1988 – Celtic 2-1 Dundee United
Celtic were founded in 1887 but first played in 1888, so the 1987-88 season marked the club’s centenary. However, it was not clear that there would be anything to celebrate. The Souness Revolution at Ibrox had seen Rangers spend large sums, and most media predictions expected a successful Rangers season.
Celtic Scottish Cup winners 1988. Happy Birthday Celtic! Photo The Celtic Wiki
To counter this, the summer of 1987 saw Celtic bring back former boss Billy McNeill. ‘Cesar’ had been successful in his previous managerial spell – and also as a player – but could he do it again? The answer was an emphatic Yes.
Celtic started out with League success, finishing ahead of Hearts, despite pre-season beliefs of Rangers’ likely dominance. Three weeks after winning the title, the Bhoys were at Hampden to face Dundee United. Kevin Gallacher – the grandson of Celtic legend Patsy – put the Tayside men in front, and as the minutes ran down, it looked grim for green-and-white hopes.
However, with 14 minutes remaining, Frank McAvennie knocked home to level the match. Now Celtic went in search of a winner. Just as extra time looked likely, McAvennie struck once more, and ensured green-and-white ribbons again adorned the trophy. Huge celebrations took place to mark not only the Bhoys’ latest double, but also 100 years of Celtic.
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