With all the negativity going on in the past week instead of commenting on " What we should or Shouldn't sing". I'm going to cheer myself up (and hopefully some of you) by telling you all about the first Celtic V Rangers game I ever attended. It was Saturday 21st November 1998 and get this it was a 3pm kick off.
So let me set the stage, Wim Jansen had left and we had Jock Brown as our General Manager. Still shudder at that decision. After what seemed like an eternity we finally got our new manager. Rumours were abound, Hiddink, Houillier, Tommy Burns to come back. None of these of course it was Dr. Jozef Venglos. Only the true purists of the game had ever heard of him. Okay I thought, never heard of Jansen either so lets give him a chance. It was also at this point I recieved my first ever season ticket. Lisbon lions Stand Area 413 row v seat 41, still there to this day. So I was dying for the season to begin, trouble was it didn't start till October. Dr. Jo wasn't allowed to buy anyone till the middle of October and that was Vidar Riseth. Conveniently our season got going when Jock Brown " Resigned". We were an unhappy support at that point already thirteen points behind the Orcs. Uninspiring signings, Riseth, Tony Warner (on loan) and a 33 yr old Slovakian no one had heard of. A day before the game we signed a centre half from Sweden, who I vaguely remembered playing against England and thinking he looked hard as fuck.
Not much has changed in media build up to these games even back then the papers where full of how many Celtic were going to lose by. Rangers were too good for us, Van Bronkhorst, Albertz, Guivarch and the golden child of Scottish football Barry Ferguson. On our way to the game I'll admit I wasn't too optimistic for our chances. It was pitch black at 3 o'clock it looked more like a night game and I was freezing my bollocks off to boot.
The line ups were then announced, two names immediately sprung out to me. Mjallby in at centre half, " Christ he's massive and looks like Dolph Lundgren". Exact quote from my 16 yer old self. And Moravcik up front with Larsson. "I would've gone with Burchill myself" yep another quote from me. So here we were almost kick off, atmosphere was incredible first a chorus of You'll Never Walk Alone the The Huddle the place exploded. As is still the case the first ten minutes were frantic but something was different we weren't getting bullied in the middle as was always the case in old firm games. Albertz always used just walk through the middle of our teams. Not today, a full 5 mins into his Celtic debut Johan Mjallby became my hero. Albertz picked the ball up on the left and before he could look up Big Dolph had put him into the stand with most powerful shoulder charge I've ever seen. Not long after that after an embarassing Rod Wallace dive Alan Stubbs picked out Donnelly on the left who played the ball inside. Larsson took out Hendry with an incredible dummy and Moravcik smashed the ball with his left into the bottom corner. What happened next was the loudest noise I had heard in my life, I lost the plot jumping on anyone near me, hugging folk I had barely spoke to since the season started. From then till half time it was the Lubo show, cut backs, nutmegs the whole shabang. We've got ourselves a player here, so good was his tricks and turns that he out foxed Scott Wilson so many times that it lead him to sythe him down from the back. Straight Red Card.
Early in the second half we worked the ball out on the right to Tom Boyd who put in a great cross. In the middle Lubo hovered like something from the Matrix and bulleted a header past Niemi. 2-0 against the Huns and they're down to ten this can't get any better. Hold that thought it can. Excuse any inaccuracies with times because it was a bit of a blur. Henrik made it 3-0 after a great through ball from Donnelly. If you watch replays of it Hendry actually pushes Larsson onto his stronger foot, now that's how to defend kids.
At 3-0 I thought its safe enough to go for a piss, standing at a urinal with 10 other guys singing and shouting should be weird but it wasn't that day. As we emerged from said toilet we stopped dead as we heard the tannoy announcing "The scorer No. 8 Van Bronkhorst". We all look at each other, paused, shrugged our shoulders and carried on singing. It was that kind of day nothing was spoiling the party.
Henrik scored again from a Phil O'Donell ( God Bless You) cross, then the piss taking really started. "Always look on the bright side of life", " Walk with me Oh my lord", "we Can See You Sneaking Out" to name a few. However the next chant is still my all time favourite " I'd Rather Be A Doctor Than A Dick" whoever thought that one up you are a genius. Late in the game Mark Burchill came on and made it 5-1. 5-1......5-1 in my first Old Firm Game. There isn't going to be a game like that for a long time I thought. Little did I know I would only have to wait till August 2000.
Hope you enjoyed that, I enjoy reliving it.
Hail Hail.
Wednesday 16 November 2011
Sunday 23 October 2011
Where's the hunger?
I'm writing this in the Parkhead Bus Park and I'm thoroughly pissed off. Another 3 points but another torrid afternoon at Parkhead. We seem to have just been ambling along for the season so far, the style of play from last year seems like a lifetime ago. It's the same players, same management team. So whats the difference, players that were dynamic, hungry and would've run through a brick wall for the cause are lethargic and especially at Celtic Park look afraid sometimes. In the majority of games this season it's almost like apathy has seeped into the squad, like all they need to do is turn up for the 3 points. I've already said my peace on our defence as it's pretty obvious what their deficiencies are. For me the contrast in our midfield is alarming.
Last season at different points in the campaign Ki and Kayal played huge parts in our midfield dominance in big games, however the ever present in those big games was Joe Ledley. This year Ledley has been sacrificed in different positions to accommodate Ki and Kayal, even when Kayal has been off form or Ki has under performed. There is a lack of creativity in this midfield, we look like going back to 100 passes along the middle and then back to the centre half for a pointless punt up front. I can't remember when we scored from a cross into the box, every ball goes into the striker's feet with his back to goal. We have become predictable and slow in our build allowing teams to get men behind the ball.
The one time we played the ball quickly and crisply today we tore Aberdeen apart and scored a good goal. Straight after we scored we resorted to the slow build and played as if we were at Lennoxtown, and only came to life when the Dons equalised. I've got to ask the question, Is the hunger still there? Do the players think the games are going to be easy? Are players believing their own hype? All I know is there is a marked difference in some players attitude compared to last year. There must be a change in attitude if we are going to win the league, because on recent evidence we look like we could drop points in every game. For a Celtic team that is in my opinion is the worst crime you can commit, guys going through motions is a sure way to drive away the linters they worked so hard to get back into Parkhead.
