Crucial period ahead for Celtic

Im sure when Jock Stein took the Lions to Lisbon the rest of the world thought we hadnt a cat in hells chance against Inter and if you know your history its enough to make your heart go o o o o

So "Come on the Hoops"

ooooooooooooh

almost

Have the wheels fallen off Nigel Mansells car

Well said Jinksy. The players will be up for it. Stranger things have happened. Stand up for them. c'mon the hoops

Headline in the Scottish Hun

Murrays £20k a day net profit - unfortunately for Minty its young Andy thats making money !!!!!!!!!

I think I saw Nakajima passing him yesterday.

I wouldn't say he's slow but I've got a snail that can do quadratics quicker then him .

PS From previous post. Gonna be sitting in the North? stand tomoroow with a couple of ManU fans/colleagues .

Willing to take the abuse for the chance of a surprise !!

Hail Hail

Sanna

fear itself and all that jazz.....

like a kid i always harbour hopes that this'll be the one where we upset the applecart, shut the "journalists" up, y'know, them who always report on how valued and coveted our managers & best players are right before big games.

come on the hoops indeed!!

Harry's Bhoy

Just for you.. from the last article :)

Hail, hail..

Now call me daft if you like....

Watched the the ICT game with my brother, with both of us feeling that the real highlight was Scott Brown's beamer when big Glen gave him the champagne and a wee kiss (Is it a Dutch thing..'Yesh, Schott played great today, heesh a great team-mate..and alsho my lover.')

Difficult away trip, but three points in the bag. Really concerning injury list going into a CL game against a club with a huge array of talent, most of whom seem to be firing aon all cylinders after a slightly shaky start to the season.

BUT..

Would we get much change out of Rio Ferdinand if Sammi and Big Jan were playing? Caldwell travels, but may not play. As arguably our most consistent regular defender, how will the rest otf them get on against Rooney, who is scoring for fun this weather. Does anybody who isn't one of us expect us to get anything out of this game.

Well, here's you chance to call me daft.

Celtic will need to play football, on the deck, passing. Skipy can't do lone striker, so Maloney, Aiden, Naka are going to have to pull out all the stops. Brown adn Robson are going to have to hustle and let's hope big Glen is a threat at set pieces.

We always seem to raise our game on these occasions, and there's a wee bit of me that thinks maybe, just maybe....

No predictions but hopeful

STANDING UP...............

Football - the beautiful game - 90 minutes - 11 men v 11 men

Some wee historical lessons

Celtic v Inter

Scotland v France (Twice)

ROI v Italy

Wimbledon v Liverpool

Dare I say ICT v Celtic (twice)

And David v Goliath

believe and it can happen - lets be positive and support the team as always .

After all we ARE THE FAMOUS GLASGOW CELTIC

Underestimate us at your own risk

I am not taking it for granted that we will win our home games,never mind difficult away fixtures.

Even with Sammy and JVOH in the side we have struggled at times, at home.
i.e. StMirren and Abaaadeen.

MacDonald playing up front without a big striker beside him ,does not fill me with confidence.

From the very little that i have seen of them.Ben Hutchison or Cillian Sheridan are not of the required standard yet.

This will prove to be the make or break period in our season.

The time when we find out if the squad is strong enough.

I live in fear.

One free midweek off until December this is a crucial month time for the squad to show its worth.

Crosas out has been confirmed, wasnt on the bus south.

Any news on the baffling right back issue? Hinkel, Caddis, Wilson? Can we get Telfer?

Great to wake to profitable nightshift news, sorry DublinBhoy but I did enjoy your posts.

A last, but fitting word on Boca

Celtic v Boca

Paul67

I have been lurcking for about three years and love the site. Tried a few times to get involed but for whatever reason couldn't get logged on.

Anyway, always get excited at this time and always believe this is going to be the away game that we will get the win. No change this time. Man utd have great players, but so have Celtic. I live in hope.

Standing up for the Champions

I hope everyone enjoyed a great weekend. For me, it was one of the best in ages thanks to CQN legend McGraininSpain.

The mhan forsook the joys of ToysRUs to come and meet me instead and we were in time to watch the second half, the goals and the victory in a place called Paddy's Point near Torrevieja. We knew it was a long shot, but we asked if Big Joe was in the house only to be disappointed.

Then McGrain took me to a very fine place for lunch before dropping me at Murcia airport to fly home. What a guy. Thanks a million McGrain; you were a brilliant host.

I was thinking about the last time I had such an interesting conversation with someone I had never actually met before. The answer is the CQN Golf Day. Could be a coincidence, but I don't think so. This is a great tribute to CQN. You have created something beautiful and powerful, Paul. We raised a glass to you.

Oh, Harry's Bhoy.. we were getting a good clap going there, and you've gone and rained on the parade. :)

Every part of the season is make or break for Celtic. Everybody wants us to drop points. Whether the squad is strong enough is really up to the squad themselves. Individuals need to prove they have the desire and will to win.

I don't think we should go around saying 'That's three points at home coming up' too much. It's all about points on the board, a rationale used last season by another team that had matches rearranged etc.

The fact is Celtic are top of the league and need to try and stay there, regardless of who is or isn't injured. They're all Celtic players and all have a part to play.

Come on, step out of the shadow of fear and join me and others in a bit of...

STANDING UP

Could someone please give me a lift as far as the podium if it's on your way?

Jinkysboy

Also, although the differenence between Man Who and Celtic is not as great.

January 1987 Rangers v Hamilton

Hamilton without a win in the league and 16/1 shots.

CL away win? Celtic are 15/1.

0-1

harry's bhoy or the Rev I M Jolly, i can't tell...........

Our biggest problem will be to stop the players mind's drifting forward to the Hibs game!

Nigel was that another gasket blown?

When we use quamtum physics on the little hope we have it becomes a very big hope, nearly as big as our hearts, keep the hope in your heart and faith in your team and lets see where this adventure takes us.
hail hail

Oh and when being offered bets for the game I'm getting offered the draw, but when I ask for a goal a start they bottle it, so regardless of their bullish confidence they are still deficating themselves.

Almost 1,000 posts on the last thread, and the blog stood up well, Paul. The combined assault of the songs debate, US sports and Man U build up wasn't enough to break it.

You're right about this being a crucial period, not just in the SPL but also for our European ambitions. The minimum we should expect is still to be in European competition come Xmas. But injuries will be a difficulty too. The striker position is the one where we have a problem right now. Hopefully we are well enough covered at other positions to allow for a bit of rotation.

Can't leave without a word of congratulations to the rays and commiserations to our Red Sox fraternity. Hope you will still be around for the world Series: I intend on watching every minute!

Canamalar

Are you saying Celtic are the Large Walk-on Collider of European football?

I'll get my coat....

Gordon J

Im rooting for the Celtic and the Phillies this next while

I was thinking about that curse - I hope its not the curse of Gordon J !!!!

All bad runs come to an end some day.

Gordon J

Good point on the blog standing up to the weight of various debates - but you missed one topic out - the X Factor! The blog regularly surprises me with discussion topics but this was the biggest surprise yet.

But I have to agree with the Bhoys who were backing Diana - cracking voice and something a bit different to the usual ballad based dross...

As for the Man U game, we'll need to ride our luck and everyone will need to play out of their skin but let's go with hope and we'll see where it takes us. I'd take a point now though!!

Hail hail

EHIY

Curse: I spit on your curse!

I missed the X Factor because I skipped the posts: I can't stand these stupid programmes. Still, each to their own I suppose.

A wee story from today's Herald:

"Rangers manager hits out at web comments"

"Walter Smith fears the internet will allow bigots to continue to tarnish Rangers' name despite the club's efforts to eradicate sectarian behaviour at Ibrox.

"The Rangers manager believes the club's efforts to wipe out the "stain" of sectarianism deserve more credit, but agreed with club chairman Sir David Murray's recent comment that there is little they can do to prevent supporters peddling "bile" on websites.

