-
go for it
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well done padraig
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second try
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test
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Can anyone please e-mail me a P2P link to tonight's match?
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the omens are good for tonight, we'll get a result even if it's a bad one :-)
Hail Hail
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Tinytim
check your blog
Peat
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TinyTim,
your e-mail address is not on your blog.
Hail hail
Estadio
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HHBhoy
Have you been on the banana juice:o)
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More thoughts on WOW's
Scott brown may well turn out to be one of Celtics greatest signings ever, he may not as well.
My question is how can you call him a WOW signing?? We throughout the years have plundered the SPL's best talent which comes as no surprise, so Brown is never a WOW signing. In fact Donati is closer to that mark but hardly a WOW either. Its all very well talking about being more mature with the signings this season. You could read that as we will have quantity over quality?
Strachan is now on team 3 but there is still to many wholesale changes for my liking. Auld Fergie has the right idea. Build a good solid team and supplement it each summer with a few WOW's, not this mass clear out and rebuild. I believe we should still get rid of Pressley,Hartley, Jarosik, Gravesen, Miller, Virgo, Riordan and maybe even Wilson and Caldwell and replace with 4 top quality (WOW) signings and continue with the quality each close season and not mass numbers. Rant over!!
-
yeth
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Bhoy Molloy, you don't like wholesale changes, yet you reckon we should get rid of 9 players.
???
I agree with you on the wow factor, still waiting on that here too.
Hard To Please CSC.
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Bhoy_Malloy,
Scott Brown is a GIRFUY signing with a WOW price tag
Hail Hail
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-
Bhoy_Molloy
And if those named individuals don't want to leave without a bumper payoff what then?
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Bhoy Molloy, why the fixation with WOW signings?
Great for the kids and the newspapers, but they have no correlation to great Celtic teams in the past.
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Estadio (The Genius)
my email is andrew.watt16@btinternet.com
cheers.
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Does anyone have a web link for tonights match
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Come on the Hoops.
We don't care if we win, lose or draw.
-
-
Testing, testing
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Paul67,
I remember last season "exceptionals" that you peddled. The WOW is the same, the bluechip whatever its called. In the space of 12 months you have went from "exceptional" to a more mature signing policy. Well thats your call. Me, I love to see (i am not greedy) the odd player come here from a top side with a proven track record. There has not been many but its great when it happens.
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Hi there, new to posting on the ite, but read whenever new articles come on and always enjoy the ensuing debate.
I just subscribed to Channel67 to watch the match tonight and was wondering if anyone else is a subscriber and is it worth it? At £4.99 a month it doesn't seem too pricey anyway.
Paul67, always an informative read, keep up the good work!
Cheers!
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Bhoy_Malloy
I don’t think it’s WGS intention to buy and sell on players like you suggest. I’m sure he bought in the likes of Jiri, TG and others to become a permanent part of the team. We all know that some players don’t fit into the jigsaw, but that can only manifest itself on the playing field. Life would be a lot easier if signings turned out the way you hoped they would.
Other signings are stop gaps due to injuries, and not part of the overall plan.
HH
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Anybody having trouble with the link to the game?
Same link as the other night apparently
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Ardoch said...
Bhoy Molloy, you don't like wholesale changes, yet you reckon we should get rid of 9 players.
???
Thats correct. I wish it did not have to happen but thats how it looks for team 3. Littered with journeymen and very unfortunately 2 failed "exceptionals" This year is a double whammy for me. I am as worried about certain players leaving as I am about the quality coming in.
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wgs
Is that the channel flix one ? If so then yes.
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The MLS tv channel is showing the game for $4.95,or~£2.50
I guess the answer to my own question is the game kicks off soon.
DBBIA/Billyno-matesCSC
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Bhoy Molloy, they have their place; they sell tickets and merchandise. I agree with HHBhoy on Scott Brown, he was box office. I would settle for a couple of reliable pros.
Porridgeandbananas, you are very welcome. C67 is excellent.
DD, I’ll ignore that.
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channelflix is supposed to come on after 8.45
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Danny,
Yep
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Paul...Apologies!
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Porridge,
Ch67 is fine. Comms are a bit inane....but most comms are...:)
Any other link is taking money away from Celtic. Not very responsible.
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Paul67 said...
Bhoy Molloy, they have their place; they sell tickets and merchandise. I agree with HHBhoy on Scott Brown, he was box office. I would settle for a couple of reliable pros.
Like Pressley and Hartley or like Sol Campbell and Ryan Giggs??
-
I am only saying those 2 cause I've heard their names linked.
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bhoy molloy
consider this
look at boruc and nakamura
imagine u saw them doing what they do for us at other clubs and we signed them.................
they would be "WOW" signings!?!?........i am sure some people would agree they would?
goes to show its not all about WOW signings
JVOH was also probably a WOW signing
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anyone after a link to the game just go to the celtic forum on bbc. As others have said you need to load the software but seems ok.
Weeron
I have a season ticket
Sky sports
Setanta
Celtic TV
Celtic get enough out of me.
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Bhoy Molloy Jarosik was never an exceptional player, and Graveson had stopped being one a year or so before we bought him.
It surprises me though that we have been unable to move on either of them. With Jarosik having done well at Bimingham I thought we would be able to move him on easily.
Going back to the wow factor, the last player who genuinely had me really excited at the thought of watching him play for the hoops was Jorge Cadete, as I knew he could score goals for fun in scottish football. It was a shame how things worked out there, he really could have scored a barrowload for us. More than Larsson if he had stayed with us for the same period of time I think.
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dontbrattbackinanger
i don't see it on the mls tv schedule?
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No changes at the back.
McGeady and Capone in midfield. Magic to accompany JVOH.
'GG
-
Boruc
Wilson
Pressley
McManus
Naylor
Capone
Brown
Hartley
McGeady
JVOH
Zurawski
-
JVOH was a top drawer signing and will be our no 1 striker next season.
The signings of Gravesen, Jarosik and JVOH last summer was very exciting. Its not really happened yet for me.
-
So much for 2000 kick off -
Franny - go into my blog via my blogname and check the comments on most recent post, should get you in
Emdy else provide a quicker link via my blog for ma wee brer and nephews ?
WG
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bhoy_molly
still wondering your thoughts on my point re naka and boruc?
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I hope this is an experiment as the thought of Pressley and hartley as starting regulars gis me the willies.
-
Antsman-mea culpa,for that piece of duff gen.
Bring back Scotsport for Aul'hauns.
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'Mon the Hoops!
Teams just coming out the Tunnel.
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antsman said...
bhoy_molly
still wondering your thoughts on my point re naka and boruc?
We have made these guys WOW signings for other teams if they were to sign them (Spurs or Villa for example), but they were unknowns when they arrived at Celtic Park.
I did not take a sharp intake of breath and go "Ya beauty".
-
it's so much better to have a US Tour game that's not in the middle of the night. The Star Spangled Banner is being played just now.
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what channel/sites can the game be viewed on this evening ?
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maleys bhoy, it's on C67.
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bhoy_molloy,
I share your concerns over the idea of Pressley & Hartley being first picks.
However, I'd like to think that Hartley has been given starts in both US matches because he wasn't involved in the earlier pre-season games in Switzerland & England.
I'd like to think it...
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Game on live for US Celts on Fox Soccer Channel.
Ch67 resolution is very poor.
So it's FSC for vision. CH67 for audio.
Weather conditions could prove a problem. Weather channel say temps around 80. Probably humid as well.
'GG
'GG
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ah, the huddle. only ten minutes after the Teams came out the Tunnel. Almost ready to go, then.
-
Team News:
Boruc; Wilson, McManus, Pressley, Naylor; Capone, Brown, Hartley, McGeady; Zurawski, Vennegoor of Hesselink.
Subs: M.Brown, Balde, Irvine, Gravesen, Donati, Miller, Riordan, McDonald, Killen
Come on the hoops!
Lubo.
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kickoff. 'mon the Hoops!
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Is the game on TV back home?
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Where and how are you watching it matt?
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Gweedorebhoy,
I guess we come from different places on that issue. If Celtic are selling it, that's where I'll buy it.
If enough people went the other way, there would be no Celtic.
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Tidy start by the Fire, Celtic under some pressure already.
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San Frantic,
No, only on Ch 67.
Lubo.
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"Cor blimey.
CH67 audio is about 30 secs behind TV.
Bang goes that idea then.
'GG
-
it's not on TV in Scotland, I'm watching seriously grainy pictures on C67. :-(
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Even, but much more composed start from Celtic.
-
Hartley shot from distance well over.
-
Hartley has a dig from 35 yards out with not much movement in front of him, goes 3 or 4 feet over the Bar.
