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Knocklyon clinical finishing sees sorry Celtic put to the sword”
The Celts have been having a difficult time of late. Last weeks inexplicable loss to Phoenix highlighted the teams inconsistent performances. In recent times this inconsistency and a tendency to shoot themselves in the foot by conceding careless goals with unforced errors has seen the Boys languish in mid table. Today would be a real challenge away to Knocklyon Utd. Last season Knocklyon were cruelly pipped for the Major League title in the last game of the season and remain a force to be reckoned with. Still where better than a game against one of the top teams to see if Celtic could get back on track.
From the start it was evident this was not going to be Celtics day and it wasn’t long before they were a goal down following some calamitous defending which saw the Knocklyon striker gratefully accept a tap in with less than 10 minutes on the clock. Moments later it was 2-0. A long hopeful ball saw Celtic concede a needless free kick but there was no denying the quality of the strike that gave keeper Tommy Bowe no chance. Celtic to their credit worked hard in search of a goal. Kiano Ryan, Leigh Reilly and Antonio Neto all created good chances but their efforts were well saved by the imposing Knocklyon No 1. Indeed the nearest Celtic came to a goal was from a Mark Hughes corner where Donatus Mweke rose like an eagle to power his header down low past the keeper before hitting the knee of the well placed Knocklyon defender. HT: 2-0
The second half mirrored the first , Celtic seeing a lot of the ball but not creating any clear cut chances. Knocklyon always looked comfortable breaking with consummate ease and it was following one such break that Knocklyon scored an excellent third finished with a delicious lob over the keeper into the net 3-0. As the game entered its final quarter Celtic did create two excellent goal scoring chances but a bit like their performance on the day they lacked the composure to get themselves back into the game. FT: 3-0.
All in all a poor day at the office for Celtic who continue to struggle. This was the first time in four years they have lost two on the trot. Worrying times indeed but even the best go through bad patches and we have every confidence that this motley crew can bounce back in style. It starts with training on Tuesday and we build from there.
As for Knocklyon, this was an important and deserved win for their team. Solid in every area and clinical with the opportunities created. They will climb the table swiftly if they keep up this level of performance. Well done