"What more can Rangers do as a club but decry and decry and decry those supporters who continue to ignore what the club and the authorities have told them?" asked Smith in an exclusive interview with The Herald. "Because of modern technology, faceless people will always spout their bile and the club will always be tarnished by it. I am not bright enough to know what to do about it but I am happy as the manager that the people I work with day to day do not have a sectarian attitude."

Why is it that Walter and Murray can read what's posted on websites but cannot hear what is sung at games??

A statement from Walter Smith on sectarianism and Rangers followed by my own comments

Walter Smith
"The truth is, there is still an aspect of sectarianism among a certain number of supporters.

"What more can Rangers do as a club but decry and decry and decry those supporters who continue to ignore what the club and the authorities have told them?

"It is being kept alive by a proportion of our support, the media - who are happy to keep it going for the sake of selling papers - and by politicians. Because of modern technology, faceless people will always spout their bile and the club will always be tarnished by it. I am not bright enough to know what to do about it but I am happy as the manager that the people I work with day to day do not have a sectarian attitude.

"As a club, we can only try to continue to eradicate it and I don't think we receive enough credit for doing that.

"I think it is clear the problem has diminished in the last 20 years but the problem now is the media attention has magnified it again. Look at last week: the Bank of Scotland went bust in a credit crisis that affects everyone in this country. What was the front page story in a national newspaper? The Famine Song. That is why it will always linger.

"When I first came to Rangers, there was a call for Rangers to sign Catholic players. The club were aware of the consequences of their earlier stance and knew that if they made that statement of intent, it would go a long way to ending the stain of sectarianism.

"Rangers as a club under David Murray have signed Catholic players, Muslims, Jews, players from all types of backgrounds and religions, yet the debate still comes up.

"Twenty years ago, Rangers did not sign Catholic players, you could not put up an argument, but what has happened in the last 20 years has shown Rangers are not a sectarian club. If you look at the club, never mind the playing side, there is not an area that could be termed sectarian but there is still a sectarian aspect to the support. The chairman addressed it by attacking those who use websites to promote what he called bile' and it is that kind of thing that has inflamed the situation.

"There has been an acceptance of responsibility from the club and the supporters have to do the same."What more can they do?

Comment
They could condemn the singing of TFS in no uncertain terms.

They could clearly set out who they are and what they stand for as Celtic have done in order to emphasise the distinction between the club and the element in their support who are not in accord with their statement of being.

That statement would include an admittance that their signing policy was wrong and they changed it for that reason not because, as Walter has said, there would have been consequences if they had not.

Their similar response to TFS suggests this is something they appear just not to get and that is that change has to come from the inside not as a result of consequences applied from the outside.

The comparison might be too extreme for some but what is required is the kind of statesmanlike quality that Anwar Sadat showed when he made peace with Israel. You can get an idea of what this involved at

http://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/jsource/Peace/sadat_speech.html

All the elements to real change are contained therein. Sadat of course was assassinated as a result of his courage but as I said the situation then and there was an extreme one but courage to change is required here and now and if we really want an end to the worst aspects of the rivalry between the clubs they need encouragement to do so. Encouragement is more likely to cause positive change than criticism.

My cynical side could interpet this as part of an ongoing strategy to promote and prolong the idea that Rangers as a club have done all that they can in order to avoid the consequences that have already caused change. Gordon Smith was the first to suggest this and others in the football media have picked it up and ran with it.

However if TFS continues to be heard in numbers too large for the police to tackle then Rangers have to do even more, for as long as TFS continues they have to fear football authorities acting under UEFA anti racist policies imposing the very consequences that they fear. Walter Smith's statement shows that the focus on TFS and the consequences of not stopping it is making them think (or even rethink).

The ending of TFS itself would not signal a change of heart but it might signal the beginning of a change of heart if Rangers were to go that extra step and pursue the steps outlined above.

EHIY

Musical tastes vary as much as football opinions I suppose

Accepted that she is different but I thought a cross between Katie Melua and Bjork. Not my cup if tea.

Its all dross - fabricated dishwater IMHO

Mrs jinks watches it though which gives me the chance to get on the blog

I was hoping the last article might get over the 1000 post - has that ever happened before ?

Auldheid / Gordon J

The last 3 days have seen this blog catch fire with such varied opinion on the club and chairmans statements on songs. As least CFC raise and attempt to tackle this issue whatever our individual views are on it. They knew there would be a backlash such as ICT but you dont get change by burying your head in the sand.

Whereas TFOD - Bucket of sand is in the corner of the boardroom -although I dont know will ever be " Aye Ready" to take this issue on with their own fans

The reason is clear - we will debate and tackle the issue - Rankers fans will demonstrate outside Castle Greyskull and vote with their feet too.

We hold the higher ground both at club and supporter level and always will

Keep the faith

ML3inarow,

welcome .

Sanna

You're Celtic, United but baby I've decided you're the best team I've ever seen.

It's a monumental task tomorrow, made all the more difficult by the injury crisis but this is exactly the level we want to be playing at. Statistically we are the equal 9th best team in Europe playing the best and our near worst away record meets their near best home record!!!

I'd imagine it's a full strength defence, with a midfield 5 consisting of at least Hartley, Robson, Brown and Nakamura which leaves room for one of Maloney or McGeady supporting Scott McDonald. The same Scott McDonald who was given a pay rise, a long term contract and the number 7 in the summer.

90 minutes to match our best ever are required here.

I’ve deliberately stayed out of this as I shared my views on this subject in a previous phosting over two years ago, however since its back on the radar here goes.

To start with they are not rebel songs or party tunes, they are songs of freedom or as Brian Warfield says “a musical history” of the most distressful country the world has ever seen.

As a young lhad watching the leather belts, as we called them back then, in the Jungle and Sellick end the songs of today were not heard however the likes of Faith of our Fathers, Hail Glorious St. Patrick, Sean South and our own versions of versions of follow follow and hello hello were.

We stopped singing the former about the time the Scottish Soldier recorded it, I think it was him, and Bartie Dick recorded our theme tune.

Never heard the Wolfe Tones until I moved tae the colonies, the nearest we got tae songs of freedom was The Clancys, Theresa Duffy and a dreadful album by a bunch of folkies including Enoch Kent.

As I said earlier although brought up in a family that was proud of its Irish roots I never heard a rebel song, or as my mother called them party tunes, the only party tune in our house was “Bee Baw Babbity”, until I went up Cardross Road.

First day in music class we were taught "oh come let us sing to the school of our youth", the school song, the second was "oh Paddy dear now do you hear the news that's going round", The Wearing of the Green, the former being written by the music teacher Jackie Pickup who hailed from the Presbyterian Vale and was of that ilk.

There was no shame in singing songs of freedom of the land of our forefathers nor was there of wearing our school uniform of green and gold.

As I also said earlier Mr. Zimmerman who I saw in 1966 and is still the best concert I ever went to even though the mindless numpties booed him, was a visionary and is today still America’s greatest living poet, was a big Clancy’s fan and reckons there’s nothing stirs the blood better than a good song of freedom or more melancholy than a sad Irish ballad.

That same spring the BBC aired a show in honour of the Easter Rebellion which included Motherwell resident and former Dubliner Dominic Behan, we were treated to old favourites “Slievenamon and Skibbereen” as well as a new anthem “The Foggy Dew”.

The Clancys on the back of their “Live at Carnegie Hall” album visited town around that time also and taught us “Legions of the Rearguard”, “The Patriot Game” and a Tommy Makem ditty that went like this “some say the devils dead, some say he’s hardly, some say the devils dead and living in Killarney, more say he’s rose again, more say he’s rose again, more say he’s rose again and joined the british army…………up the long ladder and down the short rope, tae hell with king billy and God Bless the Pope, if that doesn’t we’ll tear them in two and send them tae hell with their red, white and blue”.

All great fun as a resurgent Celts were heading of tae the greatest season in the club’s history and on our way to Lisbon we also sung a Dermot O’Brien/Dubliner’s hit called “we’re all of to Dublin in the green”.