-
Early days, but....
A reasonable start. Hartley looking busy. Unlike Capone. Surprised that different CB's not being used....
-
Good move , poor cross McGeady
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911 (999) situation in the Celtic defense
-
Celtic looking a bit more direct.
Magic cross is long.
Playing going from end to end.
Corner to Fire.
-
Corner Chi-town, good punch Boruc
-
Hartley playing himself to difficulty and concedes a corner from just inside his own half. :(
-
Hartley messes up in the middle of the park and ends up giving away a corner.. which nearly lead to a goal .. lucky we have Boruc..
-
No Lennon to blame for the slow build up!!!!!
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Artur almost caught out with corner.
Phew.
-
I've got Audio link to Ch. 67.
Anyone got a video link that works for Mac?
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JVOH offside but hammers it home.
Confidence builder?
-
JVOH great goal, offside called - correctly
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JVoH has the ball in the Onion bag, but the flag was up. good finish, but he was half a yard off as the ball came through
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testing
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Quick break from Celtic.
Magic looks energetic.
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We've had a couple of crosses so far, without really getting anyone in the box challenging for them.
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Any live feeds folks?
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Hi Guys
Have been out all day, so haven't read the posts
Is there a URL to the game, even if it's PPV?
Thanks in advance
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Good passes from Capone. Early doors as they say, but best display I have seen in the US ever. We look like we are better team.
-
Was magic not linked with a move to Fire?
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sounds like we have started with a bit more urgency tonight.
Wrote a big diatribe earlier, which was lost due to not having a google account and have messed about for an hour sorting it out.
You did not miss anything earth shattering!
Mon the hoops
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After 20 mins it's been a more positive start from Celtic.
We still haven't troubled the keeper yet.
JVOH and Magic have run a lot without really getting control of a ball.
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Corner Chicago.
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Corner came to nothing, some good tackling by Elvis, too.
-
sounds like we have started with a bit more urgency tonight.
Wrote a big diatribe earlier, which was lost due to not having a google account and have messed about for an hour sorting it out.
You did not miss anything earth shattering!
Mon the hoops
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Looks like a good turnout in the stadium again.
McGeady loses ball in midfield and Fire hit the bar.
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Fire chip onto the top of the Bar from the edge of the D. goalkick Celtic.
-
Fire stepping it up a litte - looking dangerous.
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Fire with lot of pressure. Lot os space give up by Defense. Chi skim the bar.
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FK Celtic
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not the first time headband has scythed down Aiden.
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Corner
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McGeady fouled outside box. Free kick about 12 yards from line.
Big men up. Headed for corner.
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Another corner
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heavy Challenge on McGeady, Freekick Celtic about 8 yards out near the left touchline. Comes in, headed behind, Corner Celtic.
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Sanfran
Aren't Fire regarded as a very poor team in the MLS this year?
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Any feeds guys?? PLEASE??
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nice wee move ... just overhit by Al. Coming more into the game.
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El Diego yeah they are not doing so well.
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Corner Fire. They head wide
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1 nil Fire. Balnco
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goal Fire.
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Goal Fire.
Centre of defence AGAIN.
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All in slo-mo.
-
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Ran on to his own pass. Played through Fire player off side so Blanco goes after ball. Celtic defense reacted too late.
-
Centre of defence slept ... very disappointing.
-
their striker was well off as a ball was played towards him, and the Celtic defence stopped. but the guy who'd played the ball through ran onto it himself and went round Boruc.
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Could have been called off side he ran after it once he saw his own player ould not cos he knew he was amile offside.
Fire lifted. Celtic can still win this one. Great ball Capone
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i know it's all about fitness but we need to get into the routine of shutting up shop at the back.
we are conceding every game.
we have a 2 legged cup final in a couple of weeks time.
the chance has been lost tonight.
We cannot allow this run to continue in defence or we are going to struggle.
Emjay
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The Chi-lites have a record of 4-8-4,so they're not setting the heather on fire.They're bottom of the Eastern Division,and are averaging less than a goal a game.
Heather Locklear.Hot,but not on fire.
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Commentators being nice about our poor display last week. Altitude etc. better display today. Against poorer opposition mind you. MLS all stars are a good team
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Corner Celtic. Capone to take.
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More Keystone Celts n defense Boruc punches clear
-
who are the main perpetrators of this defending?
I keep saying and saying we need a cb
Can not blame the heat for basic mistakes which it what it sounds like running through onto his own ball
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What are they for,these games?
Fitness?
Bonding?
Bedding in new players?
Gladhanding the locals?
Trying out new tactics and formations?
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Emjay
By the sounds of it.We are not creating a lot either.
I will get my first chance this season to us live on Thursday.However ,just like last season i am concerned.
The thing is, this year ,we won't have Neil lennon for the big games.He provided much need protection for the back four ,and he kept possession so that we could build up play,and not be constantly under pressure.
My one shining light is that we did win the double after a dismal pre season.
I wonder who can be blamed for our slow ponderous build up's now.
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JK and Mick starting center backs for me - elvis has left the building along time ago!
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Good save by Boruc after the ball came to an unmarked Fire forward at the edge of the box.
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carved open again. lost in mid. Pressley should have been carded for pull back.. Boruc earns his corn again
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What is the team?
-
predictions for the final score i think it will end 3-1 chicago fire
what aboot u
-
Half time at Toyota Park:
Chicago Fire 1 Celtic 0
Blanco (30)
Not a bad team performance by Celtic so far, certainly looking a lot more composed than on Thursday. Chicago's goal a product of the offside trap being caught out. Celtic however by no means out of this game.
-
We are managing to be as slow and uninspired in mid without N. Lennon going fwd without the protection he offered.
-
------------Celtic FC Chicago Fire
Total Shots:-------3---------9
Shots on Goal:----0---------3
Total Saves:-------2---------0
Fouls:---------------3---------7
Offsides:-----------2---------1
Corner Kicks:-----3---------3
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Pressley can be embarrassing sometimes....:( Little is working for Aiden. I don't see Capone getting a contract.....and it seems like a long time since we got a real good game out of Mark Wilson.
The biggest weakness that I can see is that the ball NEVER sticks with the strikers. JVOH doesn't hold it up that well.....and majic is made of chocolate. He never wins or keeps a ball when there is an opponent in the neighbourhood.
This is not a bad game, though. Hartley is busy, as is Brown in fits and starts.
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ANYONE got a link to this game??
Really wanna see second half...
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ANYONE got a link to this game??
Really wanna see second half...
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Dontbratbackinanger.
I understand where you are coming from,but there doesn't seem to be any improvement in performance or tactical awareness.
We were caught cold against Artmedia.
Unless we shape up ,we are in danger of losing the biggest matches of our season.
Nothing is better for bonding than winning.Lets face it we are not facing Liverpool,Chelsea or Man U here.
This is bottom of the league outfit,from a very ordinary league.
Surely it's not too much to expect some shot's on goal ,and for us to create some chances.
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San_Frantic said...
carved open again. lost in mid. Pressley should have been carded for pull back.
Thats all he does, is foul on the edge of the box. How he is still with us and being considered a first choice is mind boggling. He really is an example of the old pals act.
-
does anyone know why my ch67 is now showing the Basle game?
-
i wonder why the games isnt being updated on live score ?
any1 watching argentina vs czech republic
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Lenspol
will be putting a comment on your blog shortly.
No links on this site.
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Need to be more parsimonious in mid, not protecting a defense that can not be relied on in a pinch. Little bit better going fwd. But like last year to slow and to predictable.
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Could someone please explain why Pressley gets so many games pre-season ? Stop-gap last year and P'eed off Rangers support when we signed him, but the joke is wearing thin now.
One more poster mentions him fouling near the box or pulling shirts.........arggggggh
-
My thoughts on the first half..
Chicago deserve their lead. Celtic have been quite poor and we have not looked at all like scoring.
Zurawski and JVoH do not look like an efective partnership, neither do Brown and Hartley.
There is no width in our play. It would be nice to see some bye-line crosses to JVoH or Zurawski.
Pressley is lucky to be on the field, on 2 counts.
Anyway, it makes me feel so proud to be a Tim, when you see so many hoops fans at a game over in the USA.
Lubo.
-
We are very poor in the final third and unable to retain possession, never mind do anything with it.
The Fure keeper has not been asked to make a save.
I echo the comments of San Frantic above: Neil Lennon got it in the ear for slowing things down. From what I have seen thus far there is no perceptible difference in the style or rythme compared with last year (clearly we are without the world class of Naka).
