Pierre Van Hooijdonk’s perfect header – a special Celtic moment I cherish

This week 27 years ago, 12 October 1996 to be precise, seen a last minute Pierre Van Hooijdonk goal give a 10 man Celtic side a vital win over Motherwell at Celtic Park.

The game it itself was a damp squib and nothing memorable. Besides the goal I can recall the bumbling Gordon Marshall getting sent off after hauling down a Motherwell striker who I believe was Lee McCulloch. A young Stewart Kerr was brought on to replace him and with us down to ten men and with time ticking away it looked very bleak.

Pierre Van Hooijdonk powers a header towards the Motherwell goal.

Rangers were also getting beat by Hibs at Easter road so it looked as if we were going to throw away a golden chance to cut their lead at the top in an all important season.

With time running out and two points looking dropped, Jackie McNamara whipped in a terrific cross and as the clock ticked on the 90th minute big Pierre Van Hooijdonk perfectly headed the ball into the top left hand corner of the net.

Bedlam. The place erupted with joy, it made one young man’s day as he was sitting directly next to the goading Motherwell supporters as the ball hit the net. Glorious. It isn’t the most significant my Celtic memories, but it’s one I cherish all the same.

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.

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