Motherwell striker catches Celtic manager’s eye in hard fought draw

BY Saturday 27 March 1965 Celtic already had developed a new edge to their game under the new manager Jock Stein. They played Motherwell in the semi-final of the Scottish Cup on that day in a tough match that ended in a 2 -2 draw.

Motherwell twice took the lead through Joe McBride who gave Billy McNeill a very uncomfortable afternoon, but Celtic fought back and scored through Bobby Lennox and then Bertie Auld converted from the penalty spot to bring Celtic level.

Stein’s hungry side then thought they had won it when they scored in the last minute through a fine move from Jimmy Johnstone and Bertie Auld, but they were flagged for offside, a decision that looked harsh, to say the least.

Motherwell had Pat Delaney, son of Jimmy, playing for them, but their star man was their striker and goal-scorer.

So it was on this day in 1965 that Joe McBride caught the eye of Jock Stein.

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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