McManus playing ok. Brown also doing well. JVOH and Hartley (playing wide right) anonymous. Capone is ok, but not doing enough to justify a contract. McGeady poor. Wilson truly dreadful.
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tinytim,
i'm only going on the updates on here but boruc seems like the only guy who's up for it at the back.
As for up front it proves we're short of a quality striker who'll make the correct runs at the correct times as well as putting it in the net.
After much discussion in the pub after the scottish cup final i promised my Celtic mate who's a Gordon Strachan doubter, if Pressley and Hartley were first choice at the start of next season I would start to have my doubts about him also.
The transfer window is not shut yet.
I'm hoping Gordon is seeing what we're all seeing.
Emjay
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TinyTim,
I'd be MUCH happier if we were winning this game. However, there is a big leap in logic to suggest that this 45 minutes is an indicator of how we'll do in the CL.
Everything is geared to that qualifier. We have Newcastle and Parma to come. The idea will be for all of the important stuff to come together for the beginning of the competitive action. So, I can't agree with your logic.
That being said, living on this side of the pond, I REALLY want Celtic to do something over here. There's a lot of Tims taking their kids and Grandkids to these games.
-
No invention again.
We seem to lack the ability to string passes together.
Tinytim, Newcastle drew 1-1 with carlisle yesterday. Its preseason results are always strange.
-
HT stats. No shot on goal yet from celtic
-
Zurawski is going through the motions and will never play for us in a competitive game again.
-
We don't seem to have any fresh ideas Mr Strachan, it's all rather predictable.
I think we've seen enough of Stephen Pressley in the hoops.
I've really never have understood why Aiden McGeady is so highly rated. Space to the left and right but can still run into his marker and lose the ball, minimal pace and his shooting also provides a poor return.
Hope I can eat my words after the second half.
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I have just had a call from a pal at the game and according to him we look like we are going through the motions again.
He has spent a small furtune travelling accross country for this game, and for the fourth time in 3 seasons we have been poor.
Will there come a point where we become less of an attraction to sponsors and organisers as we only look interested in the money on these trips?
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Tinytim-already I am stocking up behind the settee for the CL Qualifiers.We don't seem any closer to a settled starting XI,and our getoutofjail card,SN,may come back from Asia either knackered,or godforbid injured.
Europe's not the SPL.You don't get any extra chances to redeem yourself.
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Emjay
If we fail to qualify for the CL then forget the transfer window.
-
Lost my HT report in Cyberspace. Probably just as well.
Pass marks: Boruc
Average:Naylor, Brown, Aiden, JVoH
Fail: Everyone else
Overall: Very dissappointing
-
Paul
Read what Weeron wrote...
He is One Hundred percent right...
What he said will get my Vote!
McGeady and Wison give the ball away...
To give the Ball away is Dismal and NOT THE WAY TO PLAY....
I think that BOTH these lads will NEVER LEARN.....
If they left the morra... that would be of NO CONCERN!
collie.
Tail's Awaggin', Awaggin'
-
Agree with weeron--makes me miss BBJ (the ball definitely stuck).
So far, Brown looks O.K. and Boruc (as always) worth his weight. For me, Wilson is the biggest disappointment so far.
Not to offer an excuse, but Chicago mid-day in late July is a sweltering, hellish inferno.
-
i really think celtic should get a partnership in defence and in midfeild quick i mean celtic could be ahead if nakumura was playing but hes playing with japan
if celtic want to win the league they need to think fast
can someone tell me celtics fixtures
oh ye celtic did poor last year in us tour but they went to england after that against chelsea and managed a 1-0 result against them
and they have newcastle on thursday
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Teams coming back out.
-
Teams coming on 2nd half.
Hopefully we'll see some commitment. Unfortunately Elvis has found his way out of the dressing room.
'GG
-
Where is the head, the heart and the soul of this team? We are the Tin Man, the cowardly lion, the scarecrow.
Why hasn't someone put the fear of Gemmell into the Carr with the headband?
-
Second half kicks off now.
-
No changes. WGS has the Fire licked here. Donati (sp) warming up if that is required in Chi-town in July.
Chi manager talked abut what he told his team. he are handling their diagonal balls from the fullback. No real threat
-
Mark Brown and Donati on for Boruc and Capone.
-
Brown on for Boruc
Donati on for Capone.
-
Fire blaze over the bar
-
You have to wonder where the flair would come from if Naka was to get a long term injury. Eggs in one basket springs to mind.
-
Fire finding huge gaps in Celtic defence. Ball goes over bar.
Brown in goal BTW.
-
brown for Boruc.........
-
That switch should turn the game in our favour.
-
Taking off Boruc shows that we've no real desire to win this game or put on a display if you ask me. Since he's the one player who looked the part in the first half.
"The summer's over"
Indeed....
-
i think celtic should bring we paul mcgovern a chance in goals
-
These games are not cheap.US fans expect value for money,and they expect a contest.We'll be getting called Celtic-Zip over there.
We should sign Princess Leia[+/-gold foil bikini].She knew how to shift the Wookie.
-
Why is there no Coors sponsorship like Previous US trips ?
-
Shooting practice for Fire. thankfully the need it
-
tinytim,
you're point about lennon is fair enough.
i still think it was right to make it his last season but i agree we need someone like him again to help out this defence.
Possibly big Evander when he's fit. We need someone the now to protect this defence.
Elvis played exactly the same way at hearts.
Once the guy was by him he pretended he was fouled and sometimes got away with it. Also a bad habit of pulling jerseys.
Lack of pace. Lack of physical presence.
We're thinking of getting rid of Bobo????
Unbelievable.
We've heard Bobo's time has passed.... Not the player we knew after the african nations.
I would have him in front of ANY player in Scotland at present for our centre of defence.
Can someone explain why Bobo's time is up but obviously Pressley's isn't?
Unbelievable.
Emjay
-
celticsepiroth, I don't see giving our no 2 Keeper a run out means we've given up on the game. He's the only Celtic Keeper to have kept a cleansheet so far this Preseason, after all...
-
Could be worse:
What me worry?
At least it's just football that we are bad at.
-
We shouldn't need someone to protect the defence, we should just get better defenders.
-
how pressley , hartley and zurawski get a game for us i will never know .
Pressley is shocking and should not be playing this season. he helped out last season and i thank him for that. Time to move on.
-
We are getting torn apart down our left side. Aiden isn't giving Naylor much help.
Donati looks like a decent player.
-
-
argentina have won the fifa under 20's trophey
2-1 against czech republic
-
Fire toying and emabarassing our defence.
-
Does McGEady actually know how to play a quick pass?
-
wee Aiden coudnae pass you in the street ... good save by Brown.
-
Anybody with any wisdom would retain Bobo and punt Pressley.
-
i agree with earlier comment
if we keep losing will we lose ant attraction over there
i know its pre season but surely we have a duty to the support who travel there to give them somthing?
-
Fire taking the piss. Blanco show boating. He should be called Mosses the way he is parting our defense.
-
good save by Brown, the Celtic defence again caught out trying to play the offside trap.
-
Wilson lost again!
-
Wilson lost again!
-
We're toiling against a side we should be dominating
-
Brown taking over where Artur left off.
We are under severe pressure.
Our midfield is not competing and our defence are half asleep.
-
Matt,
No offence to Brown. All I'm saying is that if the aim of this was to win the game, Boruc wouldn't have been subbed off while he was, in most people's opinion, the best Celtic player on the park.
It's all well and good to give Brown a run out. But doesn't strike me as a game saving change. That's all I'm saying :)
-
Subs 57 mins
Bjarnasson and plɐuopɔɯ ʇʇoɔs on for Hartley and Zurawski.
-
The best football of the game now The best football of the game now being played. I think the Celtic players agree as they are watching it too.
Teddy on for Hartley, McDonald for magic
-
RE Central Defence Problem.
I don't believe we have a quality central defender in the squad.
McManus - Average, slow & often caught ball watching but looks like he could be heading for captaincy!!!!
Pressley - No
Kennedy - Wait and see. Give the man some time, I hope he makes it but I have my doubts. 24 in a few weeks so he will need to make the step up soon.
Balde - Please leave
O'Dea - Promising
Caldwell - Shows promise, then lets you down, doesn't seem to learn by his own mistakes, which is worrying.
Virgo - A loan spell at M'well may do him good, appears to lack confidence. Don't think he realised the size of the club before he came. Twenty four but doesn't seem to be afforded the "youngster" tag that others are. Think he deserves a fair crack
Nobody else – That’s the worrying thing!!!!!!!!!! The weakest part of the team/squad and needs to be addressed
Strike me down, all who don’t agree but Stephen McManus, Celtic captain? I would rather it went to Boruc, Naylor or we sign a CAPTAIN.
are.