I never like to be thus pessimistic when talking about The Hoops but I feel we have to turn the corner quickly to salvage our season. Can we win the league of course we can but it's up to the players, we've backed them up so far. The fans never stopped today, the turn out at Rennes was astounding and even at Kilmarnock at 3 nil down we were spurting them on. I just think some players ( I'll let you guys guess who im talking about) need to step up and repay the faith shown to them by the manager and fans alike.
Here's hoping for a turnaround.
Always Faithful Hail Hail.
Last season at different points in the campaign Ki and Kayal played huge parts in our midfield dominance in big games, however the ever present in those big games was Joe Ledley. This year Ledley has been sacrificed in different positions to accommodate Ki and Kayal, even when Kayal has been off form or Ki has under performed. There is a lack of creativity in this midfield, we look like going back to 100 passes along the middle and then back to the centre half for a pointless punt up front. I can't remember when we scored from a cross into the box, every ball goes into the striker's feet with his back to goal. We have become predictable and slow in our build allowing teams to get men behind the ball.
The one time we played the ball quickly and crisply today we tore Aberdeen apart and scored a good goal. Straight after we scored we resorted to the slow build and played as if we were at Lennoxtown, and only came to life when the Dons equalised. I've got to ask the question, Is the hunger still there? Do the players think the games are going to be easy? Are players believing their own hype? All I know is there is a marked difference in some players attitude compared to last year. There must be a change in attitude if we are going to win the league, because on recent evidence we look like we could drop points in every game. For a Celtic team that is in my opinion is the worst crime you can commit, guys going through motions is a sure way to drive away the linters they worked so hard to get back into Parkhead.
I never like to be thus pessimistic when talking about The Hoops but I feel we have to turn the corner quickly to salvage our season. Can we win the league of course we can but it's up to the players, we've backed them up so far. The fans never stopped today, the turn out at Rennes was astounding and even at Kilmarnock at 3 nil down we were spurting them on. I just think some players ( I'll let you guys guess who im talking about) need to step up and repay the faith shown to them by the manager and fans alike.
Here's hoping for a turnaround.
Always Faithful Hail Hail.
Tuesday 27 September 2011
Case for the Defence?
As we approach two big games this week, both domestic and european, we are saddled with the problem that has been holding us back for years. Since the days of Mjallby, valgaeren and Bobo we have never had a tight defensive unit. We've had good defenders in that time no doubt but never a back four or three that consistently works well together. I think you only need to look at the other lot to see what a tight defence can do for you. Where does the problem lie, Poor players, poor coaching who knows? All I know is when it comes down to the crunch Celtic tend to lose some of the softest goals you will see in top flight football anywhere.
Currently our backline seems to be different every game, be it from injury, suspension or just plain old rotation. In my opinion last year our best centre back partnership was Big Dan and Rogne, going back to the new year game at Ibrox both were dominant and didn't let anything get past them. Unfortunately Rogne seems to be injury prone because I think he is easily the best centre half at the club and still young as well. Charlie mulgrew is a good centre half but gets shunted around into midfield one game then centre half then left back, he has been the better of the centre halves so far. Kelvin Wilson looked promising early on then had a mare at Ibrox, hopefully derby day nerves and can move on from that. Big Dan hasn't looked anywhere near commanding as last year. Although I thought he finished the game vs. ICT well winning plenty of headers. Then we come to Loovens, one word, liability. For those that think I may be harsh on him I'm afraid I won't apologise, a player of his height and physique is what you look for in a defender. However what we have is a big Dutch centre half who when the ball is in the air looks terrified to go near it. Sometimes players just aren't good enough and Mr Loovens fits that bill.
So where does that leave us for the next two games, our full backs look in condition, so at centre back we have the choice of Big Dan, a now fit Rogne, Charlie or (shuddering) Loovens. I know who I would go with, for udinese Dan and Rogne with mulgrew at left back for the cup tied El Khaddouri. For Tynecastle, Rogne and Mulgrew. Let me know What you think of this folks. We have good defenders at our club we just need the right combination. Here's hoping for Two wins in the next few days.
Hail Hail.
Currently our backline seems to be different every game, be it from injury, suspension or just plain old rotation. In my opinion last year our best centre back partnership was Big Dan and Rogne, going back to the new year game at Ibrox both were dominant and didn't let anything get past them. Unfortunately Rogne seems to be injury prone because I think he is easily the best centre half at the club and still young as well. Charlie mulgrew is a good centre half but gets shunted around into midfield one game then centre half then left back, he has been the better of the centre halves so far. Kelvin Wilson looked promising early on then had a mare at Ibrox, hopefully derby day nerves and can move on from that. Big Dan hasn't looked anywhere near commanding as last year. Although I thought he finished the game vs. ICT well winning plenty of headers. Then we come to Loovens, one word, liability. For those that think I may be harsh on him I'm afraid I won't apologise, a player of his height and physique is what you look for in a defender. However what we have is a big Dutch centre half who when the ball is in the air looks terrified to go near it. Sometimes players just aren't good enough and Mr Loovens fits that bill.
So where does that leave us for the next two games, our full backs look in condition, so at centre back we have the choice of Big Dan, a now fit Rogne, Charlie or (shuddering) Loovens. I know who I would go with, for udinese Dan and Rogne with mulgrew at left back for the cup tied El Khaddouri. For Tynecastle, Rogne and Mulgrew. Let me know What you think of this folks. We have good defenders at our club we just need the right combination. Here's hoping for Two wins in the next few days.
Hail Hail.
Friday 16 September 2011
A New Hope
Although the end result was the norm in European away games, last night went some way to get some much needed pride back in the European arena. Even Craig Burley, the miserable bastard he is, was kind of complimentary towards our performance. The fact that we were never out of the game last night, even after going 2 - 0 down, against a team which cost probably ten times more than our starting line up gives me alot of hope.