Through the years like most Celtic fhans of my generation we sung songs of freedom going to and from Parkheid on various supporters busses and the Balloch to Brigton train well fuelled with mixtures of Merrydown and Lanny. James Connolly, Sean Tracy, Kevin Barry, Fergeal O’Hanlon and the Limerick man fae Garryowen were our heroes. We also sung them in the park too where be it the Sellick end or the Jungle, songs of freedom and Celtic had been joined at birth.

My greatest Celtic supporting claim to fame was starting Sean South, which the whole ground picked up just after Stevie’s equalizer against Vojvodina.

I never heard the add on tae “On the One Road” until the early seventies and used tae wonder what the likes of the Big Mhan, Tam or wee Wispy thought of that. As for RITG never heard that until the dreadful 90’s living over here.

And then in 1969 the roof blew off in the occupied state of the country that our founding fathers came from and three letters were being frowned on by society. Three letters that can be seen on a tricolour proudly flying high over a Lisbon sky on May 25, 1967.

Dublin and Tipparery were really so far away as Derry and especially Belfast seemed to close tae home. It was once again no longer fashionable tae be Irish, well in Scotland anyway.

I still have a healthy collection of rebel cds but rarely play them, they are still heard in the house though but that’s Mrs. TT who plays them and she was born up the Peoples Republic of Brucehill so that explains that.

In front of me right now is a wonderful cd by Eamon Largey’s Flying Column featuring his wife Kathleen, on it are “Four Green Fields” and a medley comprising “Sean South/Boys of Wexford/Bold Fenian Men”.

Going back to the “Wearing of the Green” when most of us were but a glint in our grandfather’s eye over in the oul country while the forces of the crown were singing the likes of the “bonnie wells of wearie” and other Knights Templar laments our fhans wear filling the air with the “Wearing of the Green” and “God Bless Ireland”.

Mibbees we should revert back tae the former with a wee bit of altering the words tae:

“O Paddy dear, now did ye hear the news that's goin' round;
The songs we love have been forbidden at Celtic’s ground;
It’s the most distressful situation that I have ever seen;
For they’re punishing Celtic supporters for singing about the Green.

If on December 1, 1955 in Montgomery Alabama an African-American of Cherokee-Creek and Scottish-Irish ancestry had not refused to obey bus driver James Blake’s order that she give up her seat to make room for a white passenger then the current favourite for the White House would not be running, in fact JFK would have been lucky to have made it.

UEFA will never punish us for singing songs of our heritage whether they be the hymn, freedom or folk variety as long as we remove the add ons and don’t display any signs of animosity, hate or anger, to do so would mean closing down half the clubs in Europe.

So why on earth are we trying tae appease those who hate us for what we are and would like nothing better than to see us disappear, we must remain faithful to our heritage, we are Celtic, not Glasgow Hibernian or United.

Are we going tae be Rosa (Celtic) Parks or Uncle Tims.

Let the People Sing

WG: ....... n thirs anurra hing - our limo driver is none other than former Norn Iron quarter-of-an-internationalist, Sammy McIlwoy, a darnelist to his union jack boxer shorts

SOAL: How come we always git landit wi wan ay the dark side ?

WG: Obvious innit ? McIlwoy's Alexanderson's spy. He'll be tunin intae oor convy and feedin back tae the Grandmaster o' Govan. So remember the golden rule.....

NAFOS: Loose talk costs wives

WG: Precisely, NAFOS

SOAL: Who's oan the bell ?

WG: Ye know sumhin, Arthur ?

SOAL: Whit ?

WG: Thir appears tae be nae end tae yir capacity fur moochin free drink

SOAL: Well Ah've goat tae make the maist ay it if Ah'm gauny bi oan the wagon oan Tuesday

WG: N mind - is well is watchin ma back you've goat full responsibility for the health and well-being of Mr Hugh Richards, the Aled Jones of the MLs. Don't be lettin him have too much pink Berenger or gin.

NAFOS: Aye, Ah hear he's quite partial tae a Beefeater.

SOAL: Shut it, NAF.

Welcome ML3inarow, love the name.

It’s ‘hope in your heart’ time tomorrow.

Celtic First, great to hear that, thanks.

Gordon J, I was busy yesterday so missed the blog and when I tuned in saw >900 comments and know I didn’t have time to trawl through.

Tomorrow evening will be a big test for the new server....

Auldheid, your comments on Walter Smith are all valid but I think this is a brave comment from him. Tackling what your own fans sing is a near impossible task for a club and will bring enormous amounts of “bile” on his own head from the people he needs to communicate with.

I agree with jinkysboy, Celtic have a long history of never flinching away from the songs debate, to their great credit. Rangers have a great deal to learn, and are starting from a considerably different position, so I am pleased to hear this from Smith, or perhaps this once I should say, Walter :-)

Just a quick post,not posted for ages and not sure if anyone already mentioned it but could not fail to notice that the Hearts goal scorer was booked for celebrating yesterday,here was me thinking that did not happen anymore...............:-(.

Or maybe its just the type of derby that demands these decisions?

I know,I know its not worth the effort but its one of my pet hates for refs and TFOD I just had to raise it.

When we discussed Rangers going bust recently there were one or two voices who suggested that in time we would miss them. I know of one club that no one would miss were they to go bust.......

Early days still, but I hear it may become an interesting week on the financial news front.

Paul67

You and your casually-dropped-in-financial-incendiary-device-bon mots. :)

Ultimately, if they did fold and come back as some kind of MK Dons outfit, I wouldn't be shedding any tears.
I don't hold with 'we need them' attitude as if they are some kind of financial lifeline for Celtic. We'd be better off without them.

STANDING UP

Thank you Sanna.

It's good to be here.
I feel part of this great site now.

Standing up for the champions

Inkybhoy

I don't think Paul meant Rangers. He said some people had put forward the view that we would miss Rangers (I wouldn't miss them for a second). His bon-mots this morning seem to suggest “a club that no one would miss” was in big trouble. In this context, he can't mean Rangers.

A club that no one would miss? What, Real Madrid going bust? Who'd have thought it?

P67 - don't think that your referencing the ReaRangers here?

My monies on the Jam tarts. Its getting to "salary" time again and they had a bit of a hoo-ha with cash flow (later explained as an admin error) in September.

Romanovs bank is also going through the grubber at the minute...so he may not be able to go guarantor.

Must be Hearts...

ML3inarow

Welcome - you wont feel lonely here - seems to be a lot of MLers on site ......... you may even one day appear in a cameo role in TGITW. Fame at last

I work in ML4 and got the distinct impression it was hunland around that neck.

Celtic First

I know, but I just wanted to throw in tuppence-worth on the Gers.

I'm thinking a club needing capital, if you get my drift.

It must be the Embra FOD. I agree with Paul - who would miss them - not sure even their Glesga cousins would

I loved the Hibees phoney money jibe at the weeekend - the Romanov notes even made Saturday evening Sportscene.

Fitba humour - canny whack it.

Inky

Real Madrid is a team from the capital.

Chelsea?

Its great that the clubs mentioned so far are rather hunic.

I wouldnt miss any of them.

WG

You also featured fondly and frequently in the conversation with McGrain. He explained his connection to you through Tully 57. He paid you both the compliment of being the most committed Tims he knows.

Celtic_First....Real are even more ingrained into the Spanish Establishment than ReaRangers.

If folk here think it would never be allowed to happen to ReaRangers (though I think there is a misguided naivety on this considering major banks are going to the wall), there is a far lesser chance of it being Real Madrid.

There are many Spaniards hopeful though!

Celtic First

I see what you did there...in the words of Woody the cowboy in Toy Story 2 'Clever...clever'. :)

I have to apologise for my slow-wittedness today, having a mare with a wsahing machine and bedding

ReaRangers ingrained with the Scottish Establishment of course.

Theriotsurvivor, it is indeed getting near salary time again.

Paul and Theriotsurvivor

Dont know about those Jambos but Im glad to see salary time looming again...........

BTW the Hibeed look a threat going foward but a sieve at the back. I think Caddis v Riordan would be the best match up for us

Paul67

Oh it is a welcome step along the road OK and it shows that pressure on stopping TFS is getting results.

You will note I did say that Rangers need encouragement, that is more encouragement to do more.

