Livingston frustrate the Champions Elect

CELTIC failed to break down a stubborn Livingston defence at Celtic Park this afternoon and after a goalless 93 minutes there were unbelievably boos ringing around the stadium as the lead at the top of the table increased to 14 points.

Livingston could and probably should have opened the scoring inside the first minute. Bain did well to save but from the corner Scott Brown watched on as the goal was wide open but the visitors effort was wide of the post.

That ended the West Lothian side’s attacking intentions and Celtic pounded their rearguard which consisted of Liam Kelly in goals – a clear man of the Match – backed by 9 defenders with one player left up top.

Christie could have had a couple before the interval and Rogic should have scored but Kelly was outstanding in making save after save.

At the interval there was little concern that points would be dropped but for the second week in a row it was the performance level that dropped and the game seemed to be slipping away from Celtic, in terms of getting the one goal that would be needed in this game.

Livingston were clearing like a rugby side kicking the ball into touch and as the clock ticked down Neil Lennon looked to his bench and brought on Hayes, Weah and Burke to replace Benkovic, Rogic and Christie- who was given the sponsors man of the Match.

Hayes provides better delivery down the left and Weah’s direct approach created a wonderful chance for Edouard who unusually fluffed his lines at the crucial moment.

Then right at the death Weah’s cross was spilled by Kelly and amid an almighty tussle the ball landed at the feet of Oli Burke who had a wonderful opportunity to become a hero. The ball seemed to get stuck between his feet and his effort agonisingly went wide of the post.

It summed up the afternoon, the second goalless draw in three home matches for Neil Lennon’s side. The Rodgers defined system clearly been consigned to the dustbin but there seems to be an ad hoc approach to systems and selections that is a concern to say the least.

Still, disappointment or not, booing the Bhoys is not on. Don’t suppose these supporters were around in the early nineties when we were taking much worse than today fair and square on the chin and came back for more the next week.,

Man of the Match – Liam Kelly

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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