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Celtic comeback in Game of two halves sees share of spoils”
After an impressive start to the season Celtic’s winning run came to an abrupt halt against an impressive Greystones Utd. It was back to league business this weekend with the trip to Palmerstown FC. These teams met on the opening day of the season and while Celtic enjoyed the win it must be noted that due to injuries to their keeper and defender Palmerstown played for about 20 mins with only 8 players. This would be a test for both teams and an expectant support waited in anticipation.
From the off Palmerstown were up for this game and keen to show Celtic that when at full strength they are a force to be reckoned with. Celtic, on the other hand, looked lethargic and predictable in their play. For the first 15 minutes most of the play was in Celtic’s half as Palmerstown dominated the play. For Celtic Ryan Sherlock, who had a fine game, and Luke Hughes were called upon to clear their lines repeatedly while Ryan “Maccer” Mc Gregor made a crucial tackle on the left. Changes were made – Ben “Stevie G” Forde came in at centre mid and Conor Symmonds added the width. The fresh legs made a change – Luke came close with a long range effort before Esse Okirikpo, James Browne and Conor all had chances as Celtic upped their game. HT: 0-0
At half time the Coaches didn’t mince their words “Lads, you started the game as if you expected to win it but unwilling to put the effort into to do it. Now let’s go out there and show Palmerstown who you are”. Strong words indeed but honest and true. What would the Boys do? Heads down or heads up and chests out. The next 30 minutes would tell a lot about the teams Character…….
From the off we saw the real Celtic. Competing, passing, moving. Led by “Stevie G” the game was taken to Palmerstown. Caitlin La Bont was buzzing on the right ,Esse looked sharper and Andre Ungareanu was tuned in from the re-start. Chances were coming – another good one from Luke, a save from Esse and a mazy run by Caitlin. With 15 minutes left Celtic thought they had taken the lead. A lovely ball through from midfield to Esse who was a good 5 yards on side and in a sprint with the keeper there was only going winner as Esse touched the ball home. GOAL but no as the Ref inexplicably blew for off-side. Still a goal was inevitable and it came ……… ……….to Palmerstown. A swift break down the right and a delicate finish by their diminutive striker. 1-0 with the ultimate counter attack.
Celtic were feeling aggrieved but again the Boys kept their heads up as they battled back. Esse brought a save from the keeper then “Stevie G” showing a lovely bit of skill weaved his way through before forcing the keeper into a save. Minutes later Caitlin shot across the goal. With 7 minutes left Celtic got the goal they deserved when ace marksman Esse powered home from 10 yards. 1-1. Celtic went for the winner. More chances and more drama but still Palmerstown were dangerous on the break forcing one wonderful tackle by Denys Yaskersy. In a gripping finale Celtic forced 5 corners in the last 3 minutes and were denied what looked like a penalty but Palmerstown held out for what was , in a game of two halves, a fair result. FT: 1-1
What a game. Full of incident, drama and talking points. Credit to Palmerstown for their performance and to their Coaches for the improvement in their charges since the last time the teams met. They play nice football and but for a strong Celtic defence in the first 20 minutes could have been out of sight before Celtic came into the game. As for Celtic – poor preparation and warm up could of cost them dearly but let us also acknowledge the courage and character as the Boys transformed their performance and the game with a passionate second half display. The Celtic supporters clearly agreed as they applauded the lads off the pitch . From both spectators point of view this was a great game. In a game of two halves - Palmerstown dominating the first only to be thwarted by a Celtic rear guard action and the second half a complete reversal as it was the Palmerstown defence that did their best version of the “Alamo” – a draw was a fair result.
Finally a special mention to two players – Ryan Sherlock who looked to be re-discovering his top form and Ben “Stevie G” Forde who showed when he came on what a good player he is and if he can keep that form up Celtic will have a tough job fending off the Premiership scouts. Well done lads. See you all Tuesday