They could try and emulate more of what Celtic have done including addressing Jinksyboy's point about really facing the issues and also establshing a reasonable on line Rangers Support community, the equivalent of CQN or KDS, to counteract the worst aspects of FF. We/you could even give them tips in that respect. ;)

Jinkybhoy,

Thanks for the welcome. I wouldn't say ML3 is hunland, dont now about ML4 though. I can think of more Celtic pubs in ML3 than Rangers pubs which is good.

Maybe one day I will appear in TGITW. I live in hope.

Good to be here Paul67, sorry it took me so long.

ML3inarow

The Bellshill / Mossend area seems to be a bit dark - although we have a higher tim contingent at work than anywhere I have previously been in Glasgow or Fife (although there were a fair few tims in Glenrothes)

Aks WG if you can share the limo down to Owd twaffod - but watch out for the pwicks and keep your bwest covered

Auldheid, So 'Wattie' doesn't work with anyone day to day who has a sectarian attitude then ?

Must be one of those freak coincidences then that every Catholic player they sign for their club chooses all by himself to not make the sign of the cross entering, leaving or on the pitch. It couldn't possibly be someone telling them not to do it.

Celtic_First………………………………….

I am beeeling that I missed you and McGraininSpain.

I have watched loads of Celtic games over the years in Paddys Point.

Its always heaving in P.P. for the big games.

I have some family over for the week and my youngest was playing football over so I couldn’t get in to P.P.

It was also my birthday. But I am still gutted about missing you’s

I have never met McGrainin, YET but I am sure we will meet up sometime.

Anyway 3 points in the bag. Onwards and upwards.

BigJoeTheBirthdayBhoy

Tontine Tim

" So why on earth are we trying tae appease those who hate us for what we are and would like nothing better than to see us disappear, we must remain faithful to our heritage, we are Celtic, not Glasgow Hibernian or United."

As long as you see this debate in the context of "them" you are locked into "them" and the dynamic never changes.

As I have been saying recently it is not about them its about us, who we are and what we stand for. I should maybe have said the best of who we are and the best of what we stand for.

You give many examples of the best of who we are. I submit that no matter the justice of the cause, any act of violence against any human being is not an example of the best of who anyone is. Indeed it is a failure on all sides to be the best.

The trick is to see this as a stand alone issue, in a sense to promote that higher self that you allude to in most of your post. I think this story says it all.

A Grandfather from the Cherokee Nation was talking with his grandson.

"A fight is going on inside me," he said to the boy.

"It is a terrible fight and it is between two wolves."

"One wolf is evil and ugly: He is anger, envy, war, greed, self-pity, sorrow, regret, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, selfishness and arrogance."

"The other wolf is beautiful and good: He is friendly, joyful, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, justice, fairness, empathy, generosity, true, compassion, gratitude, and deep VISION."

"This same fight is going on inside you, and inside every other human as well."

The grandson paused in deep reflection because of what his grandfather had just said. Then he finally cried out; "Oyee! Grandfather, which wolf will win?"

The elder Cherokee replied, "The wolf that you feed."

Henrik

I would tell my lad not to walk through Bridgeton in a Celtic top. Does that make me sectarian or just giving good advice faced with a reality I personally wish were not true?

Auldheid, I think it’s too late for Rangers to do anything about the online situation, although it’s interesting that they are now publicly gunning for the “bile” in a gloves off manner.

Big Joe, belated regards.

Jinksyboy

I agree but I would encourage Rangers to try to move to the same higher ground. There is plenty of room.

Tontine tim,
hail hail, never apologise for who you are or where you come from, and if people want to tug their locks in ignorance and appeasement let them thats their shame.
Hail Hail

Jinkysbhoy

Those who know me would tell you I am one of the most positive, and optimistic Celtic supporters going. Paul 67 himself witnessed this in Donetsk when I was still believing when 2-0 down after 20 mins. Similarly I was one of the few who did not 'chuck in the towel' after Motherwell in April, nor have I ever left early.

I did however happen to be at Old Trafford on Saturday evening to see Man U in the flesh, and for once I am going into a match really very concerned that Celtic get really 'done over'.

I hope I my fears are misplaced, and I blame no one for this, it is simply a massive gulf in finances, and a bit of bad luck regarding injuries.

Emphasising the former point was the fact that Tevez, Carrick, Scholes, Anderson, and the other young Argie lad were sat next to us in the stand !!

Sadly not many will live with the current Euro champs this year now that they are firing.

One point I did want to make to those who were dismayed by Celtic playing a left sided defender at right back on Saturday. If anyone had watched Man U, and Rooney in particular in recent months he spends a lot of his time hovering wide left, getting the ball and out muscling / out pacing defenders, but nearly always cutting inside. Maybe our coach had something in mind when he put an experienced defender in this position instead of Mark Wilson who was so easily pushed about by Cousin.

Anyway by tomorrow at 7.30pm I am sure I will be back to believing again !

Paul

Not as part of a more enlightened strategy its not. First steps etc.

Not for nothing does my sig say
"Time has purpose you know, it stops everything happening all at once."

I watched a rerun last night of the ICT game and I thought that the chant that would annoy most of the people in Scotland then being whom they are were references to the Pope. As in God bless the Pope. Yet little has been mentioned on this on the song debate on CQN. What is Celtic´s official view on chants which contain references to The Pope?

Hail Hail

Don't know if this was posted already - but a great link up with Barca in operation if this story is to be believed.

http://www.sportinglife.com/football/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/08/10/20/manual_100830.html&TEAMHD=soccer

Burnley'78

Did you get to watching the match in or around Leeds on Saturday? I did post last week to try to finalise where you were headed but didn't hear back...

At least we got the 3pts though!

EHIY

wolfetonebhoy

I heard the stories about Sylvinho in January and this seems to add another kid to the mix.

If we can get a regular link up with Barca it would be excellent for us. Even if ultimately some of them ended up going back to the Nou Camp it would still be great to have that type of quality for a season or 2...

And if we can get Sylvinho permanently even better - the guy is a class act.

EHIY

I thought I had read that the Hearts players are paid weekly? Is it the other staff on their books that are going to be the problem? Any road, I have to say that I wouldn't shed a tear at Hearts' problems. I wonder how those eejits who were wearing the russina hats and trying to Coassack dance outside Tynecastle a few years ago feel now?!

This is a strange week. I am honestly, hand on heart, more concerned about the Hibs game at the weekend. It may seem wrong but I've written off Tuesday night as I'm more concerned about the League this year, especially as Rangers have no other games to worry about. I obviously hope we can do something in Manchester but my main concern is that we pick up no further injuries, particularly up front. Losing either Macdonald or Maloney in the next two weeks would be nothing short of a disaster.

Big Joe

Happy birthday. We knew it was a long shot, but it would have been great if we had bumped into you.

Banner in the Inverness Caledonian Thistle crowd on Saturday:

'Big Jock Knew - we won 3-2'

Is there a follow follow style CQN hate list?

Exiled Hoop In Yorkshire

Agree 100% cos with the current economic climate we're not going to see many big money buys coming to Celtic Park. I don't mind us having any good barca youngsters for a couple of seasons as the benefits will work both ways. I'd be in two minds do about taking the youngster messi on board as he wouldn't fit into our current system!!! Sylvinho must be on a big wage at Barca so at 34 he could be an expensive signing.

p&b,

I feel the exact same, after reading Peter Pointers comments today. I´ve already made arrangements to get the sofa pushed off the wall. If we can get an early goal then maybe we can hang on. This is why also I´d prefer not to qualify for the Uefa Cup. If we win the SPL this year then the credit crunch will really hit home next season,

Hail HAil

The Barca connection has to be a good thing for Celtic.

We can all see the quality of passing of young Marc Crosas possesses.

If as suspected Naka leaves in Jan then this other venezuelan boy could fill that space even if only for a year or 18 months.

And from what I have saw of Silvinho he would be a great signing.

Maybe barca could take Donati from us in return !!!!!!

