Naka’s cracker at Killie is definitely one to remember

This afternoon Celtic play Kilmarnock at Rugby Park, a place were we have witnessed a lot of enjoyable victories. Some more than others, and one in particular that ever Celtic supporter will remember was back in April 2007.

We needed the three points to clinch a second successful title under Gordon Strachan. Deadlocked at 1-1 with the game entering injury time, Celtic were awarded a free kick just outside the box on the far right side.

There was only one man who was going to take it and that was Shunsuke Nakamura.

The Japanese playmaker was one of the best free kick takers in the world, and the Kilmarnock supporters, the Killie players in the wall, Naka himself, and the Celtic supporters behind the goal and indeed behind the other goal, all knew what was going to happen.

Most players would have whipped the ball into the box looking for an onrushing head, but not Naka. He whipped the ball in and it headed straight were he intended it to. The far bottom corner. The net nestled and Celtic were Champions!

The celebrations were incredible! Absolute bedlam. The Celtic supporters went wild behind the goals. Naka ripped his top off and chased by his joyful teammates they headed towards the celebrating Celtic supporters.

Wee Gordon danced with delight on the touchline, it was a brilliant moment as the title was secured by The King of Japan.

Last minute winners are always special, but one that clinches the title even more so, as the late David Potter’s Player of the Day talks about this morning on The Celtic Star. Todays player of the day is none other that Murdo MacLeod who scored a title winner of his own back in 1979 – well, he made sure of it at least. That goal in the 4-2 game is up there with Nara’s free-kick at Kilmarnock in the category of top Celtic goals of all time. What a day that was at Rugby Park! Great memories.

Just an Ordinary Bhoy

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About Author

An ordinary everyday Celtic supporters hailing and still residing in Govan in the shadows of the enemy. I’m a season ticket holder. I Witnessed my first Celtic game in 1988 and have attended when I can ever since. Growing up in the 90s I witnessed Celtic at their lowest, and now appreciate the historic success we enjoy today. I enjoy writing about this wonderful football club and hopefully will continue to do so. I’ve always been a keen writer and initially started this a hobby. My ambition is to one day become as good an author as my fellow Celtic Star colleagues.

1 Comment

  1. The last championship i saw won in person before i.moved to Canada and to cap it all my dad was at the game with me. Fantastic day and helped erase the memory of losing it at the same stadium the Sunday after Seville.