-
How strong is MLS football?
Would the better teams[and so far Chicago have not been one of those]be able to win the SPL?
Are the better teams ECL or UEFA cup standard?
-
Blanco going off. That was a nice gesture by the Fire manager cos he was running the show
-
McDonald giving us more up front than Magic did
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Boruc for captain. It never ideal having a keeper as captain but there in no outfield player up to the job. Mick may not retain a starting spot so it would be a risk giving it to him.
-
Celtic stringing a couple of passes together there, without creating much. Looks like we've more time in the middle of the Park now, though.
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Beattie like first touch from Teddy but at least he seems to be making an effort.
Good move down the left from JVOH crossed for McDonald but cleared for corner.
-
Good running from McDonald--almost got in.
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Good running from McDonald--almost got in.
-
AARRGHH!
The video stream on CH 67 is patchy and very unreliable..
The picture freezes all the time... or is that our tactics!
Frustrated Lubo.
-
Is McGeady wearing mascara?
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Corner Celtic, taken by Skoosh Brown, eventually comes to McGeady who shoots over from 20 yards.
-
i wonder why celtic arnt giving chris killen a try he was top goal scorer until that injury what kept him out of the rest of the season
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GG - Aiden has a black eye.
The formation is looking better with Donati and Brown in the midfield.
-
My feed is fine @ 508kbs
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Naylor down holding his wrist. seemed to fall on it with his weight.
-
chris,
killen is still injured.
Emjay
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Just a pity about the quality of play!
-
Dangerous cross from Fire. Elvis lost his forward but thankfully the cross eluded him when he was all on his own.
-
Naylor down?
No problem, bring on that other left back we've got....whassisname.....y'know......him?
Oh dear :)
-
awrite
cheers
emjay
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good save by Brown. Looks a good back-up keeper
-
good save by Brown. Looks a good back-up keeper
-
Central defenders stand off and keeper makes a good save.
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Fire open up again. Miis open goal then good save Brown
-
save by Brown, Chicago runner from midfield getting the shot away unchallenged from the edge of the D.
Corner comes to nothing.
-
sub 70 mins:
Riordan on for McGeady
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We need to remember that the manager and his coaching staff's objectives from each of the friendly games is greatly different from that of us supporters. No matter how unpleasant that is for us.
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McGeady off Riordan on for last 20 minutes.
Our central defence embarrassed again. corner.
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Celtic holding on, offering little. No standouts
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we are tarnishing our brand with these inept and frankly garbage performances
How much have good honest celts paid to travel and watch this rubbish.
They should get a refund
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El Diego
My earlier point exactly. But still, not pleasant reading.
Every time I refresh "Great save by Brown!"
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craig,
i'm saying he's injured but apparently he's on the bench.
i think he's recovering from an injury but agree i wouldn't mind seeing what he's like.
Is Pressley still on? that's it. i give up!!!
Emjay
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el diego bhoy
What ever happend to celtic dont play friendlys?
We lack shape and it looks like the team is just running around doing its own thing.
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JVOH great tackle to stop Celtic shot
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good run by Skoosh into the opposite box, but it was crowded, and he ended up running into JVoH.
-
Donati tries to lob keeper from 40 yds - over. Brown dod well before with a run into the box but was blocked by JVoH !
Bad miss by JVoH
-
i think riorden may pull a goal
when i was watching him on celtic t.v with the reserves hes good with his finishing
good goal scorer could be leaving for 500k tho
-
Double chance missed.
Fire goalie saves. Nice work from Donati.
-
SHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHOT Celtic!!!!!!!!
Celtic force save 75
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good save by the Chicago Keeper, plɐuopɔɯ ʇʇoɔs first, then JVoH in the follow up. It followed a good run by Riordan down the left side of the box.
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So Pressley is a stick-on for one the centre spots. Must be as he is getting a lot of time on the park.
-
Brown just kicked out at someone - lucky to get away with that
Killen on for JVoH
-
Don't even joke about that :|
-
Sub 77 mins:
uǝllıʞ sıɹɥɔ on for JVoH
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Killen on, JVOH off
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Gweedorebhoy
Pal of mine in US reckons he has spent about 1500 dollars in the last 3 seasons going to 4 games.
He made it home for 3 games last season and didn't see us win one!
Is Gordon Strachan going to play Pressley to prove a point till he gets injured?
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fabulous strike by DR - 1-1
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Wonder Goal Riordan
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GOAL RIORDAN first time Volley.
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WHAT A GOAL BY DEL BHOY 80'
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Riordan=Finisher
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Donati cross, volley from edge of box to far corner
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Can we pick it up in the last 10 minutes?
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Go DEEK.
Great goal.
Outside of the left foot volley.
Lubo.
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On th subject of Chris Killen.
I believe that he has a a very worrying record of missing far too many games due to injury.
Yet another signing that worries me.
He can score goals ,but he has to be fit to play first.
Anyway,good Luck Chris,Geezagoal.
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30yd cross field ball from Donati met with a left foot volley from corner of box into far corner. Class finish
-
lovely floated crossfield ball by Donati, Riordan struck a crisp volley from the far edge of the box into the near bottom corner.
-
V good goal from Riordan.
Donati has looked the part.
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DEEKS!! Great goal.
C'mon now Celtic, looking much better with the lads on
-
Wonderful sub by WGS or
why was he on the bench for so long?
You just filter it through whatever preconceived notion you had.
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Paul
Der is da proof of the Pood,
Riordan scores where no one could...
McGeady is too elaborate,
he should pick up some tips from ,
Riordan....his mate!
collie.
Tail's Awaggin', Awaggin'
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Riordan screamer. That was coming.
Celtic rampant now. Brown and Donati imperious.
Wee McDonald is superb.
-
freekick Celtic just under 30 yards out, pretty central to the left. Naka would score from here.
-
Free kick 30 yds out.
Who will take it?
Riordan it looks like.
Just over.
-
Riordan puts the freekick just over.
-
Elvis down injured.
Silver lining.
O'Dea and or Cuthbert should have had a run out today.
-
Aye but Pressley was just standing at the back ball watching as Riordan smashed it in.
I can't see the game by the way but just know that's what heppened.
-
a welcome goal by deek.
brown and hartley=no
brown and donati=yes thanks very much.
Emjay
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great play by DR - sets up McDonald but smashes his shot straight at keeper from 12 yds
-
Riordan lays it on a plate for McDonald who struck it straight against keeper.
Ought to have scored.
-
Great to see the 'tic fans there having something to party about
-
Strike by plɐuopɔɯ ʇʇoɔs straight at the Keeper
-
have to say from reading the comments i am very encouraged about whats been said about donati
i am thinking more and more JVOH and skippy could be first choice up front although skippy is suspended for the first 2 games
central defence again tho sounds the problem
-
Full time at Toyota Park:
Chicago Fire 1 (1) Celtic 1 (0)
Blanco (30)
Riordan (80)
A decent enough run out, but the central defence is still very worrying. Also, Celtic took 75 minutes to get a shot on target. Wonderful strike by Riordan for the equaliser.
-
89 mins. McDonald should have won it, great save.
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FT 1-1
last 10 mins we finally played some football. DR, Donati, Brown and McDonald all stepped up
-
Riordan created more chances in 10 mins than McG did in the whole game.
-
p.s. delighted for our americal tims we have got back in the game, and by the sounds of it with a screamer
someone get it on youtube with a link!
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McDonald could have won it, great strike first time but straight at the keeper who punched. Last half hour was great.
Full time.
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remmember i am phsycic
i said after riorden came on hes a good goal scorer and a good
FINISHER YES I SAID FINISHER
:):)
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Emjay
That's what friends (friendlies) are for.
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Riordan, Scotty, Teddy and Donati burning with pace killing the Fire. Riordan scorches them wide Scotty shoots at keep should have been a goal.
FT. Played only in the last 10 mins otherwise poor. I would start these guys. I think the qyestion is who will play with McDonald, not who will play with JVOH?
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Great cross Riordan.
Deek's just changed the side going forward.
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Surely Strachan can't persit with Zurawski after another decent performance by Riordan.
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I missed the first half due to horrendous internet performance, but the second half was pretty decent.
McDonald and the Vennegoor had a chance to draw level, both should have scored.
The Riordan goal was a peach of a volley and McDonald had the keeper to beat from the edge of the area in the last minute to seal it.
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Got to see the last 15 minutes. Was supplied a superb link, no buffering.
Donati and Riordan look really good. Cant comment on the rest.
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paul67
as someone who is objective with no agenda, could u give a round up of the game?
or at least comments on the reputed defensive shambles?