Paul67

Walk on

I hope it's the hearts and you'll never work again lol

Porridge n bannanas

I agree its the 3 points on Sat. I'm after and not to be embarassed tomorrow night (so 1-1 is my prediction/ hope). They will very focussed on the SPL this season and I hope we remain so as well.

vmhan aw

Celtic_First………………………………….

cheers....................But

Not that long a shot……………………….

as I was in the area, at the time………….

But just dident have the time 2 get to P.P.

My 2 bHoys play fitbaa in Pilar,

you would have passed it going to the airport,………………..

so we spent most of Saturday down that way.

I managed 2 watch the game on my laptop via channel 67+

If you are ever in the area aging drop me a line.

BigJoeWhoHasAheadLikeaSHED

Exiled Hoop

Sadly I got a late offer for Man U WBA game which necessitated a 'dress code' with collar and tie. Thus spent nervous lunch time with ear glued to my pals comentary on my mobile, whilst trying to acquire said 'collar and tie' as I had not packed for this.

Thanks for the info, I am down every couple of months so will try to meet up for a beer sometime.

Cheers

wolfetonebhoy

Hadn't realised Sylvinho was as old as 34 but he seems keen and you never know, he might be a player that wages aren't the be all and end all for! A season and a half as our 1st choice LB would hopefully (is this wishful thinking?!) be long enough to find a younger more long term option...

EHIY

Paul 67……………………………..

cheeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeers .

I must admit……………………

I don’t feel OR LOOK like 21 : - )

BigJoeWhoISstillCelebratingHisBirthday

Jinkysbhoy, Burnley’78 did indeed say, “We won’t lose this game” when we went 2-0 down in Donetsk.

Auldheid, I’ll contemplate that when I have more.....

Vmhan aw :-)

Paul67

my Heart of Mid-Lithuania goes out to them. really. no really it does. seriously. :o) Now for Big FOD.

a sneaky 2-1 victory tomorrow night. I believe otherwise what is the point.

Hail Hail

Celticlover, don't know if you have any takers for your tickets, but if not, I'll take the two for Hibs and I'll give face value to CQN's charitable fund. My e-mail is my user name at gmail dot com.

pablophanque

Big Joe

all the best mate

Hope you have even more cause to keep the celebrations going as the week goes on

.

For Anyone Who Thinks the Outlook is Bleak For Tomorrow Night....

It Gets Worse

The Referee is Bleeckere....Flemish Frank De Bleeckere....

o1weatherBhoyCSC

If Celtic sign Jeffren Suraez then PL, GS and people will deserve a lot of credit. Really good player!! Fast pacy winger

Paul 67 / Burnley 78

Well with all due resepct then Burnley 78 - you have been wrong before so heres hoping you are again now.

keep the faith

that was the Ali G spelling of respect there BTW

ANNAOAN , P&B ,

agree somewhat regarding the focus for this season , it's 3-fold.

The league , the league and the league.

In saying that , I wouldn't like the team to take a psychological battering that would go along with finishing bottom of the group. Remember , we've never done that.

It may be time to look (seriously) at putting out a 2nd (comparatively) team in the CIS and Scottish Cups (at least until we know where we stand).

I never want to contemplate a Celtic team losing but sometimes it's a 'lose the battle , win the war' scenario,

Hail Hail

Sannabhoy

Dublin Bhoy re: your comments on my previous post on the thread before this (re: songs and anachronisms).

The reason why I say the tail wagging the dog is that the 20th century Irish were a small trickle compared to the huge 19th century flood of Irish in Scotland. Best source for this is the Irish in Scotland by James Handley. I still feel that borrowing trends from later Irish immigrants and modern Ireland itself into a Diaspora identity is not in the heritage category for the huge majority of Scottish bhoys and is simply a political choice. If people stuck to what is their real heritage, only about 10% of Glasgow bhoys could claim things like the tricolour, popular republicanism and most of the rebel songs as part of their heritage. The old Irish flag (green with gold harp) was a lot lot nicer anyway :0)

Me and my family (with Irish Catholic roots) certainly feel that way and I know many more who also feel that the appearance of imported political-focussed Irish identities was very unfortunate and hugely harms relations. Like it or not singing nationalist songs about fighting the very country you are standing in it is never popular anywhere. That’s not a Scots proble

themanfromghordknowswhere ,

talkin' about tail wagging , what's happened to Collie or has his/her moniker changed.

Sannbhoy (allofasuddenfeelinghemighthavepoouthisfootinit csc)

sannabhoy

I wouldn't be concerned if we put out a reserve side for the Cups and I agree it wouldn't be great to finish bottom of a group which contains a side as poor as Aalborg, and the only time we did finish bottom we eventually lost the League (in 2004/05).

It might not be as bad a problem if we have a full squad, I'm just a bit concerned with the injuries we have just now.

I'm just wondering aloud here, but have we ever had a fit JVoH regularly throught the months October - February? He always seems to pick up injuries around this time!

Just had a wee sneaky peek at FF. Old Watties getting hammered on there. Spineless and gutless are two of the more printable names used for him.

The Gate In The Wood continueth......

Episode 60 - The Spurned Sponsor

This Morning, SFA HQ

Wilma: Scottish Football Association, Wilma Waddell speaking - how many tickets would you like to purchase for the Messi-less Argentinian Homecoming Ceilidh In Association With Chaughey Chill ?

SMD: In a word, None, Wilma. Put me through to Brother Gordon Duffield immediately.

W: I'm afraid Sir Gordon is currently engaged in contractual conversation with fridge magnet, Willie Chaughey.

SMD: MAGNATE, Wilma. The word is MAGNATE not magnet. It takes one to know one and I know them all.

W: Well they say opposites attract. And who might I ask would like to converse with our esteemed Chief Executive and Saviour of The Scottish Cup ?

SMD: It is I, Sir Murray David - Owner, Chairman and Chief Executive of David International Diamond Drill Yieldings, Unlimited Liability.

W: Oh Sir Murray - you promised me a tiny sample of your prized South African gemstones. I trust you haven't forgotten the Dalry Thistle pavilion favour ?

SMD: Of course not, Wilma. Everyone knows I'm a man of my word. Duffield please........

Jinkysboy……………………………….

Cheers M8………………………..

I wonder what price the hoops are for an upset

We have 2 brake oor duck some time………….

Looks like 14 to 1…………………..

Must be worth a 10er……………………..

BigJoeoff2theBookies

One of the small mercies in having a string of injuries now is that players who miss a month, say, at this time of year, will be reasonably fresh when they come back into it while others around them may be a little jaded.

We know we need a squad. We need the players further down the squad to be able to perform. For some of them, it's a question of experience. Let them gain some experience now. Every now and again, one of them will step up, perform brilliantly and become undroppable.

cheers P&B ,

forgot about that year - must have expunged it from my memory . THANKS for reminding me !

First season , if I remember correctly , JVOH got injured and it was blamed on not doing the 'Celtic' pre-season . Last year , I think he also missed a few games.

Maybe he's just that sort of player. We just need 20+ goals from him - that's all.

Henriks Sombrero ,

had a look myself earlier - I 'loved' the quote along the lines , "we're not sectarian but I'll tell you what is the cause of the problem - catholic schools" - you couldn't make it up.

Sannabhoy (livinginhope csc)

WG

"fridge magnet". Brilliant.

Good Morning All from the from The Great White North

Does anyone think there might be a surprise appearance of a certain Paddy McCourt the morra?

gsu

For anybody looking for a party before the game....tickets in advance only though:

From M'chester Eve. News...
16/10/2008

LAST time footie fans from Glasgow headed to Manchester, the city faced a clean-up bill of millions.

But supporters from the green side of the Scottish city needn’t fear the cold shoulder when they head for Manchester next week.

That’s because one social club in Fallowfield is vowing to roll out the green and red carpet for both sets of fans for next week’s Champions League clash between Celtic and Manchester United.

St Kentigern’s on Hart Road is hosting an all-day party before the game, on Tuesday, October 21, to give supporters time to get into good spirits before heading off to Old Trafford.

Celtic has a strong Irish following through its Catholic affiliations, and St Kentigern’s – with its own Irish connections – has plenty of supporters for the Glasgow team..........

