Glasgow Celtic Supporters Thread
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Celts win on penalties to end tour on high
Mark Henderson
CELTIC lifted the Fenway Football Challenge Trophy and finished their North American Tour with a flourish after beating Sporting Lisbon on penalty kicks in Boston.
The match had finished 1-1 in normal time after Georgios Samaras had given the Hoops the lead from the spot. That strike was cancelled out by a Helder Postiga header in the final 10 minutes.
With the scores level, it signalled the dramatic finale of penalty kicks for the crowd of 32,162 to enjoy. And after Liedson had missed for Sporting with the scores at 5-5, Paul McGowan slotted home the winning penalty to hand Neil Lennon’s side the victory.
The game was an entertaining spectacle that was worthy of being the first football match for 42 years at America’s most celebrated and historic baseball venue, Fenway Park.
For the final match of the North American Tour, Lennon had made several changes from the team that defeated Seattle Sounders 2-1. Those returning to the starting XI included Scott Brown, Charlie Mulgrew and Lukasz Zaluska. In attack Paddy McCourt, fresh from his winning goal in Seattle, kept his place, operating in a position behind Marc-Antoine Fortune.
After a quiet opening, a moment of magic from Brown in the centre of the pitch, nearly opened up the Sporting defence, but he was unable to thread a pass through for McCourt.
The Hoops manufactured the best move of the match so far, when McCourt skipped past one man and released Mark Wilson, who delivered a good ball into the box, which forced the Portuguese side to concede a corner.
Eventually, after 15 minutes Paulo Sergio’s side got their first shot on goal when Miguel Veloso fired harmlessly over from 25 yards. The same player had another effort on goal minutes from the angle of the box which again flew above Lukasz Zaluska’s bar.
In the 26th minutes, Fortune was the first to react when a clearance was blocked. He drove inside the box and his low shot from an acute angle was blocked for a corner.
Just past the half-hour mark, Brown displayed great tenacity and skill to burst through from midfield. He managed to find some space for a shot, but was unable to get a clean strike away.
At the other hand, Simon Vukevic tested Zaluska with a powerful strike but the Pole was well-placed to clutch it to his chest. Shortly after, Fortune picked up a knock and was replaced by Paul McGowan.
In truth, there had been few clear chances created to this point, but as half-time approached, both sides came close to opening the scoring.
First, McCourt picked out Samaras with a delicious ball from the left and the Greek striker planted a half-volley narrowly wide of the near-post.
The Hoops came close three minutes later in a similar move. Again, McCourt crossed from the left and James Forrest crept in at the far post. The youngster stabbed the ball towards goal, forcing Patricio into a good save.
Sporting hit-back immediately on the break when Carlos Saleiro found himself with only Zaluska to beat. He rounded the Polish stopper and rolled the ball towards goal, but Glenn Loovens was on hand to clear the ball to safety.
After the break, the Portguese side changed their whole starting XI. And unsurprisingly, it was Celtic that opened the half brighter.
McCourt was looking Celtic’s most dangerous player and he floated a dangerous ball into the box. Samaras rose highest and glanced a header towards goal, which Vitor Golas did well to push around the post.
On 48 minutes Forrest burst clear down the right and found Paul McGowan in the box, but his low cross narrowly evaded Samaras.
After that, the new-look Sporting side got up to the pace of the game and began to get a grip on proceedings but without really creating anything.
It was not until an Andre Santos shot in the 63rd minute, which fizzed over Zaluska’s bar, that they worried the Celtic defence.
Liedson was then denied a clear shot at goal by the outstretched boot of Darren O’Dea.
After a nice spell of possession McGowan had a half-chance for the Hoops, but was unable to get any power in shot from 20 yards.
In the 72nd minute Celtic went in front. Samaras beat the offside trap and was brought down inside the box as he cut inside. It was a definite spot-kick.
Samaras took responsibility and confidently stroked the ball into the corner for his third goal – and third successful penalty of pre-season.
That stung Sporting into action, and Maniche fired a powerful shot on target, which Zaluska did well to turn over.
The pressure was building and they forced the equaliser in the 82nd minute. A corner was floated into the box and, after a header had crashed onto the bar, Helder Postiga, who just entered the fray, nodded the rebound home.
Celtic tried to hit-back through a Ki free-kick from 30 yards which Golas gathered comfortably.
Postiga, who had been a real danger since his arrival in then forced Zaluska into another great stop with a dipping shot which the Pole had to tip over the bar.
Forrest had a chance to win in added time when he cut inside and shot over the bar with his left foot.
With the scores level the match went to penalty kicks and after both sides had scored their first five efforts, Leidson blazed over and allowed McGowan to fire home the winning strike.
The win rounded off the North American Tour on a high. And the result will give Neil Lennon further encouragement as he takes his team into the crucial Champions League Qualifer with Sporting Braga next week.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Fenway Park, Boston
CELTIC…1
(Samaras 72)
SPORTING…1
(Postiga 82)
Celtic win 6-5 on penalty kicks.
CELTIC (4-4-2) Zaluska; Wilson, Loovens (Rogne 57), O’Dea, Mulgrew; Forrest, Brown (Ferry 83), Ki, Samaras; McCourt (Sheridan 83), Fortune (McGowan 33)
SPORTING (4-4-2) Patrico(Golas 45); Torsiglieri(Coelho 45), Grimi (Pereira 45), Abel (Polga 45), Tonel (Evadlo 45); Veloso (Maniche 45), Mendes (Alonso 45) Fernandez (Djalo 45, Postiga 81) Valdes (Sinima-Pongolle 45), Vukevic (Liedson 45) Saleiro (Salomao 45)
Thanks for update Noely.Well done Celtic👍
noelyf
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First-leg defeat puts Braga in the driving seat
Laura Brannan
NEIL Lennon’s first competitive game in charge as the Celtic manager ended in a 3-0 defeat at the hands of SC Braga in the first-leg of the Champions League third round qualifier.