Even though there was the customary early goal, the main difference from the usual away farces was the players got their act together almost immediately. 3 minutes after the opening goal good play between Samaras, Kayal and Hooper almost got the equaliser. Only a combination of a poor touch from Hooper and the pass being just behind him stopped that. The only time we looked vulnerable at the back in open play was at the second goal, only slight naivety by Mark Wilson let them in on the left flank. I think we can take some consolation that we were only breached by two players worth £60m combined. Our Midfield was solid and rarely gave the ball away, Kayal looking like his old self, Ki growing with every game and Ledley keeps the game ticking over effectively. James Forrest hopefully keeps progressing as he is and could be a great player.
The main thing I took from last night was at no point were we over-run at the back or midfield which normally happens on our travels. We didn't look out of place aginst a very good side, who I would say did well to snuff out Hooper and Samaras. With Udinese winning the other game in the group, the Udinese game at Paradise next could blow the group wide open. I can see the other 3 teams taking points off each other, Rennes look like a good outfit and will be difficult to beat. If we can have the sort of Home form we are accustomed to in europe and maybe grab a point on our travels we could be in good shape.
Hopefully the performance will give the players confidence to go to Ibroke on Sunday and take the game to the HMRC XI. Not going to speculate on team line ups for the game as normally I get it totally wrong. All i know is with the Huns using two new centre halfs it will be a different proposition than Bougey and the old man from last season. With the possibilty of Broadfoot playing left back and Forrest maybe on the right wing, anybody else getting excited, we can only hope Mo Edu keeps his place too. If we get it right in the midfield then things should fall into place, this was the case in the majority of Derby games last season. (Note I will no longer use the the term Old Firm, I urge you all to do the same).
To all attending Ibroke on Sunday like myself be careful, got a feeeling the anti - sectarian force will be looking to make an example. So think long and hard about your song choices.
Hail Hail
Even though there was the customary early goal, the main difference from the usual away farces was the players got their act together almost immediately. 3 minutes after the opening goal good play between Samaras, Kayal and Hooper almost got the equaliser. Only a combination of a poor touch from Hooper and the pass being just behind him stopped that. The only time we looked vulnerable at the back in open play was at the second goal, only slight naivety by Mark Wilson let them in on the left flank. I think we can take some consolation that we were only breached by two players worth £60m combined. Our Midfield was solid and rarely gave the ball away, Kayal looking like his old self, Ki growing with every game and Ledley keeps the game ticking over effectively. James Forrest hopefully keeps progressing as he is and could be a great player.
The main thing I took from last night was at no point were we over-run at the back or midfield which normally happens on our travels. We didn't look out of place aginst a very good side, who I would say did well to snuff out Hooper and Samaras. With Udinese winning the other game in the group, the Udinese game at Paradise next could blow the group wide open. I can see the other 3 teams taking points off each other, Rennes look like a good outfit and will be difficult to beat. If we can have the sort of Home form we are accustomed to in europe and maybe grab a point on our travels we could be in good shape.
Hopefully the performance will give the players confidence to go to Ibroke on Sunday and take the game to the HMRC XI. Not going to speculate on team line ups for the game as normally I get it totally wrong. All i know is with the Huns using two new centre halfs it will be a different proposition than Bougey and the old man from last season. With the possibilty of Broadfoot playing left back and Forrest maybe on the right wing, anybody else getting excited, we can only hope Mo Edu keeps his place too. If we get it right in the midfield then things should fall into place, this was the case in the majority of Derby games last season. (Note I will no longer use the the term Old Firm, I urge you all to do the same).
To all attending Ibroke on Sunday like myself be careful, got a feeeling the anti - sectarian force will be looking to make an example. So think long and hard about your song choices.
Hail Hail
Wednesday 24 August 2011
A Time For Calm
On Saturday I was one of the many at parkhead screaming and shouting at the abject performance by the team against St Johnstone. On the way home on my Supporter's bus the usual cliches were being reeled off. " We'll no win anything with this team" , " If I was Lenny I would walk away the noo!!!!", "I would've put Sammy on". The more I heard this bullshit the more I realised that some people in our support seem to like it when we go on a bad run. As it gives them plenty to complain about, guys that know where the manager is going wrong. Everyone can be guilty of this to a point, but some folk( in my experience) are never happy no matter how well or bad the team is doing. I can remember in Martin O'Neill's 2nd season we won the league by a record no. of points, scored a record no. of goals and conceded the fewest amount of goals for a long time. And a guy on my bus was filled with rage when we drew at home with the Huns, the only points we dropped at home that season, after we had won the league. My fear is that good work the support did last year could be undermined by a few dodgy results.
Let's look at the facts, the first leg against Sion we played well at the back and we controlled the midfield barring a 10 minute period in the second half. The big problem that night was in the final third, a front line of Stokes and Samaras that hasn't played together much and the constant switching of position during the match. Delivery from wide positions was particularly poor. And when chances did come our way we were very wasteful. Against St Johnston, well what can I say it was one of those games you don't want to watch back. Sorely lacking any passion or guile, players played within themselves and wilted under the pressure. It was more Tony Mowbray's Celtic than the team we saw last season. The only positive I can take from this game is it was early in the season and is hopefully a kick up the arse to some who have maybe got complacent over the summer.
So FC Sion it is tomorrow night, let's hope that Lennon can get the Bhoys up for this. I think we're overdue an away performance in Europe, with Kayal, Hooper and Kelvin Wilson possibly starting we should be in better shape than the last two games. And remember it has only been two games, I don't know about you but I've not given up anything yet.
Keep The Faith and Hail Hail.