The event kicks off at 10am when fans will be treated to a full Irish breakfast. Throughout the day, food and entertainment will keep the party going - along with a drop or two of the black stuff.

London-Irish rock band The Bible Code Sundays will be on hand to get the fans into good voice, performing twice, at midday and 4pm. They have their own Celtic connections, having been taken by the club to Barcelona to play to the Glasgow fans prior to their match last season.

Chris also has one pair of tickets for the Battle of Britain match which will be raffled off on the day, with proceeds going to charity.

The match between United and Celtic is expected to be good-natured, and police are not expecting the kind of clashes that took place when Glasgow’s other team, Rangers, played the UEFA Cup final here in May.

Admission for the event at St Kentigern’s is by advance ticket only, priced £10. They are available from the club, or by calling 0161 248 5200 or via www.oconnorpromotions.co.uk

info courtesy of a fellow poster a few blogs ago.
vmhan

Sannabhoy

Catholic schools do have a lot to answer for though

How many of us gave money to the black babies when we were kids

Thanks to the catholic schools we were taught not to be racist and charitable from a very early age.

Taught us that Christ died for the sins we and others have yet to commit - compassion for others.

Thats why they hate us - evil always hates good.

I have heard from a few folk through here in Edinburgh that the administrators are about to take up residence in Tynecastle. £30m of debt with a modest fan base but one valuable asset - a stadium in a prime residential development area.

I'm no fan of the jambos but it would be a shame to see a big Scottish team with a lot of history go under. Looks like Dunfermline were right to send mad Vlad packing even if they are now in the 1st Division.

Watched the game on Saturday and was absolutely gobsmacked that both Black and Imrie escaped red cards. Black could have walked for his boot at McGeady alone. With howling wind and boots flying everywhere we were never going to see flowing football so it was a superb three points gained.

I am hopeful but realistic about tomorrow. The form book says that Man U will win comfortably so anything we can take from the game (even if it is just pride like we salvaged a couple of years ago) is a bonus. The main worry for me at this stage is that Champions League performances affected us quite badly this year. I really hope that, whatever the result tomorrow night, we are raring to go against Hibs next weekend.

Craiginho
Lucky rabbit's foot/white heather/four leaf clover all looked out CSC

thebhoyfromghodknowswhere

"Like it or not singing nationalist songs about fighting the very country you are standing in it is never popular anywhere"

I don't know any rebel songs referencing fights between Ireland and Scotland.

Now if you are referring to the UK or Greater Englandshire, I guess "Flower of Scotland" and even "Parcel of Rogues" might be considered traitorous.

Tontine Tim

Great post earlier. I hope that those with such well preserved memories are getting their thoughts down for posterity as it helps us to remember where we came from. Good considered response from Auldheid too in conciliatory language which engenders good debate.

Winning Gemmell

Do the Maths! Surely Shammy McIlroy is less than a fifth of an Internationlaist.

......

GD: Gordon Duffield, Chief Execuitive. How may I help you ?

SMD: You can help by explaining why you've leapt into bed with Chaughey Ar La for starters. I thought we had a deal. We shook hands on it BROTHER Duffield.

GD: Hmmm - yes, I was going to call you regarding that very subject Sir Murray

SMD: Well I'm not best pleased. In fact I'm extremely hacked off.

GD: Politics, Sir Murray. Politics and fish.

SMD: Politics and fish ?

GD: I've had a recent phobia about fish and the smells fish emanate. It may have interfered with my judgement.

SMD: You need help, Duffield - Therapy.

GD: I got help from Brown Grayling...... er.... Browning.

SMD: What's all this fish nonsense got to do with my spurned sponsorship of the Scottish Cup ?

GD: Narrowboat macaroon fondant and Worcestershire Sauce crisps. I can say no more.

SMD: You're out of your mind Duffield. I'm reporting you to The Grand Lodge of Scotland - you're not fit to be in The Chair at Lodge Novo and you're openly cavorting with Cofflicks.

GD: Willie Chaughey is a good friend of mine, a good friend of Scottish football and a good friend of Cash-For-Kids.

SMD: He's a Goddam Tim for goodness sake. You'll be bidding for Lee Naylor's signed jersey next. Get a grip Duffield.

GD: Chaughey put me in touch with two high ranking Scottish government offishals - Alec Salmon and Nicholas Turgeon. They believe they can cure me, Murray. They've put together a package involving Lourdes, Hearts and a friendly against Lithuania in Mossend. It sounds like a goer.

SMD: This is WAR, Duffield. The gloves are off. You have betrayed the greatest entrepreneur in the history of the Scottish business sector. I will have my revenge, big time. YOU'RE HISTORY, DUFFIELD.

TBC

WG

Chaughey Ar la

fantastic

If it is Hearts that are about to go under, it will be interesting to see the stance our First Minister takes.

He is a keen football fan and known Jambo.

Would he step in? Would he negotiate with the SPL on future schedule's and obligations....the point deductions for going into admin...would that be right considering Gretna went to the wall unsupported?

Could be a fore runner for other potential casualties.

My thanks to Celticlover for his very generous donation to the CQN charity fund.

pablophanque

For all you folky folk:

The Chieftains r on BB2 tonight at 7pm.....damn I'll miss Emmerdale!

I feel the temperature rising, c'mon the hoops......I won't be sleeping tonightCSC

vmhan aw

Team to gub Man U tomorrow

Boruc

Wilson Caldwell McManus Naylor

McGeady Brown Hartley Robson Nakamura

Maloney

Bhoys

How sweet it is

Celtic - penny pinchers - spend a tenner for every fiver etc etc.
Now Celtic healthy going into the biggest recession in modern times

Hibs - almost under - Jambos under Mercer to takeover the club - briing through a raft of their own young guns and sell them on wiping the clubs debt.

Meanwhile on the dark side of Scotlands two major cities the forces of evil are drowning in their own mire. Foreclosure abounds.

Celtic First -

McGrain is a diamond and now you know it.

WG

SFTB -

My currency is words no numbers

:-)

WG(ML2)

WG

Isnt there a connection between Nicholas Turgeon and seafood other than surname.

I recollect an SNP nickname - something like Seaweed - as even the tide wouldnt take him/her out

Maybe if enough SPL clubs go bankrupt they'll let us move leagues.

I reckon an association of financially prudent clubs would get the blessing of the current UEFA management. Instead of joining the money bubble that is the EPL we could apply to join the Bundesliga.

Setting free.....and for the Hamburg games we've got a ready made local support....St Pauli

vmhan aw

Couldn`t the Scottish Government sink a few billion of taxpayers money into Hearts, then we could all own part of them. I bags the first eleven, i`ve got a few diy jobs needing done about the house. Not trying to be too greedy but I could also use the groundsmen as my garden needs tidying up. And i`d like to put my big huge giant massive portrait of The Pope up in the Gorgie Stand. Not much of an ask, is it?

Just saw Ruud Van Nistelroy's straight red card at the weekend. No comparison with Blacks tackle on Aiden.

jinkysboy -

God forgive me but I can't stand the living sight of her

WG

WG

I met her and Salmond a few times around ten years ago - she isnae any better close up - he is almost better looking than her (almost).

Dont know why but I saw her a young Thatcher regards her looks and personality.

Poor lassie

All joking aside... Hearts going under this early in the season would simply be disasterous.

Setanta (who rumours say may be in there own difficulties) may be able to argue (not unreasonably) that they signed up for a league of 12 teams - and one was expected to be Hearts which has a 'decent' if not huge following. Perhaps it might give them the scope to either renegotiate or worse walk away from their contract... that in turn could make for a nasty house of cards (remember Ondigital anyone?).. I don't think Celtic were dependent on the income but I'm guessing every other team is. What about season holders.... can they get a refund for less games... All teams are dependent to an estent on their matchday income...

I know this all doomsday.. but ultimately Celtic don't want to be the team with no viable league???

