SANDMAN’S DEFINITIVE RATINGS: CELTIC @ ICE STATION ZEBRA..
“It is never too late to be what you might have been.” – George Elliot
THE FRIENDLY GHOST – 6/10 – Just another Danish summer’s day for the finest goalie in the Schmeichel family, just ahead of his Mum. Cool as the temperature with the ball at his feet – certainly knows how to play a pass under pressure or to instigate a counter. No chance with their pen, although I was surprised he didn’t go the same way (low left) as he did in the cup final to foil that grotesque imp.
UNCANNY – 6.5/10 – The coldest place he’s ever been to in his young life; watched the Game Of Thrones episodes set beyond the Ice Wall for research and therefore probably wasn’t too surprised. But this sunshine kid is all about football and he remained as busy as the baker he replaced through the match, only denied a goal by a wonderful save.
WAYNE GRETZKY – 6.5/10 – Gloves, ya jessie! Canadian citizenship now in jeopardy as AJ embarrasses the nation by wearing what they refer to as ‘girls hand shoes’ in virtually tropical conditions. Further shame precipitated by conceding their penalty after dozing on the wrong side. But…All forgiven through the atonement of superb delivery for Kyogo to give us the lead, and almost scored himself with a deft back-heel (#1) among a relentless host of invigorating bursts down the wing and troubling balls in.
⚽️ "What a ball!"
🏃♂️ "This guy's movement's unbelievable"
❌ "No arguments" on penalty
⏪ Rangers defeat "just a blip"Hear from Kyogo & Alistair Johnston on Celtic's mentality in the win at Ross County ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/Wu5PqKnjwb
— Sky Sports Scotland (@ScotlandSky) January 11, 2025
GET CARTER – 7/10 – Another level of leadership from the big unit. Saw a lot of the ball, tidy with his use and positional sense spot on to repel their aerial assault when required. Meant they got no change out of direct balls; can’t recall a knock-on that caused trouble coming off any of his smart challenges.
CRUSTY THE CLOWN – 6/10 – A bit ropey early, gifting their best chance of the opening 45, through unsure footing. However, he’s got the mindset to dispel doubts and once settled, it was all positive defensive work and plenty of midfield effort as well to help build up our pressure.
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Agree with you about Engles; he’s a bit gallus but you can see he will keep improving. Having Brendan at the helm, young players will want to come here to improve. The future is bright ‘cos it’s Green & White.