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Thanx for the updates guys, nice one.
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sdstim,
was just about to type the same thing.
i'm pleased they've got something to sing about.
sounds like scott mcdonald has made it to 1st team striker during this pre-season.
Emjay
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Needed
An attacking right full back.
A centre half with speed who can time a tackle.
A decision on the midfield combination.
A decision on Magic.
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Only invention in the first half was McGeady though not a lot came off. JVoH and Zurawski gave him few options, Hartley is toiling badly and this restricted Brown until Doanti and Bjarnasson came on and the game totally changed. Capone's lack of pace will always overshadow his neat skill I'm afraid.
I'd like to see McGeady, Donati, Brown and Bjarnasson on Thursday make up the midfield. McDonald is first pick striker at the minute. Him and JVoH up front.
Naylor is a great defender. His distribution is unacceptable.
Pressley is honest and has a massive heart but it's time for him to concentrate on his coaching career. Must only be considered as cover.
Donati and Brown could be a very special midfield this year.
Hail Hail
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Looks like CQN is having a breakdown.
Comment server ok though.
-
-------------Celtic FC Chicago Fire
Total Shots:------9---------12
Shots on Goal:---3----------5
Total Saves:------4----------2
Fouls:--------------5----------14
Offsides:----------2----------1
Corner-------------3----------7
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Well, we know we've got two goalkeepers, with Paul McGovern to come.
It's like there's a confidence there, that only sneaks out now and again. Maybe they're still growing into the jerseys.
Great pass by Massimo, classy finish by Derek, who looked at home.
And great pass by Derek, good strike by Scott. It'll come for him, I think.
Chris Killen will give JVOH a real challenge. He needs it.
Aiden, time to step up. You've got the ability, you have to find the brain. You can't do it all. Do what you do best, then give others the chance. The challenge.
The defence? We need help.
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gg comment on magic obvious.adios
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Finished 1-1. I thought it was a patchy performance, which can happen with all the chopping and changing.
Bjarnesson came on and gave the ball away quite a bit. I hope he doesn't suddenly become a bad player in the eyes of very demanding Celtic supporters.
There were actually decent passages in our play, but you'd need to open both your mind and your eyes to able to see them.
Mick for example, tidied up a lot, showed good pace to cut off a run by Carr. To bad he's p***, +++P and useless.....or so we are told.
As for the complaint about Boruc being subbed....this shows a complete disregard for the reality that this is pre-season and the manager clearly wanted both keepers to get a run. Why, why, why is that so hard to comprehend?
To the positive. I haven't seen a lot of Donati, but I do like what I have seen so far. Good players who join a new team always look around to get a handle on who else is on the same page. Donati strikes me as an intelligent soul. It was no fluke that it was Riorden that he picked out with that pass.
Now, I am not one of these folks who thinks DR is the bees knees. However, Donati had other (closer) options. In looking for THAT pass, I am guessing that he had seen DR finish in training.
He's going to LOVE Naka...:)
So, pre-season TRAINING continues. I hope no-one got hurt, and that we buy a couple of full backs.
I am also reasonably pleased that my North American pals got something to cheer about. It would have been great had McDonald buried that late chance....from a great steal, a good run, and a very fine pass by Riorden.....
Anyone know the fitness situation of Caldwell, O'Dea and Kennedy?
Oh yes, and the Ch67 feed was VERY good. I don't use it very often, but was well impressed tonight.
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Apologies, the site is down at the moment, though the comments facility is working OK, trying to sort.
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It is never a good sign when the emergency status page of your hosting company does not load.
Hmmm.
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Paul, that Stephen McManus must have broken the blog.......
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weeron..makes a change from me breaking it.have been known...
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Positives from the US Visit:
Our fitness is improving.
We have a good back up in goals.
We have learned Elvis has no future. Thanks for helping out when we had a CH injury problem.
Donati and Brown will win us the SPL.
Our other midfield positions will rotate between Naka, who can be put in cotton balls regularly, Riordan, Sno, McGeady and Teddy the Icelander. Hartley has a large question mark over his future.
We have competition for the strikers spot.
CL class. Not yet on US showing.
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i think based on comments tonight positives from pre seasons are we could of found our CM and CF partnerships
i will miss the newcastle celtic game as i have a family function unfortunately, tho owen and martins pace sounds like it could destroy us
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-------------Celtic FC Chicago Fire
Total Shots:------9---------12
Shots on Goal:---3----------5
Total Saves:------4----------2
Fouls:--------------5----------14
Offsides:----------2----------1
Corner-------------3----------7
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Weeron,
I get more impressed with your comments by the day.
You have a simple clarity of thought and completely understand what the game and business of football is all about. i could swear it was me writing some of the stuff you post.
Pity there are not more like us!!
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Paul, the site may be working again, but the last 20 minutes' worth of posts are only visible on the Comments page at the moment.
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Why do the Celtic board always break the blog?
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Lengthy comment jusy got lost in cyberspace..... grrr
Anyway, thanks for the updates everyone, much appreciated.
Looks like it was a curates egg of a performance. The same players playing well again: Boruc, Brown, Brown, Donati, McGeady in parts, MacDonald. Great to see Riordan get a goal, perhaps he will win the manager over yet?
Defensively seems as bad as in previous games. I said before it was time for Elvis to go and it looks like his was poor again. McManus and Kennedy as first choice for me.
Looks like our best central midfield combination is sorted out. Another poor performance from Hartley and Capone doesn't sound any better than what we have.
Up front MacDonald sounds like he is fitting in well. JVoH is worrying me, or is he the type of player who can only get up for the real thing? Magic I know has been injured, but sounds like he failed to impress again.
Can't wait until next Sunday and first chance to see the bhoys from my new seat!
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it was the guys who got the link for the game who broke it.
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i see DR gor celtic site MOTM after only playing 20 minutes
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Tom The Tim...
thanks. The rest of the gang will give me a kicking when they read that.....:)
Antsman, I thought Hartley was ok in the first 45. Him and Brown don't seem to be on the same page, though.
Didn't quite see what others did in McDonald. In fact none of the forwards have really stood out so far. It is worth bearing in mind that Naka is a huge player for us, and the service into the box will improve when he's back.
I'm of the view that we might go with 3 midfielders this season with Naka in a free roll.
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Yes a good training exercise but we need to stop shipping goals.
If we don't sign anyone else before our champions league decider i would go with
boruc
wilson bobo mick naylor
naka brown donati teddy
jvoh skippy
edb. agree. it's about making friends too so i'm glad our fans had something to talk about regarding our team's showing.
Emjay
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-
Collie and many others (but Collie is the bogey man or hound of the Baskervilles at the moment)
There’re many posters on this site, who think you are a gust of mist,
But me to every shaft of light, that writ in verse a muse has kissed,
I think you love the hoops, but then you damn your eyes with thoughts so base
As to suggest that Aiden, Mark, could disappear, and leave no trace!
I’m sorry pal but though your years have followed money’s forlorn trail,
My life has washed itself with tears as dreams and hopes were dashed to fail,
For victory once was the goal of like me who’ve come so late and found
That passion only can be whole when shattered not by folding pound.
For Celtic are much more than goals and wins and points or notch on belt,
We’re made from Pat and Andrew’s shoals, of wisps of smiles and ardour felt,
For once the seeds from which we thrive are tossed aside because for now
They do not fit the place you strive! just toss their boots and take their bow?
You’re wrong because I doubt your veins are filled with blood of emeralds’ spark,
Mixed with the fire of Alba’s weans that sees the light through mammon’s dark,
And so I’ll nod and let you pass for every view must have its time,
But let me say that view is crass, for Celtic is the only rhyme.
Hail hail
Estadio
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Emjay,
The only issue I take with you is 'why go with Teddy instead of Aiden'.
I would never leave Aiden out the side and I think you might find that the confidence he would get from this would lead to far more consistently effective performances.
I think Teddy is smashin' player, but he is not yet a first pick.
hail hail
Estadio
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antsman
Sorry if this was posted earlier, Michael Owen, again, is injured.
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"We have learned Elvis has no future."
Have we though?
He has played more minutes in our pre-season jaunts than just about any other player. It appears that Gordon likes him and trusts him, will perhaps even make him our captain.
He is talking in confident terms of the challenges ahead for Celtic this season (of course he must - he's a professional footballer; self-confidence is an essential component).
I don't want to be overly negative of a Celtic player, so I will say only: it's a worry.