The Hoops battled through the Portuguese heat but went down to a soft penalty in the first half and were punished twice in the second, setting up a difficult return leg next Wednesday in Glasgow.
Lennon fielded a new look side to the one which finished last season, with four new players making their competitive debuts for the Hoops. Cha Du-Ri, Charlie Mulgrew, Efrain Juarez and Joe Ledley made the starting XI along with Shaun Maloney, who returned after nine months on the sidelines. Dutch defender Jos Hooiveld also started for what was his third competitive appearance following a number of lengthy injuries.
It was a promising start from Celtic who enjoyed most of the early possession in Braga’s half, but without actually creating a chance on goal.
The home side’s first real effort came after 17 minutes, when Lukusz Zaluska parried away a low drive coming in from the left. Salino slipped before he could reach the loose ball but Andreas Madrid got onto the end of it and thumped it high over the bar.
The first half was dogged with unnecessary stopping from the referee and it failed to get into flowing fashion. On 24 minutes, play was halted again as Braga were awarded a penalty for a foul by Ki Sung Yueng which Alan coolly converted to put the home side 1-0 up.
The goal sparked Braga into life as they piled pressure on Celtic and came close to doubling their lead almost instantly.
But the Hoops controlled the play well and looked sharp on the ball in the first-half, despite the match coming at such an early point in the season.
Celtic headed into the break one goal down, with their best effort falling to Scott Brown on 37 minutes. His quick flick skimmed the wrong side of the post but was flagged for offside mid-strike.
The visitors started the second half brightly with some delightful passing play but despite not letting Braga near the ball, Celtic still couldn’t get into the final third. Too many slack balls prevented the Hoops from bringing the score back to level and they were eventually punished for it.
Zaluska was forced to clear a dangerous Braga cross out for a corner with his knee on 74 minutes. The resulting corner was met by Elderson in the centre of the box who struck the ball through the crowded area and into the net, doubling the home side’s lead.
Mulgrew had a good opportunity to pull a goal back from almost 40 yards, but Braga keeper Mario Felgueiras got a hand to the ball and knocked it wide of his left post to safety.
Substitute, Matheus, struck a late blow to put the first-leg beyond Celtic’s reach three minutes from time when he cracked home a stunning free-kick from 35 yards.
Despite looking organised and holding on to possession for long spells, the Hoops couldn’t find that crucial away goal and have been left with a mountain to climb when Braga come to Glasgow next week.
First-leg defeat puts Braga in the driving seat
Laura Brannan
NEIL Lennon’s first competitive game in charge as the Celtic manager ended in a 3-0 defeat at the hands of SC Braga in the first-leg of the Champions League third round qualifier.
The Hoops battled through the Portuguese heat but went down to a soft penalty in the first half and were punished twice in the second, setting up a difficult return leg next Wednesday in Glasgow.
Lennon fielded a new look side to the one which finished last season, with four new players making their competitive debuts for the Hoops. Cha Du-Ri, Charlie Mulgrew, Efrain Juarez and Joe Ledley made the starting XI along with Shaun Maloney, who returned after nine months on the sidelines. Dutch defender Jos Hooiveld also started for what was his third competitive appearance following a number of lengthy injuries.
It was a promising start from Celtic who enjoyed most of the early possession in Braga’s half, but without actually creating a chance on goal.
The home side’s first real effort came after 17 minutes, when Lukusz Zaluska parried away a low drive coming in from the left. Salino slipped before he could reach the loose ball but Andreas Madrid got onto the end of it and thumped it high over the bar.
The first half was dogged with unnecessary stopping from the referee and it failed to get into flowing fashion. On 24 minutes, play was halted again as Braga were awarded a penalty for a foul by Ki Sung Yueng which Alan coolly converted to put the home side 1-0 up.
The goal sparked Braga into life as they piled pressure on Celtic and came close to doubling their lead almost instantly.
But the Hoops controlled the play well and looked sharp on the ball in the first-half, despite the match coming at such an early point in the season.
Celtic headed into the break one goal down, with their best effort falling to Scott Brown on 37 minutes. His quick flick skimmed the wrong side of the post but was flagged for offside mid-strike.
The visitors started the second half brightly with some delightful passing play but despite not letting Braga near the ball, Celtic still couldn’t get into the final third. Too many slack balls prevented the Hoops from bringing the score back to level and they were eventually punished for it.
Zaluska was forced to clear a dangerous Braga cross out for a corner with his knee on 74 minutes. The resulting corner was met by Elderson in the centre of the box who struck the ball through the crowded area and into the net, doubling the home side’s lead.
Mulgrew had a good opportunity to pull a goal back from almost 40 yards, but Braga keeper Mario Felgueiras got a hand to the ball and knocked it wide of his left post to safety.
Substitute, Matheus, struck a late blow to put the first-leg beyond Celtic’s reach three minutes from time when he cracked home a stunning free-kick from 35 yards.
Despite looking organised and holding on to possession for long spells, the Hoops couldn’t find that crucial away goal and have been left with a mountain to climb when Braga come to Glasgow next week.
noelyf
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Israeli star Beram Kayal signs for Celtic
Newsroom Staff
CELTIC are delighted to announce the signing of Beram Kayal. The 22-year-old Israeli internationalist has joined on a four-year deal, subject to completion of final paperwork.
The midfielder becomes Neil Lennon's seventh signing of the close season, joining Efrain Juarez, Charlie Mulgrew, Cha Du-Ri, Joe Ledley, Daryl Murphy and Gary Hooper at Celtic Park.
He has already gained 13 caps for Israel and is considered to be one of the country's top young footballing talents.
Israeli star Beram Kayal signs for Celtic
Newsroom Staff
CELTIC are delighted to announce the signing of Beram Kayal. The 22-year-old Israeli internationalist has joined on a four-year deal, subject to completion of final paperwork.