Let's look at the facts, the first leg against Sion we played well at the back and we controlled the midfield barring a 10 minute period in the second half. The big problem that night was in the final third, a front line of Stokes and Samaras that hasn't played together much and the constant switching of position during the match. Delivery from wide positions was particularly poor. And when chances did come our way we were very wasteful. Against St Johnston, well what can I say it was one of those games you don't want to watch back. Sorely lacking any passion or guile, players played within themselves and wilted under the pressure. It was more Tony Mowbray's Celtic than the team we saw last season. The only positive I can take from this game is it was early in the season and is hopefully a kick up the arse to some who have maybe got complacent over the summer.
So FC Sion it is tomorrow night, let's hope that Lennon can get the Bhoys up for this. I think we're overdue an away performance in Europe, with Kayal, Hooper and Kelvin Wilson possibly starting we should be in better shape than the last two games. And remember it has only been two games, I don't know about you but I've not given up anything yet.
Keep The Faith and Hail Hail.
Tuesday 2 August 2011
Celtic Media: Doin' It For Ourselves.
About a year ago I was like the majority of Celtic fans frustrated with our clubs treatment by the mainstream media. Now however, mainly through twitter, a whole landscape of poignant, well balanced and humorous coverage of our great club. The Celtic online community is growing leaps and bounds, blogs, podcasts and radioshows are proving we don't have to sit and listen to Clyde and Sportsound's Ibrox propaganda machine. Worse than Keevins, Traynor and co I feel are the ex players who make their life cause to constantly attack the club where they made their name. Namely Nicholas, Provan, Walker and the worst Burley. That is the last I will mention these plebs, because of the multitude of outlets we now have I've not listened to or read anything they have to say or write.
However this new Celtic media isn't just a group of people moaning in chatrooms, this thing is going worldwide. With experienced journalsits like Brian McNally and Phil MacGiollaBhain giving alot of these sites etc. credibility many supporters concerns are not being dismissed out of hand as paranoia. As normally happens in Scottish Media. A couple of big shout outs have to go to Housey on Over and Over, the guys from The Lost Bhoys, for the podcast and Homebhoys phone-in. Rhebel Rhebel for a great blog and even better t-shirts, I-Celtic the best app on the I-Phone, which thankfully is coming back after the unfortunate accident involving the Cummings family. More recently new additions such as the Beyond The Waves phone in show, The Celtic Network and Sixty Seven Live, we are thriving.
The point I'm trying to make is, our voice is finally being heard. I'm sure I'm not the only one who feels proud to be a Celtic fan. Some of the banter is top class from a group of very fine people. Long may it continue. If anyone feels this article has been gushy and self-congratulatory. Then it was meant to be. God Bless the Celtic.
Hail Hail.
However this new Celtic media isn't just a group of people moaning in chatrooms, this thing is going worldwide. With experienced journalsits like Brian McNally and Phil MacGiollaBhain giving alot of these sites etc. credibility many supporters concerns are not being dismissed out of hand as paranoia. As normally happens in Scottish Media. A couple of big shout outs have to go to Housey on Over and Over, the guys from The Lost Bhoys, for the podcast and Homebhoys phone-in. Rhebel Rhebel for a great blog and even better t-shirts, I-Celtic the best app on the I-Phone, which thankfully is coming back after the unfortunate accident involving the Cummings family. More recently new additions such as the Beyond The Waves phone in show, The Celtic Network and Sixty Seven Live, we are thriving.
The point I'm trying to make is, our voice is finally being heard. I'm sure I'm not the only one who feels proud to be a Celtic fan. Some of the banter is top class from a group of very fine people. Long may it continue. If anyone feels this article has been gushy and self-congratulatory. Then it was meant to be. God Bless the Celtic.
Hail Hail.
Monday 18 July 2011
Here we go again. We're on the road again!
It's that time of year again, 2 months of anticipation nearly over. The season starts this weekend and I know some people may disagree but I'm glad of the quiet pre-season. After the last 3 seasons this is the first time we don't need to dismantle a shite team and try and build a new squad. We have a balanced squad that only needed a few new faces, with 3 players already in it's clear the general consensus is that a goalkeeper and a striker are still required. After a successful tour of Australia the squad look to have picked up where they left off, with 2 good performances against Perth and Melbourne. With the Dublin cup and trips to Wales and a game vs. Wolves at parkhead still to be played, we should have better preparation for europe than last year.
On Europe could this be the year when we finally turn up to an away game. Desperate for some success in away european matches if just to stop the Hun-friendly media rolling off our dismal record (Although Walter's 1 win in 23 games record seemed to get overlooked).
Another good thing about the pre-season has been the shameless backtracking from our neighbours in Mordor. For months of the takeover saga, the buzz word was Warchest. And what do find when it comes to the crunch,Coisty signing up Walter's players current and former. Surprise also that the financial backing from Whyte somewhat lacking. But don't worry Super Sally has been promised another £15M. Rangers fans beware because your new board is using the terminology our board uses when we're skint. I.e. Blue chip signing. In my opinion the money being spent at Ibrox is basically to make Rangers stand still.
Anyway enough about them, I'm looking forward to Sunday, even though I didn't get a ticket. Let's hope the Thunder gets even louder this coming season and keep supporting Neil and the lads.
Hail Hail.
On Europe could this be the year when we finally turn up to an away game. Desperate for some success in away european matches if just to stop the Hun-friendly media rolling off our dismal record (Although Walter's 1 win in 23 games record seemed to get overlooked).
Another good thing about the pre-season has been the shameless backtracking from our neighbours in Mordor. For months of the takeover saga, the buzz word was Warchest. And what do find when it comes to the crunch,Coisty signing up Walter's players current and former. Surprise also that the financial backing from Whyte somewhat lacking. But don't worry Super Sally has been promised another £15M. Rangers fans beware because your new board is using the terminology our board uses when we're skint. I.e. Blue chip signing. In my opinion the money being spent at Ibrox is basically to make Rangers stand still.
Anyway enough about them, I'm looking forward to Sunday, even though I didn't get a ticket. Let's hope the Thunder gets even louder this coming season and keep supporting Neil and the lads.
Hail Hail.