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weeron
i meant brown/donanti, apparently donati was excellent when he came on?
el diego
never realised will be martins and ameobi then i would think, martins is very very quick
i have doubts creeping in over mark wilson and find reports about mendy encouraging if there is any truth
i think aiden has looked decent pre-season from what i have seen/heard
i really hope wgs has seen tonight pressley is not up to it
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Green Trumpet
I missed the comments from Tony Hamilton on injuries. I believe he said John Kennedy had picked up a strain in training.
I could have been O'Dea though. Or both.
My guess is Elvis is filling in for ijured or not completely fit centre backs. Either that he frightens Gordon by sneaking up behind the manager when he's shaving.
'GG getting lighthearted.
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antsman
I've also read reports saying that PSG would accept anything to be shot of Mendy.
-
Right he's fallen off the couch again. I've had to endure the technical details of how he can connect the darned PC up the big new widescreen.
For a while I was really impressed as the pictures and commentary were sharp, loud, and smooth; especially as everyone else in cyberland was having real bovver.
Anyway, just before he collapsed he happenned to mention that he had actually been watching a recording of the game against Chelsea last year.
So Michael Owen's injured is he. Well that will probably mean that Estadio won't bother going down to Newcastle next week. He can finish the bathroom now!
Did you know that Michael Owen's predecessor at Liverpool went out with a mate of mine who had one leg shorter that one of his!
Staggerin' init!
Slabbery Woman
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Estadio,
I'm with you on Aiden.
I so want him to be the player we've seen flashes of.
Maybe a good run in the team is what's necessary.
I have consistently said he's going to be great for us to my mates and then he consistently lets me down.
Maybe Teddy was a bit premature but Aiden tends to hide when it gets tough(hutton-rangers) and definitely in Europe.
Teddy looks like he wouldn't take any crap from hutton and like Naka could cut inside just like wee shaun used to.
For me doing the simple thing in football is harder.
Aiden still has to learn this. Hence he is not yet imo a first teamer.
In fact I don't know who is the 1st pick for our left side of midfield.
Would you still go with Aiden when Naka's playing too?
I'm thinking we're a bit light when the two play.
I'm still holding the candle for Aiden. My Aiden-doubting mates will verify that.
Emjay
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jeez...
recently posted that the anti strachan brigade were tiresome but the anti mcgeady mob are pushing this hard.
leave the guy alone he was the star man for us up til turn o year.others yet to step up to the plate.
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antsman
Check out martins' baggage.
The scum press here would have a field day.
-
el diego
martins baggage does not affect how good a player he is from what i have seen
Mendy - psg may want shot but le guens recent judgement of player is questionable..sebo,papac,sionko to name a few
there is a swelling of people negative re mceady,he showed at the start of last season he is good enough just needs to do it over a season
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Emjay
Sorry, he's scuppered!
There is more chance of raising the Napoli than getting the new Estadio pattern off the carpet.
He will answer your point later today.
Hold on a second... Lazarus eat yer heart out.. here comes the monster from the dark lagoon, complete with new candlestick/cotes du rhone bottle!
"Thank God we didn't have any kids.
What do you mean 3? When? Who was the bleedin' Mother!
While I was watchin' coronation street! My God, who raised them?
Got to go Emjay. I've just been informed by my slightly more hirsuite and drier-of-chin half that we have to visit the children tomorrow .....but we have to stay behind the bars"
See Ya
Have you ever seen Play Misty For Me!
She wos a woose.
Slabbery Woman
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oh aye and cost us a lot cash in some cases...
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antsman
I believe it will come out in the wash that those you mention (Sebo, Papac especially) were not PLG signings, but your point is valid.
Pre-season in pre-season, a friendly a friendly - this time last year I don't think we had Lee or JVOH, and we've played thus far without Naka. More signings to come and more, lots more, to come from Celtic once the real stuff starts. Donati and Brown (S) seem to be blending in nicely, so job done.
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bloke109
not sure what u mean re them not being le guen signings
My concerns over wilson and pressley go back further than pre season. the same applies to the centre of defence something which i had hoped would be addressed before pre season
however in my opinion gordon strachan satisfied my top level expectation last year of scottish cup,spl and last 16 (tho not in style/quality of football as an extra) so i am not going to have a go
however as 3rd seeds and with our defence i do not see us making the last 16 again without a better quality cb and new first choice right back. artur will be busy and can not be expected to do it all
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I'd say that Riordan is our manager's big test. It's obvious Gordon doesn't like the wee ned, and very likely you and I wouldn't like him as a neighbour or, God forbid, a potential son-in-law. Very likely he's not an enthusiastic trainer. None the less, he's a match-winner, one of the few we have.
A good manager of Celtic - commanding a big but not astronomical budget, needing to get real value out of our heritage, wanting to attack, play football the Celtic way - would relish the chance to get hold of and get something out of a Riordan.
We've probably had as many young men who like a drink, a smoke, a woman, and a fight, playing in our colours as any team, maybe more such men than most. From what I saw and remember, the official greatest Celt was a bad wee bugger when young - I saw plenty of Johnstonian bad behaviour, including violence, in the 1960s. The trick is to handle this kind of player not strike an attitude, to be a football manager rather than a headmistress.
I rather think our major shareholder, who knows a bit about bad lads (he's made a few bob backing Kieran Fallon, I think), might be thinking that the manager of Celtic ought to find a better outcome for the DR enigma than a quick sale to a mediocre second-rank English club. I know that's what I think ...
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antsman
Pretty much agree with your overall assessment. I believe more signings will arrive - we may not get all we need though.
My point on the PLG signings is that I have reason to believe that PLG wasn't directly involved in the signings of the players you mentioned, and others during his reign and that perma-tan was - the truth will out, though PLG has signed a confidentiality clause.
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I know this will be very unpopulour, but how much longer are we going to suffer the apology for a footballer that is Aiden McGeady. He has all the skill in the world, but lacks that vital component - a footballing brain.
He can do no wrong in a lot of Celtic fans' eyes but to me, he is a complete liability. He attacks defenders with the ball at his feet like the proverbial headless chicken and invariably runs into them, or passes to the opposition, or passes it out of the park.
I am sorry, but I would much rather see Riordan in a Celtic jersey than Aiden. It's just not happening for him and much as it saddens me to say it, we should punt him and move on.
-
I’m in a much more circumspect mood than I would be had we lost (a “mere” friendly at that). Player ratings and thoughts on the match today:
JVOH—5—I still believe he has it, but we ain’t seeing it right now. Would still start the season with him.
Zurawski—3—He’s done. I was hoping it was a one season malaise, but I don’t think it was. MLS club is welcome to him.
McGeady—5—I’m neutral on Aiden. I don’t believe he is the football saviour incarnate, nor a greed showboating flash-in-the-pan. As has been said ad-infinitum at this point, his trickery is frequently breathtaking. His inability to do the simple things (quick, head-up passing) is contributing to my bald spot.
Hartley—3—Desperately wanted him to make it with us. He won’t. Decent backup, maybe.
Brown—7—Still finding his feet with the ‘tic. But I’m convinced he will be a indomintable midfield beast this season (and for at least the next eight seasons). Stan will be a faded (still fond) memory.
Capone—5—Never an every week starter, but could be acceptable Naka cover.
Naylor—7—Probably another POTY nomination coming. I’m apt to forgive his few mistakes owing to his sheer workrate.
McManus—6—Improved as the match went on. I think he’s infinitely better beside a non-Elvis (Bobo?). Still not sold on him being captain, tho.
Elvis—3—See Hartley above. If he’s a starter, his disciplinary record (and the number of penalties against us) will be disturbing—although that’s a problem that technically takes care of itself.
Wilson—4—Really, really disappointing to me today. I know he can do better, and that he’s still not 100%. Plus, was it me or did he look a little on the chunky side today?
Boruc—8—Please, please do not let him go for more than ten million. He’s only going to get better and better with each passing year. Frankly, I think he should be the next captain.
Subs:
Brown—7—Good, solid GK. Would keep me from a total pit of despair should Artur leave sooner rather than later. How did the Slab last so long?
Donati—8—As others are saying—Brown, Donati, and Naka in midfield. Period, set in stone.
Teddy—5—As someone else said, reminds me a lot of Beattie. Not sure if that’s going to be good or bad.
Riordan—7—Blazing goal. Honestly, I truly believe he’s capable of more consistency than Aiden.
McDonald—7—Never thought I’d be saying this so soon, but he’s my first choice striker for the start of the season. All of Miller’s good attributes (pace, bit of trickery) and the ability to put it in the net. That said, he should of scored today. Needed, and could have taken, one more touch before pulling the trigger. But I don’t think he’d make the same mistake twice in a match.
Am I nuts for even entertaining the though of Miller and McDonald up front?
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Sorry--should have said Artur cannot leave for LESS than 10 million.