The midfielder becomes Neil Lennon's seventh signing of the close season, joining Efrain Juarez, Charlie Mulgrew, Cha Du-Ri, Joe Ledley, Daryl Murphy and Gary Hooper at Celtic Park.
He has already gained 13 caps for Israel and is considered to be one of the country's top young footballing talents.
noelyf
VIP Member
http://www.celticfc.net/home.aspx
Celts stun Lyon with late comeback
Mark Henderson
A TREMENDOUS late comeback from Celtic saw them secure a 2-2 draw in their opening match of the Emirates Cup against Lyon.
Both sides had created plenty of chances in the opening 45 minutes, but Lyon had taken the lead through a wonderful Michel Bastos free-kick. And they doubled their advantage after the break when Harry Novillo found the net with a deflected strike.
But Neil Lennon’s side showed terrific character to level things up deservedly in the closing minutes. Gary Hooper grabbed a debut goal in the 82nd minute, before Georgios Samaras headed home in the 89th minute.
With a point being awarded for each goal scored, the result leaves Celtic on three points, before their match with Arsenal tomorrow (Sunday, August 1).
On a pleasant afternoon in North London, Lennon had opted for an attacking line-up against last year’s UEFA Champions League semi-finalists.
New signing Hooper made his debut up-front, but perhaps the biggest surprise all was the inclusion of talented Czech teenager Filip Twardzik. It was the U19 star’s first ever outing in the top-team.
Nerves would have been understandable, but he showed great composure early on to head clear a dangerous cross from Kim Kallstrom at the back-post.
After three minutes, though, Celtic were inches away from taking the lead. James Forrest left Samuel Umtiti for dead on the right and his low delivery was headed into the side-netting by Marc-Antoine Fortune.
It was a breathtaking start from the Hoops and Fortune had another golden chance to open the scoring just 60 seconds later. Hooper sent his striking partner clear, but Fortune was unable to keep his shot down.
Lyon hit-back immediately when Alexandre Lacazette headed back across goal for Kallstrom. His rising volley was blocked by Milun Misun.
In the eighth minute, Aiden McGeady skipped past Reveillere on the right, but his cross was plucked out of the air by Remy Vercoutre.
It was an exciting opening 10 minutes for the sold-out Celtic end to enjoy and they were soon in full voice.
Both sides were intent on entertaining the crowd with fluent, attacking football and Lyon were next to threaten. From a low cross from the left, Harry Novillo found himself in space at the back-post, his low strike was goal-bound but Misun was there to block on the line.
At this point, Celtic had enjoyed the better chances, though. When Forrest’s corner was cleared to McGeady at the edge of the area, his low shot forced Vercoutre to dive low to his right.
At the other end, Kallstrom struck a thunderous drive from the edge of the area, but Fortune bravely got his body in the way.
In the 28th minute Lyon took the lead in spectacular fashion. They won a free-kick on the right, 30 yards from goal. Up stepped Brazilian international Michel Bastos and he thundered a free-kick into the top corner past a helpless Lukasz Zaluska.
The Hoops attempted to hit-back quickly. Cha Du-Ri advanced down the right and Hooper seemed favourite from his cross until falling in the box while under pressure from Nicolas Seguin. But any appeals for a penalty were waved away by Japanese referee Ryuji Sato.
One of the features of the first-half had been Cha’s enterprising runs down the right. In the 34th minute, he found himself in space 25 yards out and, ignoring the shouts of Fortune who was free in the middle, he struck a fierce volley, forcing Vercoutre into a ‘Hollywood’ style save.
The Korean internationalist was proving a real nuisance to Lyon’s defence. Minutes later, he reached the byline and floated a cross in, which Fortune headed wide of the far-post.
Cha on the move again in the 40th minute. This time he drilled a low ball across goal, narrowly evading the outstretched boot of Hooper and winning a corner.
While Celtic were enjoying more of the possession, Lyon were still a danger on the break as half-time approached. The impressive Bastos teed-up Kallstrom on the edge of the area, but the Swedish internationalist blazed his shot over.
Twardzik had the final effort of an action-packed first-half, curling a low shot towards the near-post after Forrest’s skill had won a free-kick on the right.
The second-half began more quietly and the first incident of note was a worrying injury to Scott Brown after he hurt his knee, following a clash with Lyon substitute Yannis Tafer. It forced him to leave the field and he was replaced by Efrain Juarez.
It was the French side who created the first chance of note when the lively Novillo cracked a shot on to the bar from 25 yards.
And in the 54th minute they doubled their advantage. Lacazette raced down the right and pulled the back for Novillo and his shot deflected off Glenn Loovens and past Zaluska.
The flow of the match was punctuated by a raft of changes for both sides, with Andreas Hinkel, Thomas Rogne and Shaun Maloney joining the action for Celtic.
Joe Ledley showed a good turn of pace to drive forward, he found Hooper, but the striker was closed down before he could get a shot away.
In the 69th minute Juarez combined with Hooper before unleashing a powerful drive which just crept over the bar.
Forrest’s pace had caused problems for Lyon and he sped past one defender but was unable to find Samaras in the middle.
At the other end, Zaluska showed sharp reflexes to tip over a mis-hit shot from Jeremy Pied.
With 15 minutes remaining, a great counter-attack nearly saw the Hoops reduce the deficit. Samaras drove forward and released Hooper, who tried to return the favour, but Vercoutre was out quickly to intercept.
Celtic were finishing strongly. Hinkel progressed down the right and fed Juarez, who smashed a terrific strike off the post from 20 yards.
The Mexican was becoming more involved. Driving trough the middle, he fed Maloney inside the box, and his low shot was pushed away by Vercoutre.
Lennon’s side thoroughly deserved a goal and they got it in 82 minutes. Forrest, once more hared down the wing, his inch-perfect cross found Hooper, who stabbed the ball home for a goal on his debut.