Wednesday 11 May 2011
Thunderstruck
Regardless of what happens tonight or Sunday, I still regard this season a success. For me the highs have outnumbered the lows in a season were the football has taken a back seat too often. That's why in this blog I will focus on the footballing matters of this season.
Having signed an entire team in the summer I was willing to sacrifice the league this year to let Neil Lennon build a team the way he wanted to. As long as there were signs of progress during the season I was happy with that in August. Braga and Utrecht were disappointing but I believe we're a different proposition now from then. Lessons were learned and the next 4-5 months were spent tinkering with formation and line ups to get the best system and starting XI. It was at this stage I feel we lost ground in the championship, the 3 draws in a row at home were crucial I thought.
The turning point obviously was the 2-0 win at Ibrox where Sammy made his once a season performance. From then on the shape in midfield was correct, the defence played as a unit and up front Hooper and Stokes started to click again. The only downside I've seen from this current crop of players is the ability for 9 or 10 of them to have a bad day at the same time. Although this has happened only twice in the league (Motherwell and Inverness) and the league cup final. It's the timing that worries me. It has happened at crucial points, is it inexperience or is it bottle? Who knows, if we don't win the league hopefully it will be a lesson to the players and management, themselves still young.
All I know is with maybe two or three players over 25, this team is still young and still are not the finished article. Guys like Kayal Izzy and Ledley are not far away and play with a maturity beyond their years, while rough diamonds like Stokes have the tools to become great players. All in all I have never been more confident for the future with Celtic. A vision is in place and I think Neil Lennon can deliver.
I've saved the best for last, perhaps the best thing about this season has been the atmosphere has returned to Parkhead. Just as he promised back in June Neil has brought the thunder back. The majority of games the singing from the stands has been amazing and long missed. 9-0 against Aberdeen, the league and cup wins against Rangers and every time I hear Just Can't Get Enough. This has been a memorable year.
So with 3 games left let's do what we've done throughout the season stand with pride, back the Bhoys and give the team send off they deserve.
Hail Hail
P.s. If you haven't already, please come along to the John Kennedy Benefit match next Sunday. For a great player and a great guy.
Having signed an entire team in the summer I was willing to sacrifice the league this year to let Neil Lennon build a team the way he wanted to. As long as there were signs of progress during the season I was happy with that in August. Braga and Utrecht were disappointing but I believe we're a different proposition now from then. Lessons were learned and the next 4-5 months were spent tinkering with formation and line ups to get the best system and starting XI. It was at this stage I feel we lost ground in the championship, the 3 draws in a row at home were crucial I thought.
The turning point obviously was the 2-0 win at Ibrox where Sammy made his once a season performance. From then on the shape in midfield was correct, the defence played as a unit and up front Hooper and Stokes started to click again. The only downside I've seen from this current crop of players is the ability for 9 or 10 of them to have a bad day at the same time. Although this has happened only twice in the league (Motherwell and Inverness) and the league cup final. It's the timing that worries me. It has happened at crucial points, is it inexperience or is it bottle? Who knows, if we don't win the league hopefully it will be a lesson to the players and management, themselves still young.
All I know is with maybe two or three players over 25, this team is still young and still are not the finished article. Guys like Kayal Izzy and Ledley are not far away and play with a maturity beyond their years, while rough diamonds like Stokes have the tools to become great players. All in all I have never been more confident for the future with Celtic. A vision is in place and I think Neil Lennon can deliver.
I've saved the best for last, perhaps the best thing about this season has been the atmosphere has returned to Parkhead. Just as he promised back in June Neil has brought the thunder back. The majority of games the singing from the stands has been amazing and long missed. 9-0 against Aberdeen, the league and cup wins against Rangers and every time I hear Just Can't Get Enough. This has been a memorable year.
So with 3 games left let's do what we've done throughout the season stand with pride, back the Bhoys and give the team send off they deserve.
Hail Hail
P.s. If you haven't already, please come along to the John Kennedy Benefit match next Sunday. For a great player and a great guy.
Tuesday 26 April 2011
Focus, Focus, Focus
After Sunday's game with Rangers we control our own destiny. Win 6 games and we win the Double, it really is that simple. Dougie, Dougie. Dallasgate, Old firm games all mean nothing now. All that has happened this season, good or bad, should be put to the side and all focus should be on the next game. Don't want to put a dampener on things but 2005 Fir Park still wrankles in the pit of my stomach, if that fateful day taught me anything it was that you should never get ahead of yourself. That season we were in a better position than we are in just now. Saying that Neil Lennon and Alan Thompson were on the pitch that day and I'm sure they will have drummed it into the squad that there is still a job to do in wiining the remainder of our games.
Dundee United at home on Sunday could be tricky, if the last home game against St Mirren is anything to go by. Too many nervy games at Parkhead this season, one goal up going into the last ten minutes in many games has shortened my life considerably in the last 8 months. I know at this stage of the season it is difficult to keep a quick tempo, but in most games we start brightly we win comfortably. This can happen if we start with our best 11, I'm not a big fan of rotating the team. Especially in the midfield, teams like Barca can afford to do this as they have players who can drop in seemlessly. I'm afraid we can't do this, evident in the old firm game and the St Mirren game. Too many changes in the midfield leaves disjointed and our passing game disappears, Kayal and Ki together doesn't work for me. I don't have a great explanation why not, it just doesn't seem balanced. With Ledley out for the rest of the season I would have central partnership of Brown and Kayal with Commons on the left or right and between Maloney, Forrest , Paddy and Freddie filling the other slot.
The defence I think picks itself now, so onto the attack. This is cut and dried for me, Stokes and Hooper all the way. The game on Sunday proved to me again that Samaras can not play with a partner up front, too many times he drifts wide and leaves his strike partner isolated, whether it's Stokes, Hooper or even Murphy. I Know Big Sammy has a lot of admirers but afraid I'm not one of them, Two league goals (albeit at Ibrox) is not acceptable for a Celtic striker, even Kenny Miller scored 4 goals and he was shite for us. I just don't see what he brings to the team, I've yet to see his amazing workrate that some people talk about. He doesn't set up goals and he doesn't score them either. Sorry if you think that's harsh but Have out uo with the BIg man for too long now.