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Another friendly and again I have to ask. What was learned here.Pressley showed yet again why he should never ever be picked for Celtics first team again but the amount of playing time he has had in pre-season ahead of BB makes me think that WGS has a blindspot for him. If he starts the SPL and the CL qualifier as our first choice CB then we will be in trouble.
Overall up to now I dont believe we've had a particularly good tranfer window. We've replaced Neil Lennon and Stan Petrov(a year too late) with two good midfielders but what have we done outwith these two to make a difference from last season. We have signed two back up strikers and nothing else.
It seems that we are depending on a new more mobile midfield creating more chances for our strikers who will then show a higher scoring return. But what if that doesnt happen.Indeed up to now it seems the biggest difference from last year is that our defence is under more pressure due to the absence of Neil Lennon. Did we plan for this possible outcome. Apparently not as we havent signed any new defenders.
I hope and pray that the majority of our transfer activity is ahead of us because at the moment far from improving on last years team we actually look worse.
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Nakamura not coming home soon.
Japan play Saudi Wednesday in the semi final after beating Australia in a penalty shoot out following their 1-1 draw.
Naka converted a penalty.
'GG
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Saudi Wednesday refrred to above, have no known affiliation with Sheffield Wednesday to the best of my knowledge.
Perhaps Noel will have better insight.
'GG
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Anyone with a link to the Riordan goal?
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23/07/07 01:52, Thomas McLaughlin
Agree. Every word.
Plenty expectation, same predictable poor return.
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Dear Estadio,
I‘d like to thank you for the intriguing insight into the Estadio household. I feel sometimes I should look away or scroll by, but I’m more at ease with myself now that Slabbery Woman has sussed out the complexities of blogging, and can give us all a balanced view of your family life.
I think I’m beginning to understand you, having been brought up by a slabbery mother who would attend to us while watching coronation street.
I don’t know if I pity or envy you, but I tell you this, once the bathroom area is finished, she’ll find something else for you gut out and fix. My advice: take your time, take it easy and maybe buy SB a drill so that she too can show family members and visiting relatives what she did while you were pished upside down behind the telly.
Hail Hail
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last nights highlights
Highlights
Sign Ron Weasley he's magic
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That highlights clip from Greenlion shows two reasons why I think Riordon should be given a shout before McGeady for a wee run.
1) the goal. Riordon's a much more natural finisher, and will take a first time punt like that. McGeady will always look to control then shoot, giving defenders time to get back.
2) the early cross, a) I think Riordon's deliveries seem to be better than McGeady's in general and b) McGeady tends to try and get to the by-line before delivering which again allows for more defensive cover.
That said I wouldn't advocate punting McGeady as others have above. He's still incredibly young and there's time for him to learn some more footballing nous.
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Worringly, saw this from NewNow about how Naka is recovering from the games.
"The coaching staff brought some bathing ingredients from Japan for us too -- onsen minerals or something," said Nakamura.
"I think there was germanium too. I also got some from fans at the airport when we left. It helps get rid of fatigue and lets you sleep well."
Got some from fans at the airport?!?!?!
Wait for the Naka in Drugs Mule Storm" headlines in the Record.
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My view on McGeady is that he needs to play in the centre where his trickery might be more productive. When he’s out wide he’s expected to pick up the ball 30 yards from goal and run with it, that is not his strong point.
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'Germanium-containing dietary supplements became popular in the 1970s in Japan and later in other countries, as elixirs for certain diseases (e.g., cancer and AIDS). Germanium is not an essential element. Its acute toxicity is low. However, at least 31 reported human cases linked prolonged intake of germanium products with renal failure and even death. Signs of kidney dysfunction, kidney tubular degeneration, and germanium accumulation were observed. Other adverse effects were anemia, muscle weakness, and peripheral neuropathy. Recovery of renal function is slow and incomplete even long after germanium intake was stopped. The total dose of ingested germanium (as dioxide, carboxyethyl germanium sesquioxide, germanium-lactate-citrate, or unspecified forms) varied from 15 to over 300 g; the exposure duration varied from 2 to 36 months. In laboratory animals, elevated germanium in tissues and impaired kidney and liver function were observed in a life-time drinking water (5 ppm germanium) study. Other toxicities associated with ingested germanium products in human cases were also demonstrated in animal studies with germanium dioxide and sometimes other germanium compounds. Based on the evidence of persistent renal toxicity associated with germanium dioxide, the lack of conclusive findings of differential nephrotoxicity of organic germanium compounds, and the possibility of contamination of the organic germanium products with inorganic germanium, it is clear that germanium products present a potential human health hazard'
The above comes from the FDA in Washington,DC.
What's wrong with the traditional footballer's pick me up of a big plate of steak and chips?
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Mike, I thought the very same thing! The tabloids' (especially the Record) ability to contort quotes to their own end (ie the anti-Celtic agenda) is mind-blowing...
When the Japan coach said (paraphrased) "yeah, Nakamura is the complete player. the only thing possibly missing is lots of pace, but...", and they turned it into "COACH TELLS NAKA: YOU'RE TOO SLOW. Nakamura threatened with chop if he doesnt shape-up"
If that was a comedy sketch on Little Britain or the Fast Show I'd be in knots. As it is, I just want to go on a killing-spree.
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Thanks for the highlights GL2...
Hmm, I know it must have been hot out there, but they passed right through our defence. No-one in the SPL will even try that, but it looks like we're desperately lacking the pace at the back required for Europe.
Some good points from what I can see, though, from that 3 minute clip...
Boruc is unbelievable, top-drawer, and world class. If he does find a "better" club, they better have 15-20million going spare.
Donati looks like a clever player, picking out the right player at the right time. As someone said, when Naka gets back those two could do some real damage to teams. That midfield looks like it might just match some of the best in Europe, even if it was assembled at a fraction of the cost.
Riordan could have it all if he wanted. He finishes for fun and has the confidence to run with the ball. You cant buy those qualities cheap these days. I wish to f**k Strachan or someone would sit down with him (if they havent already) and tell him that if he can just stay out of pub brawls then he could very well go on to be a legend for Celtic. It'll be a bloody liberty if he is allowed to leave at all, let alone for something like 500k (he looks better than Naismith, in my opinion.)
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Danny
What are McGeady's strong points that justify him playing in the middle?
Where would you place McGeady at Celtic, not including the world at:
Short-Passing
Long-Passing
Shooting
Anticipation
Teamwork
Strength
Tackling
Stamina
Those are qualities, most of which are needed in abundance and McGeady falls well short in all of these facets.
This is not to mention that he is unsuited out wide too as he fails in the three of the four basic attributes needed for wide play
Acceleration
Speed
Crossing
he is a very good Dribbler
So where do you play him...
p.s. At what age does the excuse of McGeady being too young to assess properly no longer apply?
p.p.s. I do not wholly attach the blame on McGeady, more the fault of the reserve and first team coaching at CP, where if they cannot see that the most obvious attributes to improve in a player who they see as being a wide-man (namely acceleration and flat speed, not even to mention crossing ability) yet has seen no gaining of even 'half-a-yard' of pace since his first outing in the first team is very worrying.
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Thanks for posting the highlights greenlion, and thanks again for last night's updates, everyone.
Their goal was a mess from a central defensive point of view, although there was a case for offside as the player. I guess the player in the offside position was deemed not active though. And of course the defenders should have played to the whistle.
Our goal was another lovely finish by Riordan from a nice Donati pass. If his off field activities could be sorted out....
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In the name of ........
Just leave McGeady out of it. When the lad has a quiet 45 minutes , hell breaks loose. Boruc and McGeady have been our brightest performers this preseason.
Riordan scored a goal last night. Cue mass demonstrations and online petitions for his inclusion in the team.
Didnt anyone notice that Deek benefited from the change in formation last night. We effectively went 4-3-3. Riordan thrives in this position. Good finisher , yes but his all-round game is poor. Put it this way he'd be a liability in a top class game ie. CL. He dosent track back , cant tackle , lets his man run on , basically picks his nose for the duration. A Champions League defense would have him for breakfast. He scores goals , at what cost? He leaves the left side of the pitch exposed.
Pggtips ,
McGeady has most of the attributes you suggest , he dosent fall short in many of them. Work is required in some but that is the case for every player. McGeady took a rather sore Balck eye for the cause last night and continued rough treatment form Chicago defenders. He just got up and dusted himself off and continued to attack them. Further evidence of his development.
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Mike
Are you still alive? Need my help?
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Seen enough of Wilson?? Get this lad signed
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Something that confuses me about the whole craig gordon to sunderland thing is
keane has seen artur and will no doubt know he is a much much better keeper, so why did he not go for artur before gordon?