Zaluska prevented Lyon from re-establishing their advantage when he made another fine stop from Tafer.
Then, dramatically, Celtic equalised with just 80 seconds of normal time remaining. Charlie Mulgrew swung a dangerous ball into the box and Samaras rose highest to flick the ball past Veroutre, sending the Hoops support into raptures.
On balance of the play it was what Lennon’s side deserved and the result leaves them still in contention for lifting the trophy.
Celts stun Lyon with late comeback
Mark Henderson
A TREMENDOUS late comeback from Celtic saw them secure a 2-2 draw in their opening match of the Emirates Cup against Lyon.
Both sides had created plenty of chances in the opening 45 minutes, but Lyon had taken the lead through a wonderful Michel Bastos free-kick. And they doubled their advantage after the break when Harry Novillo found the net with a deflected strike.
But Neil Lennon’s side showed terrific character to level things up deservedly in the closing minutes. Gary Hooper grabbed a debut goal in the 82nd minute, before Georgios Samaras headed home in the 89th minute.
With a point being awarded for each goal scored, the result leaves Celtic on three points, before their match with Arsenal tomorrow (Sunday, August 1).
On a pleasant afternoon in North London, Lennon had opted for an attacking line-up against last year’s UEFA Champions League semi-finalists.
New signing Hooper made his debut up-front, but perhaps the biggest surprise all was the inclusion of talented Czech teenager Filip Twardzik. It was the U19 star’s first ever outing in the top-team.
Nerves would have been understandable, but he showed great composure early on to head clear a dangerous cross from Kim Kallstrom at the back-post.
After three minutes, though, Celtic were inches away from taking the lead. James Forrest left Samuel Umtiti for dead on the right and his low delivery was headed into the side-netting by Marc-Antoine Fortune.
It was a breathtaking start from the Hoops and Fortune had another golden chance to open the scoring just 60 seconds later. Hooper sent his striking partner clear, but Fortune was unable to keep his shot down.
Lyon hit-back immediately when Alexandre Lacazette headed back across goal for Kallstrom. His rising volley was blocked by Milun Misun.
In the eighth minute, Aiden McGeady skipped past Reveillere on the right, but his cross was plucked out of the air by Remy Vercoutre.
It was an exciting opening 10 minutes for the sold-out Celtic end to enjoy and they were soon in full voice.
Both sides were intent on entertaining the crowd with fluent, attacking football and Lyon were next to threaten. From a low cross from the left, Harry Novillo found himself in space at the back-post, his low strike was goal-bound but Misun was there to block on the line.
At this point, Celtic had enjoyed the better chances, though. When Forrest’s corner was cleared to McGeady at the edge of the area, his low shot forced Vercoutre to dive low to his right.
At the other end, Kallstrom struck a thunderous drive from the edge of the area, but Fortune bravely got his body in the way.
In the 28th minute Lyon took the lead in spectacular fashion. They won a free-kick on the right, 30 yards from goal. Up stepped Brazilian international Michel Bastos and he thundered a free-kick into the top corner past a helpless Lukasz Zaluska.
The Hoops attempted to hit-back quickly. Cha Du-Ri advanced down the right and Hooper seemed favourite from his cross until falling in the box while under pressure from Nicolas Seguin. But any appeals for a penalty were waved away by Japanese referee Ryuji Sato.
One of the features of the first-half had been Cha’s enterprising runs down the right. In the 34th minute, he found himself in space 25 yards out and, ignoring the shouts of Fortune who was free in the middle, he struck a fierce volley, forcing Vercoutre into a ‘Hollywood’ style save.
The Korean internationalist was proving a real nuisance to Lyon’s defence. Minutes later, he reached the byline and floated a cross in, which Fortune headed wide of the far-post.
Cha on the move again in the 40th minute. This time he drilled a low ball across goal, narrowly evading the outstretched boot of Hooper and winning a corner.
While Celtic were enjoying more of the possession, Lyon were still a danger on the break as half-time approached. The impressive Bastos teed-up Kallstrom on the edge of the area, but the Swedish internationalist blazed his shot over.
Twardzik had the final effort of an action-packed first-half, curling a low shot towards the near-post after Forrest’s skill had won a free-kick on the right.
The second-half began more quietly and the first incident of note was a worrying injury to Scott Brown after he hurt his knee, following a clash with Lyon substitute Yannis Tafer. It forced him to leave the field and he was replaced by Efrain Juarez.
It was the French side who created the first chance of note when the lively Novillo cracked a shot on to the bar from 25 yards.
And in the 54th minute they doubled their advantage. Lacazette raced down the right and pulled the back for Novillo and his shot deflected off Glenn Loovens and past Zaluska.
The flow of the match was punctuated by a raft of changes for both sides, with Andreas Hinkel, Thomas Rogne and Shaun Maloney joining the action for Celtic.
Joe Ledley showed a good turn of pace to drive forward, he found Hooper, but the striker was closed down before he could get a shot away.
In the 69th minute Juarez combined with Hooper before unleashing a powerful drive which just crept over the bar.
Forrest’s pace had caused problems for Lyon and he sped past one defender but was unable to find Samaras in the middle.
At the other end, Zaluska showed sharp reflexes to tip over a mis-hit shot from Jeremy Pied.
With 15 minutes remaining, a great counter-attack nearly saw the Hoops reduce the deficit. Samaras drove forward and released Hooper, who tried to return the favour, but Vercoutre was out quickly to intercept.
Celtic were finishing strongly. Hinkel progressed down the right and fed Juarez, who smashed a terrific strike off the post from 20 yards.
The Mexican was becoming more involved. Driving trough the middle, he fed Maloney inside the box, and his low shot was pushed away by Vercoutre.
Lennon’s side thoroughly deserved a goal and they got it in 82 minutes. Forrest, once more hared down the wing, his inch-perfect cross found Hooper, who stabbed the ball home for a goal on his debut.
