- OUR PARTNERS
Another great battling performance by Celtic in what they knew would be a severe test as their opponents had beaten them 2-0 a month earlier, their only defeat so far this year. It was an evening kick off in Sutton under leaden skies, yet again.
Celtic were well prepared by coach Craig McGivern and they created numerous chances. They came up however against one of the best keepers in the age group. Matthew Flanagan made a succession of saves from efforts of the Celtic boys, many of which were made by coming off his line early to make vital interventions. At the other end, Theo Hennessy was in equally good form and had to be alert to keep Mid Sutton at bay. Matthew was unable to do anything about Celtic's first goal. Costel Burlacu delivered the perfect cross from a corner kick that Rei Mulligan was perfectly positioned to head home. Mid Sutton were threatening also. One thunderous drive from 15 yards whizzed over the crossbar. Half time 1-0
Coach Craig got his message across at half time that his players would have to up their game as Mid Sutton were being very very competitive. The Celtic lads did not disappoint their enthusiastic and nervous spectators.
Alvaro was making great runs at the home defence. He had to come off the pitch for attention to his mouth, while Joseph Dunne came ashore after being hit in the chest. It was like a battleground, though all very fair. James Bannerman was on fire as he chased every ball, pursued on occasions by the Sutton keeper on 2 occasions out as far as the corner flag. It was all hands to the pump. Pedro was again like a man possessed. These lads know no fear, tackling like their lives depended on it. Ren moved to central defender to replace Joseph and was again playing a captain's role. He was flanked at the back by Ahmad Niazi who tackled relentlessly on the right, while Conor Lawless was yet again showing his qualities, having secured possession at the back, he went on foraging runs forward in an attempt to put more daylight between the teams. 1-0 is a narrow margin and so it was very important when the dynamic James seized on the ball in the home penalty box and he coolly side-footed the ball into the empty net. More great celebrations.
It was clear that MS would bounce back as they have a resilience about them. They were denied initially by a diving save from Theo who pushed the ball around the post. Then they broke through again and an excellent strike by Adam Dipski was just out of the reach of the diving Theo. 2-1 to Celtic and so it remained till the end. A priceless 3 points as they continue to enjoy this epic league adventure.
