Jim Craig – Bryan Robson’s testimonial, Manchester United 1-3 Celtic

The stars of yester-year like Jimmy Quinn, Patsy Gallagher or Jimmy McGrory usually received a benefit match for their long service. These were often entertaining but crowds of over 8,000 were unusual, as the general public felt that footballers were well paid already.

In more recent years, testimonial matches have been the trend, with Celtic involved either for their own servants – like Billy McNeill in 1974, Jimmy Johnstone and Bobby Lennox in 1976, Danny McGrain in 1980, Tommy Burns in 1987 and Jock Stein in 1978 – or for English or foreign stars who like Celtic to be the opposition of choice, like Alfredo di Stefano in 1967 or Bobby Charlton in 1972.

On this day in 1990, it was Bryan Robson’s turn and a host of Celtic fans made the trip down to Old Trafford to see their side take on Manchester United, who took the lead in 14 minutes through Mark Hughes.

Celtic were not to be denied, however, equalised thanks to John Collins two minutes before the break and then went ahead with a goal by Charlie Nicholas right on the half-time whistle. And that lead was increased to 3-1 by substitute Tommy Coyne in the 74th minute.

So, his side might have lost 3-1 but with 41,658 watching, Bryan Robson was surely very pleased with his evening.

Many Happy Returns to Wayne Biggins, born on this day in Sheffield in 1961.

Jim Craig

About Author

The Celtic Star founder and editor, who has edited numerous Celtic books over the past decade or so including several from Lisbon Lions, Willie Wallace, Tommy Gemmell and Jim Craig. Earliest Celtic memories include a win over East Fife at Celtic Park and the 4-1 League Cup loss to Partick Thistle as a 6 year old. Best game? Easy 4-2, 1979 when Ten Men Won the League. Email editor@thecelticstar.co.uk

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