Zaluska prevented Lyon from re-establishing their advantage when he made another fine stop from Tafer.
Then, dramatically, Celtic equalised with just 80 seconds of normal time remaining. Charlie Mulgrew swung a dangerous ball into the box and Samaras rose highest to flick the ball past Veroutre, sending the Hoops support into raptures.
On balance of the play it was what Lennon’s side deserved and the result leaves them still in contention for lifting the trophy.
Watched game today Noely.Excellent young lads coming through,Great comeback today.Good luck for tomorrow.Come on Celtic👍
noelyf
VIP Member
Neil Lennon hopes Celtic will be able to pull off a transfer coup before the end of the month as he remained coy over suggestions he has targeted Manchester City striker Craig Bellamy.
The Wales international's future at Eastlands is uncertain as City boss Roberto Mancini reshapes his squad for his first full season in charge, and Lennon is reportedly interested in bringing Bellamy to Glasgow.
Lennon, whose side exited the Champions League despite a 2-1 win over Sporting Braga last night, expects to hear from Aiden McGeady today over the Republic of Ireland winger's visit to Russia to hold talks with Spartak Moscow.
And he did not rule out a move for Bellamy, who played alongside Lennon on a loan spell at Parkhead in 2005, when asked about the speculation following Celtic's 4-2 aggregate defeat in the third qualifying round.
'I wouldn't like to say anything at the moment on that,' the Celtic manager responded.
When asked whether the club were in a position to make such a high-profile signing, he said: 'I would hope so but I don't know. It's still up in the air as regards that. I don't know if we will, but if not we have got a lot of attacking options as it is.
'We are scoring goals and creating a lot of chances. We are playing at a tempo that even Braga struggled with.'
Lennon was 'delighted' with his side's overall display and praised several players including Cha Du-ri, substitute Marc-Antoine Fortune, Joe Ledley, Scott Brown and goalscorers Gary Hooper and Efrain Juarez.
'Brown was fantastic,' Lennon added.
'He gets a lot of unfair criticism from a lot of quarters, but I thought he was immense. I thought he played a real captain's role, but then that's just my opinion.'
While Cha received praise for his overall display, Lennon admitted the right-back was at fault as he allowed Paulo Cesar to run across him and head home the opening goal.
And Lennon is in no doubt where his main problems lie as his side prepare for the opening Clydesdale Bank Premier League clash at Inverness on August 14 and their first Europa League play-off five days later.
'We keep conceding soft goals,' Lennon said.
'I'm learning from it and hopefully the players are learning from it as well. I just think it was a poor goal, the guy has got across Cha. I didn't think there was much pace on the cross and he headed it from far out.
'I would like to keep a balanced back four as much as we can so they can build up some sort of relationship.
'I will think about that over the next couple of days and maybe bring one or two in if possible.'
Tamarc
Newbie
aiden mcgeady moves to spartak moscow
Newsroom Staff
AIDEN McGEADY has today joined Spartak Moscow on a four-year deal. After six years at Celtic Park as part of the first-team squad, the Irishman has decided to seek a new football challenge, and has moved to Russia, joining the team who were runners-up in the Russian League last season.
Now aged 24, McGeady is a product of the Celtic Youth Academy and came through the ranks at the club, making his debut in April 2004 when he scored in the 1-1 draw against Hearts at Tynecastle. He would go on to make 252 appearances for the Hoops, scoring 37 goals.
He won three league titles with the club, as well as two Scottish Cups and two League Cups, including the 2008/09 League Cup when he scored in the 2-0 victory over Rangers at Hampden. And he has also gained 28 caps for Ireland.
Aiden McGeady said "I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone at Celtic Football Club for making my time here so enjoyable and memorable.
"The Celtic fans are second to none and it is a fantastic club to play for. Celtic is the team I have supported my whole life and will miss so many things, however I am looking forward to the challenge of playing for Spartak Moscow.
"I wish the current players and management all the very best for the season ahead and I will be back whenever I can to cheer the team on."
Neil Lennon commented: "I would like to wish Aiden all the best with his move to Spartak Moscow. It is obviously a disappointment to lose a player with Aiden's talent, however, it was his desire to try and further his career in pastures new and I respect his decision.
"Spartak Moscow are a good club and I am sure Aiden will do very well there. I would like to wish Aiden and his family the very best of luck for the future."
Aiden leaves Celtic with the thanks and best wishes of everyone at the club for his tremendous contribution over the past six years, and the best wishes of the football club and the entire Celtic family are with him as he begins an exciting new stage in his football career.
noelyf
VIP Member
Hinkel Facing Long Lay Off
Andreas Hinkel will miss the next nine months with injury
Celtic defender Andreas Hinkel has been ruled out for nine months with an anterior cruciate ligament injury, the club have confirmed to Press Association Sport.
The German right-back picked up the injury at training on Tuesday and will have to undergo an operation.
Hinkel was not included in Neil Lennon's Europa League squad and would not have played against FC Utrecht in the first leg of their play-off tonight at Parkhead.
The Hoops boss had indicated during the summer that recent signing Cha Du-Ri was his first choice right back.
Hinkel, who joined Celtic in January 2008 from Spanish side Sevilla, is one of the higher earners at Parkhead and in the final year of his contract.
The former Stuttgart player was expected to be sold to free up money to allow Lennon to further refurbish his squad.
A statement on Celtic's official website read: 'It is with great regret that Celtic Football Club announces that, after an accident in training, Andreas Hinkel has suffered significant injury to his right knee.
'It has been confirmed after MRI scans as a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament.
'Andreas will be referred for the appropriate investigation and assessment.
'He will require surgery and could be out for a period of up to nine months.
'Clearly this is very sad news for Andreas and he will be receiving every support from the club.'