Hopefully I don't sound too pessemistic because i know we are more than capable of winning these games. However the word that has become more and more prevelant is 'BOTTLE'. This is going to play a big part in winning the league. So let's hope the next six games are as comfortable as possible because I'm losing enough hair as it is.
Hail Hail.
P.s. Heard rumours of a possible takeover at Ibrox, might want to keep an eye on that. 48 hours people, 48 hours!!!!!!
Dundee United at home on Sunday could be tricky, if the last home game against St Mirren is anything to go by. Too many nervy games at Parkhead this season, one goal up going into the last ten minutes in many games has shortened my life considerably in the last 8 months. I know at this stage of the season it is difficult to keep a quick tempo, but in most games we start brightly we win comfortably. This can happen if we start with our best 11, I'm not a big fan of rotating the team. Especially in the midfield, teams like Barca can afford to do this as they have players who can drop in seemlessly. I'm afraid we can't do this, evident in the old firm game and the St Mirren game. Too many changes in the midfield leaves disjointed and our passing game disappears, Kayal and Ki together doesn't work for me. I don't have a great explanation why not, it just doesn't seem balanced. With Ledley out for the rest of the season I would have central partnership of Brown and Kayal with Commons on the left or right and between Maloney, Forrest , Paddy and Freddie filling the other slot.
The defence I think picks itself now, so onto the attack. This is cut and dried for me, Stokes and Hooper all the way. The game on Sunday proved to me again that Samaras can not play with a partner up front, too many times he drifts wide and leaves his strike partner isolated, whether it's Stokes, Hooper or even Murphy. I Know Big Sammy has a lot of admirers but afraid I'm not one of them, Two league goals (albeit at Ibrox) is not acceptable for a Celtic striker, even Kenny Miller scored 4 goals and he was shite for us. I just don't see what he brings to the team, I've yet to see his amazing workrate that some people talk about. He doesn't set up goals and he doesn't score them either. Sorry if you think that's harsh but Have out uo with the BIg man for too long now.
Hopefully I don't sound too pessemistic because i know we are more than capable of winning these games. However the word that has become more and more prevelant is 'BOTTLE'. This is going to play a big part in winning the league. So let's hope the next six games are as comfortable as possible because I'm losing enough hair as it is.
Hail Hail.
P.s. Heard rumours of a possible takeover at Ibrox, might want to keep an eye on that. 48 hours people, 48 hours!!!!!!
Friday 15 April 2011
Turning of the Tide.
What a week this has been, starting of with outrage and ending in hilarity.
I don't think I've ever seen such a swing for one club to go from high to low.
First let's deal with the outrage as short lived as it was. Coisty, Bougy and Dioufy all getting off for their part in the 'Shame Game' was nothing short of laughable if not predictable. This decision means any player can now attempt to stop a referee from brandishing a card to him or one of his teamates. Also u can refuse to leave the pitch after being sent off and go on a lap of honour and throw your shirt into the crowd. Is this the major changes the SFA were talking about after the McLeish Report. Kind of makes the Police and First Minister's involvement after the game even more comical.
Now we come to the hilarity, like many of you I was enjoying a quiet night last night. Listening to the Radio Snide phone in, hearing Huns calling us paranoid, thinking the whole world is out to get us. When they announced a breaking story, UEFA have charged Rangers for sectarian singing in the home leg vs. PSV as well as the away leg....ha ha ha!!!!! Cue the clamber of calls, UEFA are out to get us, Celtic fans dobbed us in, it's all Neil Lennon's fault and so on. Each call thereafter from most Rangers fans were basically same. Who reported us? Completely missing the point, did you sing sectarian songs? At no point has this question been answered no. The funniest part of this must go to Stephen Smith of The Rangers Supporter's Trust. When interview on Sky Sports News, he launched a staunch defence of his club. How a deliberate campaign against Rangers from 'Other' parties were trying to put the lug out of business. Then when pressed for answer to the question " Where these songs being sung at Ibrox?", by Jim White ( who would've believed that)he responded after five seconds ....... Well aye. Can't make this shit up can you.
For me this is where the problem lies, for too long the acceptance that people have been singing that for years just doesn't wash these days. Police , Scottish parliament and the mainstream media with a few exceptions, ignored the problem at the recent cup final. Calling it a showpiece for Scotland, well that sums up Scottish culture for me "We are all for ethnic diversity, except for the Catholics and the Irish"
However there is a much more pressing matter to deal with than social prejudice, and that is Rangers troubles with UEFA could derail the fictional , sorry proposed, Fakeover, sorry did it again, Takeover by Craig Whyte. I'm sure Davie Weir was an S-Form at Falkirk when this due diligence started on Whyte. Since this guys name was mentioned 6 months ago I find it funny that absolutely no reporting on his background business or personal has been looked into. Personally I would look into anyones psychological background who wanted to buy a club that has been in serious debt for the past 15 years, multiple pending tax cases and 5 UEFA charges in the last 5 years. Saying that I have heard that the next 48 hours will be vital.
In case you haven't noticed I have deliberately not mentioned Celtic in this article for the simple fact.......it's got nothing to do with Celtic.
Hail Hail!!!
I don't think I've ever seen such a swing for one club to go from high to low.
First let's deal with the outrage as short lived as it was. Coisty, Bougy and Dioufy all getting off for their part in the 'Shame Game' was nothing short of laughable if not predictable. This decision means any player can now attempt to stop a referee from brandishing a card to him or one of his teamates. Also u can refuse to leave the pitch after being sent off and go on a lap of honour and throw your shirt into the crowd. Is this the major changes the SFA were talking about after the McLeish Report. Kind of makes the Police and First Minister's involvement after the game even more comical.
