Matt O’Riley, or The Builder as Sandman calls him, has had some start to his Celtic career. Usually new players would expect to get a gradual introduction, particularly if they’ve not played much football recently or if they’ve maybe come from a lower level of football and are making a big step up coming to a club like Celtic.
Yet things seemed to fall into place brilliantly as far as matching Matt with the Hoops. First Riley McGree took the decision to opt for Middlesbrough over Celtic, opening the door for O’Riley to get the nod. Thankfully he was a boy who valued his football believing that by getting that right the pounds, shilling and pence would take care of themselves.
Then he got selected for the games against Hearts at Tynecastle and Dundee United at Celtic Park due to the injuries and international call-ups that Ange Postecoglou was having to deal with. That though was no problem for O’Riley and his reward was a place on merit in the starting eleven last night for what would be the biggest game of his career so far.
When in years to come Matt O’Riley looks back on his playing career last night will be one game that brings a smile to his face. It was simply unforgettable for everyone inside that wonderful arena at Celtic Park.
Speaking to Celtic TV after the game the £1.5m signing from MK Dons tried to sum up the emotions.
“I can’t compare that to anything I’ve ever been in, no chance. I can’t actually hear my own voice right now, so that says enough. It was mental, a crazy experience and I’m actually struggling to put it into words.
“In terms of fans, we’ve got the best fans in the world, honestly. After that night, I’ve never seen anything like that in my life. I’ve been to a lot of football games, Champions League games, but that was unbelievable and all I can say is thank you to the fans.”
