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After their goal blitz last week on their travels, confidence must have been high in the Celtic ranks, but it turned out to be back to earth for them as they took on Portmarnock in Porterstown Park.
Within 6 minutes the home side was 0-2 down as the Port rocked them back in their tracks. Perhaps it was over-confidence but Celtic were not up to the pace at all, and were profligate when chances came. So it was looking ominous early on, but a Celtic corner from the right was met by Rhys McLoughlin who headed home to lift the home spirits. Rhys was up and down the park, and had to come ashore for a breather after suffering a blow to the ribs. But within another 4 minutes, the Port doubled their score and led 4-1. James Cremin who put in a great shift got his trademark goal when rifled home from 10 metres into the net for a brilliant finish. It was a tough battle out there, and Oliver Moore, who is a real battler, had to retire from the game with a sore foot. So they went to the break with 2 goals separating them. 2-4
The second half was more of the same, but this time stand-in goalkeeper Abdullah stopped everything that came his way which must have earned him the man of the match award. At one point in the game, he headed the ball clear in a most unorthodox manner when most would have caught it, but it was effective. He put in an inspired performance, and he stayed in goal for the full game because he was doing so well. He can look forward to returning to his more normal role outfield in the next game. Well done Abdullah.
Celtic in this second half were much tighter at the back. Joe Martin and Sebastian Balaban were now the back-2 after the departure of Oliver due to injury, and they alternated with Kenan Tutundzic and Kevin Balaban. All were battling so well now putting in a great display.
6 minutes into half, Dawid Nycz got control of the ball on the left and his trusted right foot buried the ball in the far corner of the Port net from 20 metres. Celtic were now in serious pursuit of equality. Minutes later it was the turn of Marcus Clinton and he had gone close on a number of occasions but eventually he got his reward and he levelled things with a brave finish midway into the second half. 4-4.
Celtic were fighting for every ball in an effort to get the winner. Andrew Maguire in the midfield was involved with his team mates as they built their attacks, while Sadjo was working the channels seeking the decisive openings. No breakthrough came for either side, and in the end a draw was a fair result. Full credit to both sides for serving up the most entertaining game, which was a lot better than what was happening at the City of Manchester stadium where the commentator was telling footballers to try and get their opponent sent off, yes that’s Gary Neville - nothing less than disgraceful, what a bad example is that?
Thanks boys for such great effort and playing football in the fairest of ways. 2 fabulous teams. Back to training on Monday where they will be looking at lessons learned today.