Now we come to the hilarity, like many of you I was enjoying a quiet night last night. Listening to the Radio Snide phone in, hearing Huns calling us paranoid, thinking the whole world is out to get us. When they announced a breaking story, UEFA have charged Rangers for sectarian singing in the home leg vs. PSV as well as the away leg....ha ha ha!!!!! Cue the clamber of calls, UEFA are out to get us, Celtic fans dobbed us in, it's all Neil Lennon's fault and so on. Each call thereafter from most Rangers fans were basically same. Who reported us? Completely missing the point, did you sing sectarian songs? At no point has this question been answered no. The funniest part of this must go to Stephen Smith of The Rangers Supporter's Trust. When interview on Sky Sports News, he launched a staunch defence of his club. How a deliberate campaign against Rangers from 'Other' parties were trying to put the lug out of business. Then when pressed for answer to the question " Where these songs being sung at Ibrox?", by Jim White ( who would've believed that)he responded after five seconds ....... Well aye. Can't make this shit up can you.
For me this is where the problem lies, for too long the acceptance that people have been singing that for years just doesn't wash these days. Police , Scottish parliament and the mainstream media with a few exceptions, ignored the problem at the recent cup final. Calling it a showpiece for Scotland, well that sums up Scottish culture for me "We are all for ethnic diversity, except for the Catholics and the Irish"
However there is a much more pressing matter to deal with than social prejudice, and that is Rangers troubles with UEFA could derail the fictional , sorry proposed, Fakeover, sorry did it again, Takeover by Craig Whyte. I'm sure Davie Weir was an S-Form at Falkirk when this due diligence started on Whyte. Since this guys name was mentioned 6 months ago I find it funny that absolutely no reporting on his background business or personal has been looked into. Personally I would look into anyones psychological background who wanted to buy a club that has been in serious debt for the past 15 years, multiple pending tax cases and 5 UEFA charges in the last 5 years. Saying that I have heard that the next 48 hours will be vital.
In case you haven't noticed I have deliberately not mentioned Celtic in this article for the simple fact.......it's got nothing to do with Celtic.
Hail Hail!!!
Wednesday 9 March 2011
We are Celtic Not Old Firm.
I don't know about everyone in the Celtic community but I'm getting really pissed off hearing that the Old Firm have to clean up their act. I'm sorry but last Wednesday's Cup replay at the ground there were more Rangers players booked than Celtic fans arrested. I was looking forward last thursday to reading about another feckless negative display by Walter Myth's men. But what did we get, Neil Lennon causes Old Firm shame game. Another in a long line of attacks on Neil Lennon which stretch back to the day he arrived as a player in December 2000,only being guilty of being a Catholic man from northern Ireland who wanted to play for Celtic. and the justification for Neil Lennon being treated this way : His facial expressions get people riled up and then the trouble starts. This is not a direct quote but it was basically implied on a notable phone in show "cough Radio Clyde cough".
Although Neil Lennon needs to calm down a tad, why is the cheeky chappy Ally McCoist MBE DOB getting away scot free for his involvement in the fracas at the end. Well the tried and tested "it's not in his nature" excuse was trotted out like everytime someone connected to the Hun's does something out of order. Photos from the game have emerged of Super Ally practically jumping into the Celtic dugout, photos may I add that have not featured in any of the fine publications in Scotland. The spotlight has been shone on Lennon's reaction and not what may have been said to cause such a reaction.
So let's focus on the on-field issues from the game. Yet again we proved we can tow away the bus that is constantly parked in font of the Rangers' goal, this led to the game turning into a battle because these rangers now know they can't match Celtic in a football contest. Nor can they stifle celtic's play, so the next obvious step is intimidation and surprise that didn't work either. You know it must be a dirty game if Bougy get's sent off in an old firm game. He didn't need his customary 15 fouls before a booking. He even tries to stop the ref from brandishing the cards, how arrogant is that!!
I will say the Ref had a pretty good game. Fucking hell that felt wrong think part of my soul just died.
The reason I'm posting this today is because the subsequent aftermath of the game ending in yesterday's "Summit" at holyrood has been nothing but laughable. Accusations of racism and the destruction of society all because of Celtic and rangers games. Come off it!!! If there was no old firm game would there be a huge decrease in anti-social behaviour, No because if you're an idiot in daily life you'll find something to go mental about. Some stupid bitch get's voted of Dancing on Ice "That's it I'm going to smash some windows".
Society's problems run deeper than 24 guys acting like big kids for 90 minutes. Let's get a grip folks.
Hail Hail!!
Ps If you are on twitter and want to show your support for Neil Lennon follow:
@BackNeilLennon
Although Neil Lennon needs to calm down a tad, why is the cheeky chappy Ally McCoist MBE DOB getting away scot free for his involvement in the fracas at the end. Well the tried and tested "it's not in his nature" excuse was trotted out like everytime someone connected to the Hun's does something out of order. Photos from the game have emerged of Super Ally practically jumping into the Celtic dugout, photos may I add that have not featured in any of the fine publications in Scotland. The spotlight has been shone on Lennon's reaction and not what may have been said to cause such a reaction.
So let's focus on the on-field issues from the game. Yet again we proved we can tow away the bus that is constantly parked in font of the Rangers' goal, this led to the game turning into a battle because these rangers now know they can't match Celtic in a football contest. Nor can they stifle celtic's play, so the next obvious step is intimidation and surprise that didn't work either. You know it must be a dirty game if Bougy get's sent off in an old firm game. He didn't need his customary 15 fouls before a booking. He even tries to stop the ref from brandishing the cards, how arrogant is that!!
I will say the Ref had a pretty good game. Fucking hell that felt wrong think part of my soul just died.
The reason I'm posting this today is because the subsequent aftermath of the game ending in yesterday's "Summit" at holyrood has been nothing but laughable. Accusations of racism and the destruction of society all because of Celtic and rangers games. Come off it!!! If there was no old firm game would there be a huge decrease in anti-social behaviour, No because if you're an idiot in daily life you'll find something to go mental about. Some stupid bitch get's voted of Dancing on Ice "That's it I'm going to smash some windows".