B

Winninggemmel

Current episode is a Belter !
Keep em coming

Paul67,

I see my man Suraez getting linked today. What a signing that would be!!

jamsielegend

I think that is THE team to go with tomorrow as we need an option on the bench to bring on and McDonald can't play on his own up front, not sure maloney can either but he's more mobile and can take people on.

Although if we play like this then we can't expect our forwrds to do anything if we punt the ball long as we did on saturday, inspired from our captain wouldn't you agree???! with a small guy up front and two small guys on the wings what did he continually do??? pump it long! its not rocket science 'Mick'!

Although I think tomorrow it matters not, as pumping it anywhere will do me as long as its away from our goal! 0-0 draw and an inspired performance from the holy goalie!

P.S if john o'shea plays in the centre of their defence we should play our best looking player there to pre-occupy him!!:-) well that according to ManU fans the last time I was at Old Trafford!

DD

pablophanque & jinksybhoy:

re. tickets. Pablophanque has taken the 2 tickets for the Hibs game and made a gracious donation to the CQN charity.

Jinksybhoy - the M/well tickets have now been taken. Sorry.

WGS

Sky Sports News carrying the story below - looks more than hopeful

Suarez: Celtic interest

Barcelona starlet Jeffren Suarez has told skysports.com that he would love the chance to play for Celtic.

The Venezuelan-born winger is part of Barca's first-team squad after being promoted from the B squad by coach Pep Guardiola in pre-season.

However, he is yet to make his La Liga debut and is being tipped to make a January switch to Parkhead.

Celtic have very good relations with Barca having taken Marc Crosas from the Camp Nou in the summer.

Now The Bhoys are lining up a deal for Suarez and also Sylvinho - who has already stated he is very much up for the move.

Suarez has now joined Sylvinho in declaring his interest in joining the Scottish champions.

"I have some chances to play for Celtic and it would be an excellent destination," he told skysports.com.

"I have spoken with Marc [Crosas] and he told me that there is an excellent atmosphere at the club in all aspects."

Suarez's agent is his father and he added: "We have spoken with Barca and [Pep] Guardiola and they accept he can leave.

"We expect more to happen in the next few weeks."

any players you'd take from hearts in the ensueing fire sale ??

Paul - A couple of the bhoys were asking when the 'Live Draw' will be for the 5s? They're hoping to be able to get online at whatever time it is. To think I thought they werent up for it as well! You're also not leaving me much time to get a hold of Rugged Islands Ice Cream Van to get some spying done on the opposition!!

I've been asking around the shops here to see if anyone fancies sponsoring some stuff, with only Tesco showing an interest. I've to phone them back tonight for an answer though indications are good.

celtic lover

No worries mate - been trying to get a hold of a mate to see if he wanted to come but couldnt get him so far.

Cheers anyway. Will probably get one from CP.

As long as the fund benefits - great gesture BTW

donegaldanny,
Double whammy then with Sami out.

canamalar,
Kingston is a good player but do we need another midfielder?

Evra officially ruled out

So Islam Feruz made his debut for the Youths at the age of 13, I remember hearing about him a couple of years back but presumed we had/would lose him to Man Utd.

Has anyone kept tabs on him in the past year?

Estadio Nacional

Enjoy your winnings (said through gritted teeth) :)) It was a great series and looking back through the season the Rays do deserve their moment in the sun.
For the Sox, they have had problems with injuries all season and negativity caused by the idiot Manny Iscariot. Next year will be different, though.

themanfromghordknowswhere

You raised some very interesting points that I need to think about before addressing. Don't worry I am not hiding from the discussion but your post deserves a more considered response.
What I will say is this...Irish emigration has been a constant ever since the Famine. The figures are there to see..pre-Famine 8.5 million and rising. Currently, approx 5.5 (including the 6 counties) and rising. The current rise has been down to a number of reasons but this trend only started in the late 90s, prior to this it was still falling. The Famine exodus, obviously, was a desperate flight for survival while in the 20th Century people left primarily for less urgent economic reasons. So yes of course there were larger numbers involved during the Famine...they were running for their lives. There was the 'fresh' flight from the 6 Counties by Republican/nationalist/Catholics in the late 60s and 70s as they too were leaving for personal security reason. As an aside, do people realise there were refugee camps all along the southern side of the border during the early 70s??.

I have spent most of my adult life outside of Ireland and I can tell you that the older ex-pats, wherever I landed, always saw that the constant influx of immigrants, to varying degrees, as bringing fresh blood to their community and was viewed very positively. It kept the link to home alive...it ensured their traditions and heritage would survive.

I am not sure if you have ever lived away from Scotland for any extended period but if you have, were you not very aware of your 'Scottishness', your uniqueness? There are a lot of ex-pats on this site, maybe they would like to share their experiences and their feelings towards Scotland while away. I know quite a few Scots particularly here in the States and they are just as proud of their identity as the Irish and as determined as the Irish not to loose that identity. As an example, I know someone who left Scotland when he was 14, was educated in the US system, and has rarely returned home. He still considers Scotland 'home' and speaking with him you would think he had just arrived into the country! Sure, he has the odd twang but he is determined not to let go of his accent. He is very proud of his country and will always support the Scottish national team.

I think the only real difference between ex-pat Scottish and Ex-pat Irish is that the Irish has a bigger tradition of song and dance and will practice though traditions at a drop of a hat...particularly after a few pints :)

I would like say to those Irish who have bleated on about no Republican songs are sung at matches at home. Open your eyes people....wherever there is a group of Irish together these songs, and others, WILL be sung. It happens everywhere...maybe not in the stadium but in the pubs surrounding the areas. Even though I was born in 'cosmopolitan' Dublin which has a slightly watered down version of Irishness, I was brought up with the songs that are being criticised for being sung at CP and by no stretch of the imagination is my family a Republican family (I'm the black sheep).

This is a much longer post than I intended and probably rambling a bit. I will get back to you though at some later stage with a more considered and structured reply, if I may.

Hail Hail

canamalar

Might take Lee Wallace - at the very least he'd provide some competition at LB.......

EHIY

canamalar

Maybe, in the fire sale, we could buy Vlad's bank shares?

canamalar

We weren't too far away from siging Lee Wallace in the transfer window, well he and Neil Lennon were in a taxi to the Caledonian hotel on Princes Street in Edinburgh, hopefully that isn't ressurected though!

Sylvinho and Suarez CSC

DD

Dublin Bhoy

In case you missed my post this morning on the last thread - commiserations on last night and well done to the team for a gallant effort and a fantastic scrap to take it to the 7th game.

Strachan on SSN just there - have to rethink our strategy from Villareal due to injuries. Waiting on Caldwell to see how he is

jinkysboy

Thanks, buddy...unfortunately it doesn't dull the pain. A good win for the bhoys tomorrow will definitely do the biz :)

Hail Hail

Ehat about driver/

then we could really turn the screw :)

jacket and scarf already on....

Jinky @ 1:20

Its the chaughey which is even funnier.

C Haughey!!

Dublin Bhoy

So close yet so far springs to mind

I suppose even teh Amstel and we hauf didnt help much and the best medicine would as you say be a result at OT tomorrow.

Chin up mate

Keep the faith

Paul67

Totally off the point and apologies if this has been confirmed elsewhere, but will we be seeing a thhird strip released over the xmas period as we need 3 strips for the champions league but haven't seen any yet, or are we just going with the black and green again this year?

DD

Lurgan 53

WG works it well from all the angles - the fridge magnet was funny as well.

I always look forward to the next episode much more than Corrie !!!

Seldom blogging these days but still lurking whenever I can...

A note for anyone hoping to watch tomorrow in North London: I drove past the Yucatan pub in N16 and it's all boarded up. (this might have been mentioned previously). It used to be good for watching the big fixtures. So it'll be the Tavern again next to Euston for me, CQN badge on the lapel.

On that topic: having recently moved to South London, I'm wondering if there are any good Sellick bars down this way, SW4? I know of celticbars.com but have usually found personal recommendation much more reliable.

Anyone know of any bars in Ballina Co.Mayo that show Celtic homes games? Possibly on Polish or Arab tv?

