THIS was a more than satisfactory performance from Celtic as we defeated a strong Kilmarnock side 3-1. We have come a cropper more than once in the recent past at this ground with its artificial surface, but there was no mistake last night.
It was particularly gratifying to see Odsonne Edouard score the first goal. He has been under criticism from a few people, not least myself for his lack of incisiveness in the penalty box. That could not be said last night about the first goal, nor could it be said about his general play, a strong feature of which was the way that he co-ordinated with Leigh Griffiths.
Leigh’s goal was a well taken goal as well, and although from the Chadwick Stand, it looked possible that he might be offside, TV replays show that he was well onside when the ball was played. But the third goal was the best. A great cross and Christopher Jullien rose like a bird to connect majestically. All we can say about the three goals is “More, please!”
I had a few doubts about the team selection, I must confess but the three centre backs with attacking full backs worked well with Jeremie Frimpong again on song in a more attacking role and Jonny Hayes was ubiquitous (he was all over the place) in his efforts. Scott Brown, Callum McGregor and Olivier Ntcham all played their part, although Ntcham’s judgement in when and how to shoot needs to be worked on.
We missed several chances, and the score should really have been a lot more.
For a while after Killie scored (a goal which owed a little to luck), we might have been in danger, but the team buckled to, and after the third goal went in, the only danger was the mist which on occasion looked as if it could get serious. But it didn’t, and three points are in the bag, and we have gained a goal over our challengers.
A serious black mark to the Kilmarnock supporters who jeered Jeremie Frimpong as he lay injured with what might have been a serious problem.
From what I understand, it may not be as bad as was feared, but nevertheless those Killie supporters should be ashamed of themselves. For all they knew, it might have been a broken leg – and I certainly feared that – and I’m afraid such crass behaviour is sheer ignorance and a disgrace to their club.
And my mind went back to a day at Celtic Park in December 1969 when the great Kilmarnock player Frank Beattie was stretchered off with a broken leg. Jock Stein took off his overcoat and placed it on the injured player, and clapped Frank as he was carried up the tunnel. The respectful Celtic crowd joined in. Now, that was real class!
So, onwards and upwards, Celtic! Ross County at home on Saturday doesn’t give the impression of being the most difficult fixture of the season, but this is football and anything can happen.
David Potter
ALSO ON THE CELTIC STAR…
Rodgers Buy heads for Genk, Ex-Celt ‘Misser’ Mutually Terminated…see HERE.
‘We all know what motivates Kris Boyd’. He is ‘an appalling ambassador for a mental health charity’…see HERE.
Sandman’s Definitive Ratings, For ‘a that – chasing Tam O’Shanter over a brig…see HERE.
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