Andreas Hinkel will miss the next nine months with injury
Celtic defender Andreas Hinkel has been ruled out for nine months with an anterior cruciate ligament injury, the club have confirmed to Press Association Sport.
The German right-back picked up the injury at training on Tuesday and will have to undergo an operation.
Hinkel was not included in Neil Lennon's Europa League squad and would not have played against FC Utrecht in the first leg of their play-off tonight at Parkhead.
The Hoops boss had indicated during the summer that recent signing Cha Du-Ri was his first choice right back.
Hinkel, who joined Celtic in January 2008 from Spanish side Sevilla, is one of the higher earners at Parkhead and in the final year of his contract.
The former Stuttgart player was expected to be sold to free up money to allow Lennon to further refurbish his squad.
A statement on Celtic's official website read: 'It is with great regret that Celtic Football Club announces that, after an accident in training, Andreas Hinkel has suffered significant injury to his right knee.
'It has been confirmed after MRI scans as a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament.
'Andreas will be referred for the appropriate investigation and assessment.
'He will require surgery and could be out for a period of up to nine months.
'Clearly this is very sad news for Andreas and he will be receiving every support from the club.'
noelyf
VIP Member
Celts sparkle to sweep saints aside
Mark Henderson
CELTIC turned on the style in their first home SPL game of the season, thumping St Mirren 4-0.
The Hoops support were impressed by an tremendous display from Neil Lennon’s men, which saw them dominate in every department and play some fantastic flowing football.
First-half goals from Joe Ledley and Shaun Maloney gave the Hoops an early advantage. Spectacular strikes in the second half from James Forrest and Ki secured the points.
In truth the winning margin could have been much greater, with Saints keeper Paul Gallacher keeping the scoreline respectable for the visitors.
Lennon had made two changes to the side that defeated FC Utrecht so impressively on Thursday night. Cha Du Ri and Glenn Loovens were replaced by James Forrest and Jos Hooiveld.
After little action of note in the opening minutes, Celtic suddenly burst into life and scored with their first attack of the match.
In a wonderfully worked move, Forrest motored past David Van Zanten on the left and slipped the ball inside to Georgios Samaras. The Greek striker took a touch before sliding a deft pass through for the onrushing Ledley and he calmly stroked the ball into the far corner for first ever Hoops goal.
The early strike gave Celtic a lift and they began stroking the ball around with pace and purpose. At the end of one fluid attack, Marc-Antoine Fortune collected a pass on the right, cut inside on to his left and fired wide from 18 yards.
Just four minutes later, Fortune repeated the trick and this time his effort was closer, finding the side-netting of Paul Gallacher’s near-post.
Forrest was giving former Hoops defender, Van Zanten, a torrid time and, after he skipped past him again in the 16th minute, the Irishman was the first to be booked for a crude challenge.
Efrain Juarez, operating at right-back, picked out Forrest with a tremendous cross-field pass. His delivery was into a dangerous area, but Gallacher was out quickly to collect.
Midway through the half the Hoops deservedly doubled their advantage. It began with a burst from midfield from Beram Kayal. He took the ball past two players, collected a return pass on the edge of the box and smashed a right-footed shot on goal – Gallacher was beaten but the ball cannoned back off the bar.
Celtic kept the move alive, though. Eventually, Brown fed Fortune on the right, he crossed low into the six-yard box and Maloney was on hand to bundle the ball into the net at the back-post.
Another flowing move nearly crafted goal number three, but, with Samaras ready to pull the trigger inside the box, an outstretched boot from the St Mirren defender conceded a corner. It was taken quickly. Maloney delivered a deep cross and Hooiveld looped a header on target which Gallacher scooped up from under his bar.
Celtic were utterly dominant and Forrest was next to craft an opening in the 35th minute. Dancing past three players on the edge of the area, he fed Fortune, who swept a low cross towards the back-post, which was inches away from being converted by Maloney and Forrest.
Just 60 seconds later a sublime piece of skill from Juarez ended with Maloney striking the post with a low shot from 20 yards. The rebound fell to Fortune and he crashed a shot off the same post from a tight-angle. It was really entertaining stuff from Lennon’s side and the home support were quick to show their appreciation.
It was one-way traffic, with St Mirren struggling to get out of their own half. As the interval approached, Samaras dribbled past his marker and unleashed a shot from 30 yard which flew over.
Celtic started the second-half from where they left off in the opening 45 minutes. Maloney twisted and turned on the right and found Scott Brown inside the box, and his powerful drive was pushed round the post by Gallacher. From Ledley’s corner, Daniel Majstorovic headed on target but was unable to trouble Gallacher.
An excellent tackle from Kayal set up the next attack. Maloney passed to Samaras and his shot forced the busy Gallacher to turn the ball the round the post.
There was no let-up from the Hoops, who were playing at a pace that their opponents could just not match. In the 56th minute, Fortune was first to Samaras’ return ball. He cut inside Jure Travner and his left foot effort flew past the far post.
On the hour mark, Samaras won a free-kick on the left. Maloney’s crisp cross was flicked on by Hooiveld but it went past the far post.
Five minutes later the impressive Samaras was withdrawn, with Paddy McCourt entering the fray.
Juarez, who had driven forward at every opportunity, drilled a wicked ball into the box, which was deflected to safety with Maloney ready to pounce.
Finally goal number three arrived. Fortune showed good strength before releasing Forrest inside the box. He took one touch before rifling a ferocious strike into the top corner.
With the points now secure, Lennon brought on Ki and Murphy for Kayal and Fortune. Celtic were in no mood to relax, though, and added a fourth in spectacular fashion.
McCourt picked Ki 25 yards out from a corner. The Korean internationalist took aim and then unleashed a bullet of a shot into the top corner for his first-ever competitive goal for the club.
The final whistle saw the Celtic faithful give the team a standing ovation after watching a performance that will provide plenty of optimism and belief for the season ahead.
