Jim Craig – Celtic, four months into the Second World War

Towards the turn of the year in 1939, nearly four months into the Second World War, Celtic were playing in the Western Division of the Scottish League and not doing particularly well, with only one win from 9 matches.

On this day in 1939, the team travelled down to Dumbarton to meet the Sons of the Rock at Boghead, where they had been playing since 1879.

Donald McKay was in goal that day for Celtic, one of his 17 appearances for the club; Bobby Hogg, eight years a Celt and Jock Morrison, with ten years at Parkhead, were the fullbacks; Willie Lyon held-down the centre-half berth, alongside the experience of 32-year-old Chic Geatons and the talented George Paterson in the wing-half roles; with the forward line reading John Gould, Malky MacDonald, Joe Carruth, John Divers and Frank Murphy.

It proved to be a better afternoon for Celtic.

Two goals by John Gould added to two by John Divers plus one by Malky MacDonald gave the Bhoys a 5-1 win and would have helped to brighten up a festive period without much cheer at that time in history.

Many Happy Returns to Kenny Miller, born on this day in 1979.

Jim Craig

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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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