Celtic’s U18s were narrowly beaten as Rangers U18s ran out winners in a close encounter at the Penny Cars Stadium last night. It was a game that was settled in the first half with Graham & Wilson scoring for Rangers but the highlight from the game was undoubtedly an excellent strike from Rocco Vata, which I am sure he will claim was deliberate.
Vata, who’s father Rudi was a Celt, takes a commanding touch before beating a Rangers defender and sending a curling effort into the corner at the backpost. Some may say it was a cross but I am sure Rocco will claim it.
Rocco Vata’s goal v rangers U18’S today☘️ pic.twitter.com/dkFHYOJ3xV
— AnnFrances Murray (@AnnFrancesMurr3) November 19, 2021
It is a disappointing result and whilst youth football is about development, a Derby match is always a contest that you want to come out on top of. Although, it is promising to see Vata continue to perform so well.
Vata has a Scottish mother and an Albanian father but qualifies for Ireland by virtue of an Irish grandmother. He would be able to change further down the line but with moments like this, you can see why Celtic (and Ireland) would be desperate to keep him around the club going forward. If the youngster can continue his performances for the Celtic youth sides as well as the Irish U17 side, he will push himself into the first team at some stage.