Society's problems run deeper than 24 guys acting like big kids for 90 minutes. Let's get a grip folks.
Hail Hail!!
Ps If you are on twitter and want to show your support for Neil Lennon follow:
@BackNeilLennon
Sunday 6 February 2011
Midfield Always The Key.
Another Old Firm game down and another towering performance from our midfielders. This game proves yet again what I've believed for the past few seasons, We Are Better Than Them!!!!!! Can't put it any clearer than that.
It will be interesting to see how many pundits will have a go at Walter 'No Plan B' Smith after he parked the bus at home against ten men. I'm sure like many at the game today as soon as Forster went off and Whittakery scored the penalty I feared the worst. Half time wasn't very nice having to listen to the Shame during the break. However the siege never came, if anything we looked as if we had the one man advantage. Diouf looks like a Nacho Novo with a shittier haircut, kissing the badge and whipping up the crowd when he takes a corner or Throw in. Then there is Naisy, what a waste of space he is. A sour faced, cheating little Hun prick.
The tackle on Wilson might have been a Red Card on it's own and the dives inside the box were laughable, glad that would be seen worldwide.
This performance, never mind result, should give the squad and supporters further belief that we are more than capable of scooping the lot this season. In the last two seasons we have had the quality but not the bottle, it looks now we have both.
That's twice in a month I have left Ibrox feeling so good, let's hope we can keep it up over the next mont Bhoys and Ghirls. 'Mon the Hoops!!!
P.S. Where the Fuck did Broony get a left from ???
It will be interesting to see how many pundits will have a go at Walter 'No Plan B' Smith after he parked the bus at home against ten men. I'm sure like many at the game today as soon as Forster went off and Whittakery scored the penalty I feared the worst. Half time wasn't very nice having to listen to the Shame during the break. However the siege never came, if anything we looked as if we had the one man advantage. Diouf looks like a Nacho Novo with a shittier haircut, kissing the badge and whipping up the crowd when he takes a corner or Throw in. Then there is Naisy, what a waste of space he is. A sour faced, cheating little Hun prick.
The tackle on Wilson might have been a Red Card on it's own and the dives inside the box were laughable, glad that would be seen worldwide.
This performance, never mind result, should give the squad and supporters further belief that we are more than capable of scooping the lot this season. In the last two seasons we have had the quality but not the bottle, it looks now we have both.
That's twice in a month I have left Ibrox feeling so good, let's hope we can keep it up over the next mont Bhoys and Ghirls. 'Mon the Hoops!!!
P.S. Where the Fuck did Broony get a left from ???
Thursday 3 February 2011
Selection Headache, A Good Problem?
As we come to probably the biggest few weeks of the season, 3 Old Firm games and a trip to Tannadice, The Bhoys have hit form. Players are returning from injury and International duty respectively, meaning Neil Lennon has a few questions He must be asking himself.
1. Does he stick with the guys who have been doing the business for him lately?
2. Does he throw the fit again Rogne and Majstorovic into the Cup game on Sunday or stick with Mulgrew or Wilson?
3. How will the Midfield dynamic change now that Ki has returned from the Asian cup?
For me over the next few weeks it's a no brainer, since the turn of the year ( barring the draw at Hamilton ) the team has been playing some of the best football Parkhead has seeen in years. The main reason I think is stability in the starting XI, something we didn't have in the first half of the season. This I think can be put down to Neil Lennon finding the right mix of players and formation, I think we've found that right shape now, with 3 midfielders playing narrow and one further forward and wide on the left. Too many times this season and many before we seemed to play a 4-2-4 and were run over in the midddle against teams who packed the midfield. Now going by the last few games we seem solid in the middle and I think that spreads confidence to the defence knowing they are not exposed as much.
With this system as well players in our squad can slot straight in without much fuss. Guys like Ki, Forrest, Juarez, McCourt and Ljunberg are more than able to do a job when called upon.
In terms of the backline when they are all fit I think we should go with Rogne and Big Danny Huneater. Not since Balde, Valgaeren and Mjallby has our centre backs had a good understanding, although regarding this Sunday I would go with Mulgrew and Big Dan (if fit) only because the problems Rogne has had with injury in the past and maybe a good idea to give him more time to recover.
So onto the cup tie at Mordor, I have never given a prediction for an Old Firm game in my life and I'm not going to start now.... All I will say is IF we play the way we can and come out from the start in their faces then we are more than capable of winning.
Hail Hail
1. Does he stick with the guys who have been doing the business for him lately?
2. Does he throw the fit again Rogne and Majstorovic into the Cup game on Sunday or stick with Mulgrew or Wilson?
3. How will the Midfield dynamic change now that Ki has returned from the Asian cup?
For me over the next few weeks it's a no brainer, since the turn of the year ( barring the draw at Hamilton ) the team has been playing some of the best football Parkhead has seeen in years. The main reason I think is stability in the starting XI, something we didn't have in the first half of the season. This I think can be put down to Neil Lennon finding the right mix of players and formation, I think we've found that right shape now, with 3 midfielders playing narrow and one further forward and wide on the left. Too many times this season and many before we seemed to play a 4-2-4 and were run over in the midddle against teams who packed the midfield. Now going by the last few games we seem solid in the middle and I think that spreads confidence to the defence knowing they are not exposed as much.
With this system as well players in our squad can slot straight in without much fuss. Guys like Ki, Forrest, Juarez, McCourt and Ljunberg are more than able to do a job when called upon.
In terms of the backline when they are all fit I think we should go with Rogne and Big Danny Huneater. Not since Balde, Valgaeren and Mjallby has our centre backs had a good understanding, although regarding this Sunday I would go with Mulgrew and Big Dan (if fit) only because the problems Rogne has had with injury in the past and maybe a good idea to give him more time to recover.
So onto the cup tie at Mordor, I have never given a prediction for an Old Firm game in my life and I'm not going to start now.... All I will say is IF we play the way we can and come out from the start in their faces then we are more than capable of winning.
Hail Hail
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