Or is it because he knows that there is no way he would move there
if gordon does go there for £10m then that can pay of about 1/3rd of hearts debt in one go.
However if he is a £10M player i really do wonder. Also it makes u wonder what artur is worth. I think this may well be arturs last season as he could easily be commanding £40-50k a week if he has another good season, judging by reports from america he is still looking good
Incidentally - all credit to Gordon Strachan/Scouts for spotting him
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Take 2 Get this lad signed
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antsman - I believe Keane knows that Boruc would not leave Celtic for his premiership strugglers.
Incidentally, Strachan seems to have a knack of finding good goalkeepers. Remember he signed Magnus Hedman for Coventry, and despite his problems when he arrived at Celtic, he _was_ an excellent keeper for Coventry.
He then brought Chris Kirkland through at Coventry, again a good keeper at the time who has unfortunately suffered through injury. He also signed Anti Niemi for Southampton from Hearts.
In fact, I can't remember a single Strachan team that wasn't underpinned with a quality goalkeeper.
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Pgtips
You blame the coaching staff at Celtic Park for Aiden McGeady’s failings.
How magnanimous of you.
Natural athleticism is hereditary, it cannot be coached.
Just doesn’t work that way.
You either got it or you haven’t.
In the past certain individuals gave Aiden a hard time for being too lightweight.
I had empathy with their observations.
Aiden bulks up a bit and looses a half yard in doing so.
Aiden is now too slow.
You can’t have it all.
Short passing, he equals and surpasses that criteria.
Long passing, he is not a play maker.
Shooting, he draws two sometimes three opponents, if his midfield team mates find it hard to keep up with him and if his strikers can’t lose their markers and give him an angle, that is not his fault.
Anticipation, of what?
Teamwork???????????
Strength?????????????
Tackling, when did he become the ball winner?
Stamina now your having a laugh.
Somebody else moaned that he heads for the byline before cutting back.
Yeah and your problem is?
Was it not one of the late, Great Jock Steins favourite stratagies?
Get the ball to the byline and cut it back for others to run onto.
Or was it only effective then?
Have you ever stopped to think that he may be playing to instruction?
Have you ever stopped to think about the number of fouls he draws?
Have you ever stopped to think that in a fair and equitable league where MIB actually do the job they are paid to do, his style of play would account for, Numerous, Numerous, Yellow and maybe even the odd Red card?
And all the time he is the one who takes the hits. He is the one that goes back for more. He is the one that has to endure unqualified, and cynical crap from so called supporters.
From your list you neglected to include
Skill
Passion
Vision
Heart
Effort
Fear of disappointment
Commitment
Confidence
Professionalism
Will to win
Attitude
With the exception of Confidence he has all the above character traits in an abundance.
I could go on but I can’t think of much more to say.
I think it is all the fault of my English teachers They didn’t teach me right.
I don’t know if the boy is going to be another Jimmy Johnstone.
I doubt it.
But maybe if we cut him a bit of slack he might just turn out to be Aiden McGeady.
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It's funny claiming Aiden is a soft touch. I remember Alex Rae trying to rough him up in an old firm game. I think Rae came out of it one tooth down.
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SonsofErin
I remember the same
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Kitalba, can you drop me an e-mail (pablophanque@gmail.com) ?
Thanks in advance.
pablophanque
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Pablo
done
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I am recording all these anti-Aiden diatribes to re-post in the not too distant future when we have one of the fully matured stars of European football on our books - and a dyed in the wool Celtic supporting one at that.
Let me just put a marker down here!
Aiden McGeady does not have 'the excuse' of being the young up and coming star any more in fact I never subscribed to that view anyway; basically if you are good enough etc...
He does however deserve the recognition that in the first half of last season he not only performed at a consistently high level but was touted week in week out as Naka's only serious rival for Player of the Year.
After the New Year he faded. In fact so did every other 'creative' department of the team, with the one shaft of light being the resurrection of Shunsuke's sunbeam at Killie.
In fact so much were we on the back-foot during that period that Lee Naylor rocketed to main challenger to Shunsuke.
If you really think you want rid of Aiden, I suggest you sit through every game last year again and see who it was that had the fans on the edge of their seats wherever and whenever he got the ball, who even at CP caused a rumble verging on roar to go round the cloistered silence, who NEVER hid, and was always available to receive the ball and go on that 60 or 80 yard run and relieve the pressure, or even who would turn games at Hibs, Falkirk, Motherwell, Inverness and who in the first two games against 'them' was simply a class apart.
For those who wish to categorise his ability into the pigeon hole of statistics, I again suggest that you go back and watch again, this time with the negative filters removed.
Don't just count the short passes under/overhit, don't just recollect the long sweeps that were misdirected, don't just remember Alan Hutton having one and a half good games, and for 'being an apology for a footballer', 'Having no football brain', 'punt him', these sentiments do not even deserve a response.
Look instead at the number that find their target, look at the change in demeanour of the crowd and the attitude of the team when he comes on, look at the two or three opposing players who are dragged out of position, look at the frantic gesticulation in the technical areas, see the cut outside, the cut inside, the massive improvement in tackling, the team support, the effort and the desire, and most of all probably since De Canio hear on a regular basis, and always said with a broad grin, ‘did you ****** see that’.
Aiden needs to score more, shoot more, and do more.
The thing is that every season since his debut he has done exactly that! Shot more scored more, tackled more, passed more, crossed more!
He has also stuffed more blinkered opinions back down the throats of irrational critics every season since he was 15.
And yet every year the same opinions from the same mouths are regurgitated in the hope that the vomit will stick. Why?
What is this thing that we have against him! This seems more than a football opinion. I don’t believe it is but when I reprise the negative opinions to any non-Celtic fan, home or abroad, I am accused of essentially winding them up.
Yes he was overawed at Manchester, so were a few others. But he was magnificent in Milan as were a few others. Yes he does something brilliant and then will maybe lose the ball or see a pass go astray. That is the profile of players who live at the cutting edge and are constantly trying for that one move that will bring that one opportunity that will result in that one goal that will make that big difference.
Keep trying it for Celtic’s sake Aiden!
I don't know if he will go on to achieve what I believe he is capable of, but the chances are that he will, especially when he is at a club that he loves and one that hopefully will encourage and support him.
I also hope that Deek develops into a player that we can laud from the slopes of Paradise, but those who think he is not in because of some irrational 'grudge' must also think that Gordon Strachan would prefer to lose a match, perhaps lose the dressing room, and ultimately lose his job because of a 'grudge'.
Derek is not playing regularly because he is judged at the moment not to be contributing enough and on the evidence of last season I would say that while he also excites, his delivery leaves a disappointed hollow feeling 'so far'!
It’s clear that opinions and judgements on Aiden are polarised.
After all some (and again I have sympathy for the player in that only 11 can be on the park) now see Teddy B as a natural and more effective replacement.
Teddy is a superbly skilled player and like Aiden played most of his reserve and u19 games in the middle of mid-field.
I think he should be given a regular chance and even a reasonable number of starts but until he has gone through that learning process and played with the big Bhoys who 'must win' every week, then no way does he merit a de facto first pick position. But what a marvellous player and what a great Celtic bred duo (well one and a half) to have.
2 years ago Man U wanted rid of the 21 year old sand dancer, one trick pony that was Christian Ronaldo. Inn 2001 PSG hawked the 21 year old Ronaldinho around clubs because of his waywardness and lack of discipline. In 1965 Jock Stein wanted rid of 19 year old Jimmy Johnstone.
JJ and Christian Ronaldo stayed to prove in the most emphatic way possible just how wrong their critics were.
PSG were lucky because 2 years later when he was 23, Ronaldinho moved on for 21 million big ones having proven himself on the world cup stage. He is only now approaching his peak!
In terms of natural talent, I don't think I have seen better coming through the youth than Aiden McGeady.
'Perfect player, do no wrong, untouchable' - No! That applies to no-one.
'Marvellously skilled player, who can be a match-winner, plays football the Celtic way, frustrating, fan with boots on, Alex Rae's dentist, Bazza's nemesis, probably 6/7 years away from being at his best, THE example to every single wean with the glint of glory and the passion for kissing the green grass of paradise, ' - absolutely!
Let’s not look back in years to come to regret the day that Celtic, the club, the team, and the support became no more than a short-termist spinning door with no visionary eye to the future, and no romantic notion of the past.
After all are we not 'more than a football club'.
Hail hail
Estadio (a wee bit of an Aiden McGeady fan)
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new article posted.
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Great post Estadio!
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Hey Pablo,
Where ye been?
