A low key return to action for Celtic at Firhill, and a comfortable enough win in the end. They were never really in any great danger in spite of the ends to both halves involving Kenny Miller’s miss and referee Alan Muir’s soft penalty kick (after he had missed a stonewaller for Celtic).
The plus points for Celtic tonight were Tom Rogic (who seems to have lost a lot of weight) and Leigh Griffiths who clearly enjoyed himself, deserved the opportunity of a start, and took full advantage with an early goal.
I now feel that Griffiths could do with a run in the team, possibly alongside our new Polish signing who wasn’t really on for long enough for anyone to pass judgement, but who certainly looked the part.Similarly I hope to see a little more of Mr Arzani as well in the next few weeks.
Once again concern must be expressed about Odsonne Edouard who seemed to lack sharpness and incision. He is not at his best when the play is tight and he seems sometimes to lack the pace to shake off a marker. When he has to run on to a ball to score, there are few equals, but when the ball comes to him in the middle of defenders, he seems so clumsy and cumbersome sometimes.
Scott Brown and Callum McGregor excelled in midfield with Ntcham playing well enough. Yet there were times when the team didn’t seem to quite work together as a unit. Let’s just say that this was because of it being the first game back.
The defence was good, apart from Jullien’s howler at the end which could have cost us the game if it had happened a little earlier, It was nice to see Jozo Simunovic fit in so nicely to the defence when Bitton picked up that unfortunate injury. Greg Taylor had a good game and he too is another lad who could do with a run in the team One questions whether right back is the best position for Jeremy Frimpong, but no-one can question his commitment.
Highlight of the night was Chick Charnley at half time. It was just after Kenny Miller’s miss and he was asked “Would you have scored that one, Chick”. His answer was immediate and apt “Not against Celtic!” The lowlights were the stupid kick-off time which remind me of the New Zealand cricketer called Bob Cunis – neither one thing not another, and Celtic fans who took a long time to settle in the Jackie Husband Stand.
And I wish they would sit down!
However, a reasonable start on a Scottish Cup day of few shocks, and our League campaign resumes on Wednesday night at Kilmarnock. I look forward to it, and the important thing is that football is back!
David Potter
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