Scottish Premier League
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Celtic Park, Glasgow
CELTIC…4
(Ledley 5, Maloney 23, Forrest 69, Ki 81)
ST MIRREN…0
CELTIC (4-2-3-1) Zaluska; Juarez, Majstorovic, Hooiveld, Ledley; Kayal (Ki 71) Brown; Fortune (Murphy 74), Maloney Forrest; Samaras (McCourt 65)
Not Used: Cervi, F. Twardzik, Towell, Misun
ST MIRREN (4-5-1) Gallacher; Van Zanten (McAusland 45), Mair, Potter, Travner; Brady (McKernren 74), Murray, Lynch, McGregor, Robb (Ramage 77); Dargo
Not Used: Samson, Love, McLean
noelyf
VIP Member
Bhoys tipped to bring Given back to Celtic Park
http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?...k 23 August 2010 - 10:45 | Sport.co.uk&src=sp
Celtic manager Neil Lennon is the favourite to land Manchester City goalkeeper Shay Given with Fulham and Arsenal set to miss out on the former Newcastle United stopper. Manager Roberto Mancini has admitted that Given is free to leave Eastlands after Joe Hart was confirmed as the clubs Number 1.
Given, a self-confessed Celtic fan, began his career at the club after winning a contract under Liam Brady after impressing in a trial at the age of 14. Unfortunately the Republic of Ireland international never played for the club and was released by manager Lou Macari resulting in Blackburn Rovers manager Kenny Dalglish picking up Given on a free transfer.
The Scottish Premier League giants have now been cut to evens to sign the stopper, with Fulham and Arsenal outsiders to land the Republic of Ireland number 1. A move for Given would see the former youngster return to his first club 16 years after leaving for England.
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is still interested in Lilywhite’s goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer, however manager Mark Hughes is unwilling to sell the Aussie for a fee of £2 million after Wenger had a second offer rejected last Friday. The Frenchman is rumoured to have turned his attentions to Ajax goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg, while Manchester City are unlikely to sell Given to a Premier League rival, pushing the Irishman towards a move North of the border.
Fulham manager Hughes could move for Given if Schwarzer leaves the club for North London, however the West London club are hopeful of hanging onto the 37-year-old Australian international with Arsenal reluctant to improve their offer for the veteran stopper.
SKY BET ODDS ON SHAY GIVEN’S NEXT CLUB:
CELTIC – EVENS
FULHAM – 7/4
ARSENAL – 5/1
Source : http://ht.ly/2tgFr
It would be great to see Shay going back to Celtic Noely.He would do great job at any club.But i
would love to see him back at Celtic👍
would love to see him back at Celtic👍
noelyf
VIP Member
Travel information for Fc Utrecht game
Newsroom Staff
CELTIC travel to Utrecht this week to play the return leg of their UEFA Europa League play-off with FC Utrecht. Here is some important travel information for supporters going to the game.
FC Utrecht versus Celtic
Thursday, August 26, 2010
(8.30pm kick-off local time)
* Holland is +1 hour ahead of UK time
STADION GALGENWAARD
THE Stadion Galgenwaard is a football stadium in Utrecht that has been the home of FC Utrecht since 1970. The stadium, which underwent a renovation starting at the beginning of the 21st century, has a capacity of nearly 24,500 spectators.
Full name: Stadion Galgenwaard
Former names: Stadion Nieuw-Galgenwaard
Location: Utrecht, Netherlands
Capacity: 24,436
FC Utrecht came into being as a merger of three clubs from the city of Utrecht: DOS, Elinkwijk and Velox.
TICKETING
CELTIC have received 1,200 tickets for our supporters wishing to attend this fixture. Celtic supporters will be located in ‘Section V’ of the Stadium which is specifically designed for visiting fans.
Celtic FC will manage the sale of our tickets. Please only purchase tickets from official sources. There will be no sale on matchday at the stadium for visiting fans. Ensure that you keep your match ticket safe and secure. Please do not travel to the Stadion Galgenwaard if you do not have an official ticket for the match.
STADIUM REGULATIONS/SAFETY AND SECURITY
THE stadium regulations are broadly similar to those at Celtic Park. Supporters under the influence of alcohol will not be allowed to enter the stadium.
The area allocated to Celtic fans is accessed by a tunnel which leads to two stairs giving access to the seating deck from the track surrounding the pitch. Entry to this tunnel is gained via six turnstiles operated on an e-ticket barcode reader system. It will be important that this entrance tunnel does not become congested so please leave yourself plenty of time to enter the stadium. Along the length of the tunnel, the emergency exits are located which will be staffed by safety stewards.
Once the seating deck has been accessed by the trackside stairways the area is enclosed by a poly-carbonate and metal fence separating the visiting and home fans. A vomitory in the centre of the Celtic seating area gives access to catering and toilet facilities.
There is car parking available for visiting fans immediately adjacent to the access tunnel entrance. Supporters will be asked to show their ticket and are liable to be searched at this point before entering the turnstiles.
The exiting of the stadium is by the same entry route. Celtic supporters are liable to be asked to remain in the stadium for 15 minutes after the final whistle. This will be confirmed by an announcement in English. Please take your time on exiting the stadium.
Please follow the instructions and advice of stewards and police involved in public safety duties.
ADVICE FROM THE BRITISH CONSUL
Celtic FC are grateful to the British Consul, who have provided the following advice for fans travelling to Utrecht.
• A valid passport is required to cover the duration of the visit. Please keep your passport safe and a photocopy of passport details is a good idea.
• A local bye-law prohibits the consumption of alcohol in public streets.
• There is a legal requirement to carry photo ID at all times. This may be requested by the police.
• You are advised to maintain at least the same level of personal security as in the UK. As in most cities you should be aware of petty theft in large towns and pick pockets in crowded areas.
• The British Consul General can be contacted to provide assistance in emergencies.
