he disappointed. He must not be our first choice.
JVOH .............. 4 I started to worry about this guy during the middle of last season and unfortunately he did nothing against Killie to ease my worries. He's not fast, he's not physical and he's not scoring goals. His jaiket's on a shoogly nail.
SUBS ............. NAKA .... 5 Didn't have enough time to acclimatise himself but he did show some lovely touches.
KILLEN .... 5 Expected more from him but it's difficult coming on for such a short time.
REF .................4 Missed two penalties, one red card and two glaring corners.
COMMENTS.......... 1. Oh! how I love the close season when my optimism knows no bounds and how depressed I can get when we turn in another performance like this. I thought the first 20 mins were all that I had hoped for but then we reverted to the type of game I saw too much of last season. Why did we play so \many long balls when it was obvious that we had better players with the ball on the ground? Why have we lost the ability to score goals (anyone who doubts this statement should just have a look at the last 10 seasons goals for column). I'm sure McDonald will make a big difference when he returns.
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