British Consulate-General
Koningslaan 44, 1075 AE Amsterdam
Telephone:
+31 20-6764343
Open to the Public:
Mon – Fri 09.00-12.30 and 14.00-15.30
Out of Hours Emergency Number: 070-4270262
Irish Consulate, Rotterdam
2 Debussystraat 2
3161 WD RHOON
Postal Address: P.O. Box 1030
3160 A.E. RHOON
City: Rotterdam
Phone: +31-10-890-30670
Fax: +31-10-890-19593
Useful Websites
Foreign & Commonwealth Office
www.fco.gov.uk
www.ukinnl.fco.gov.uk
Tourist Information
www.stichtingatas.nl
Tel: 00 31 20-6253246
Email: info@stichtingatas.nl
TRAVEL SAFELY
REPRESENTATIVES of Celtic FC and officers of Strathclyde Police have already visited Utrecht to discuss with the local Police and authorities, arrangements for the visit of Celtic fans. The local Police Commander is well aware of the good reputation of Celtic supporters and fans are asked use all of their experience to travel well and safely.
SHUTTLE BUSSES FROM UTRECHT CENTRAL STATION
From Utrecht Central Station you can take a shuttle bus to Stadium Galgenwaard. You can find the shuttle bus at the exit 'Jaarbeurs'. This exit is indicated with signs in the station hall. The shuttle busses will take you directly to the stadium. They depart from Utrecht CS (exit Jaarbeurs) from 18.00 hour to 19.00 hour. The bus will also bring you back to the central station after the game.
Safe journey and enjoy the match.
noelyf
VIP Member
Goalkeeper Fraser Forster joins Celtic on loan
Newsroom Staff
CELTIC are delighted to announce that Fraser Forster has joined the club on a season-long loan from Newcastle United.
The goalkeeper becomes the tenth new arrival at Celtic Park over the summer and will train with his new team-mates at Lennoxtown for the first time this morning.
The 22-year-old keeper has earned rave reviews in England during loans spells he had at Stockport County, Bristol Rovers and, last season, at Norwich City, where he worked under former Celtic Paul Lambert. He was voted the Players’ Player of the Year at Norwich for 2009/10.
Fraser will be officially unveiled at a press conference later today. More news to follow on the official Celtic website.
noelyf
VIP Member
Celtic success story with Dublin health project
Newsroom Staff
A GREAT success story for the Celtic Foundation has been the recently completed Dublin-based Men’s Health and Wellbeing Programme developed by the Larkin Centre in partnership with Celtic, the Heath Service Executive and Pfizer Healthcare Ireland. The Programme, which was based in Ballybough, included participants living in Dublin’s North Inner City.
The programme’s objectives included helping men develop the knowledge to take control of their own health and wellbeing, acting as a catalyst for them to effect positive changes in their own lives, and promoting practices consistent with a healthy lifestyle.
The involvement of Celtic was intended to be the attraction which would engage men from the local community. The course had a timetable of four hours per week for 10 weeks. Cookery classes were held on Mondays, followed by an hour of health education with football and fitness training on Wednesdays taken by Celtic coaches.
There was health screening at the beginning and end of the 10-week programme. Factors being monitored included height, weight, body-mass index, blood pressure, lung function and cholesterol.
The evaluation of the project was conducted for the Larkin Centre by the Institute of Technology, Carlow, which revealed very significant successes. Within its most satisfying conclusions were facts such as over half (58%) of participants had lost weight with half reducing their waist measurements. Some 78% of the men reduced their cholesterol levels during the 10 weeks.
There was a 24% increase in the number of men now in the ‘normal’ blood pressure range and a reduction of 18% in the numbers in the ‘high’ blood pressure range. Nine out of ten participants increased their fitness levels in a 20-metre ‘Shuttle Test’.
One of the most pleasing outcomes was the fact that a number of the men have decided to continue meeting to maintain the progress already made.
One of the group, Mick Weafer, observed: “When the course finished we decided that we had to keep going.”
Forming themselves into the Betterman Group, with an initial membership of 10, these programme ‘veterans’ now meet each week to engage in fitness training and cookery activities.
Summing up his reasons for doing the programme and remaining involved, Derek Sheridan said: “Everything on it was what I wanted to do: look after my health, get my weight down. Everything suited me and Celtic’s involvement was a real plus, an added bonus.
“Though I don’t drink or smoke, this programme has helped me to avoid going down that road in the absence of having something to do, as I lost my job after working for 35 years.”
And Mick Denver said: “It has put me on the road to maintaining good mental and physical health.”
Darren Whelan has found that he is “living a better life” now and through his continued involvement he is finding that “it keeps my mind occupied.”
Anne Flannery, the Community Education co-ordinator, said: “The MHWP has proved to be a very worthwhile initiative in supporting men in Dublin’s North Inner City effect positive lifestyle changes.
“Bringing together a diverse range of organisations and agencies, corporate, statutory and community, the programme benefits from a breadth of expertise, all working towards the shared goal of supporting men lead healthier and more fulfilled lives.
“It’s credibility within the community is evidenced by the fact that we are now starting Programme Number 3.”
Robert Docherty, Head of Celtic Foundation, said: “The MHWP has been a huge success due to the strong partnership, dedicated staff and more importantly the commitment and attitude of those taking part.
“Recent external evaluations have been very positive with recommendations for the programme to continue and roll out across other parts of Ireland. The Celtic Foundation is delighted to have contributed to the success of this excellent project.”
And Paul Brownlie, Projects Coordinator, added: “As the programme now enters its third intake of new participants, we are delighted to continue our support of the well-being programme.
“During the 10 week block participants take part in fitness sessions at the Ballybough Youth Centre. So far we have seen unbelievable results in all the participants.
“The programme aims to instigate lifestyle change in males living in Dublin North Inner City and we look forward to playing our part for many years to come.”
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