DD

Donegaldanny

Not sure of the clubs official word on the 3rd strip but the green and black strip went on sale very early in the year and is only stocked as a reduced item now and in very limited sizes. The green shirt likewise has been reduced in the shop since the Yellow 2nd shirt was launched.

I wouldnt be surprised if a new 3rd was launched - maybe they await to see if we progress after Xmas in CL or Champions League

Has anyone news on Marc Crossas's injury ?
Is he fit for tomorrow night?

jinkysboy

well whatever the scenario it will already be in existane as every club must register details of 3 kits for the champions league as a rule. All white with green trim would be excellent!

DD

Madra Rua

SSN reported that Crosas is out but it was not a CFC statement

donegaldanny

I liked the white with green and gold stripes from 3 years ago and would favour either a predominatley white or black with green / gold trim.

Im guessing they are holding the launch back for the Xmas market for as you say they have to register it with UEFA. Unusual ther have been no leaks (other than in our defence)

The Proclaimers have just re-released Sunshine on Leith, with one or two `tweaks` of the lyrics. New version as follows, feel free to sing along, and wipe that smile from your face, bhoy!

The Hearts are broken, And ahm no jokin
sorrow sorrow they`ve no tomorrow
The Hearts are broken and ahm no jokin

They had it, they blew it
and I willnay rue it

My tears are drying ahm no really crying
thank you thank you, no more, we`ll spank you
here ever after, my tears are laughter

you worshipped Romanov
Ahm laughin my @rse off
Youre no really worth the room on this earth
I will laugh at you
A kick in the teeth, there`s sunshine on Leith
i`ll thank God, for a good job
And your death, the freshest breath

Jam tarts are broken, Gorgies are boakin
hassle, hassle, there`s no Tynecastle
Jam tarts are broken Gorgies are chokin

More of a dearth, Scum of the earth
I will laugh at you
A kick in the teeth, there`s sunshine on Leith
I`ll thank Him, He`s a tim
diminished, you`re finished

Yes yes yes yes yes yes

madra rua………………….

Marc Crossas's is oooooooooooooooot

With his hamstring…………………………..

Not sure how bad it is………………

BigJoeThePhysioNOT

Strachan on SSN

Cracking jokes about beating Fergie as he is fitter and a better player an if it was one on one on the park he would have no problems.

The english press were laughing away at his jokes and patter - unlike Minty's minions up here

Henriks Sombrero, 12:54, not surprised Smith is getting hammered, it is a thankless task having to ask people to move into the 21st Century. Some will understand, but there is a large constituency at Ibrox who are stuck in “I’m not offensive, I’m right” mentality.

Craiginho, here was me saying that no one would miss them. Have a rethink.

WGS, I’ve never seen him.

Porridgeandbananas, the Live Draw will be coming to you soon direct from uefa headquarters in Nyon.

Donegaldanny, I’ve not heard any mention of a third strip, sorry.

BTW has anyone read the story that Celtic are looking to bring Marcus Allback to CP as well as ANOTHER midfielder in Pavel Zavadil (Czech) - both currently at Orgryte in Sweden.

Dublinbhoy.

You are correct in what you say. Irish ex pats - like Scottish ex pats no matter where in the world will gather together to preserve their identities and links with home. That is the way it should be. However they do not gather together to sing IRA songs. The way Irish people preserve links with home is in maintaining and developing Irish culture. In Scotland, England Australia, USA no matter where the Irish gather they do so to participate in Irish music, Irish dance and Gaelic games. Look at the number of Scottish / Irish families whose children learn and compete in Irish Dancing. The same can be said of Irish Americans and Australian Irish. In both those continents you will find Irish societies promoting Irish culture - games, music, literature. In Ireland, America and Australia you will find Irish coming together in competition - Scor Seachta - Dance, music and quiz and games. That is how a culture is preserved.

I too was brought up on republican songs. Like many thousands others I sang them with gusto. And I have lived through the troubles here and I have my own republican aspirations which are most likely a lot closer to yours than this post may indicate. But I know when to sing them and when not. I have no trouble in seperating my support for Glasgow Celtic from republican aspirations. There are many like me.

Finally can I ask you one thing? I read your posts with interest and always find them interesting. You are formidable in your views and I applaud you for that. However I must take issue with you on your use of "bleat" in your previous post. Those of us who oppose singing IRA songs are not sheep. Nor are we "tugging the forelock" as another poster (not yourself) stated, nor are we "believing a media hype".From what I read - and this is something which makes the site unique - all and I mean all posters here are intelligent, articulate people with strong views and minds of our own. Really hope you don't take the last paragraph the wrong way.

Ard mor ort agus beidh ar la an!

the man with no surname is a liar if he says he does not work with b1gots, unless the kit man/bus driver who refused to put out judas' top on pegs or sat arms folded in dug out for minutes applause for jinky no longer works at ibrox.
a lower low life you could not meet and the fact he holds emplyment there speaks volumes, far more than any "what more can we do" nonsense that is regularly peddled by those who have seeked financial gain frmo the mindless "minority".
Or next we will hear the strip really was tangerine

Lurgan
Well said. Preserving The BEST of Irish tradition.

Paul - :)

Scotland's Shame

Not to mention at least two of his first-team squad members (if the Ayrshire rumour mill is to be believed) and all those suits at the San Siro that evening when it was closed to the public. Unless they've all moved on.

Ayrshire rumour-mill? Where's DBBIA when you need him?

Scotlands Shame

IMHO that man is a liar, a bully and a bigot too. We all know what they are and I dont mean only the fans.

To my mind when the PLG exercise went belly up due to the "real rankers men" standing uo to him and his attempts to drag the club into the modern world - Minty tried to win back the fans by brining back the old guard - the bigots who will ensure the old traditions are maintained.

Twisted individuals and collectively poison

Another Barcelona connection

Celtic News : Celtic To Play Barcelona At Croke Park ?

The Fields of Athenry is set for another airing in Croke Park, but not sung by Irish rugby or football fans. The Bhoys are back in town or at least they will be if plans for Celtic to play a charity game come to fruition. The club has confirmed that officials there are looking to play a high profile charity match at Croke Park, possibly against Barcelona.

Dermot Desmond has been examining the possibility of a game for a number of seasons according to club CEO Peter Lawwell

“There's been an idea floated about the possibility of playing a game in Dublin at some point against top opposition,” said Lawwell. “The idea being that it would benefit our own charity and other good causes.

“It's been put to us in the last few seasons and unfortunately we haven't been able to pull it off yet. It's an ambition though and we would be interested.”

Meanwhile Irish striker Cillian Sheridan is due for a a baptism of fire at Old Trafford when he lines out in the first leg of Celtic's Champions League double against Manchester United.

Stripped of almost his entire first choice strike force by injury, Gordon Strachan has conceded that he will have to dig deep to find options.

Georgios Samaras is in Dublin for surgery on a cartilage problem while Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink is sidelined by a groin injury and Kiwi Chris Killen suffered a training setback last week and is also out.

“I can't remember the last time Cillian Sheridan played 90 minutes,” said Strachan after Celtic's win of Inverness Caley on Saturday.

“It's is a shame we had to push him forward that quickly but he did all right. It would not really be fair on him to play at Old Trafford on Tuesday but that is where we are,” he added.

While Strachan frest about strikers, opposite number and rival in chief Alex Ferguson has legacy issues on his mind - particularly last season's Champions League glitch against Celtic at Parkhead.

“We played brilliant football but we forgot the real reason for going to a game of football is to win it. And we left embarrassed because we lost to a late Nakamura winner,” said Fergie.

“It was a game we should never have lost. We did all the right things, our tactics were right, everything was correct, but I think the players enjoyed themselves too

There is a rumour going around the Mid West (Ireland) that Celtic are in discussions to play Sunderland in a friendly at the newly reopened Thomond Park,home of Munster rugby, Limerick.
The stadium now holds 26,000 and is looking at various fund raising events.

Is that well known pillar and champion of ecumenism, Andy Goram, still in gainful employment at the Brox?

Were the stories of their youth team giving the Billy Boys big licks in their dressing room all lies?

What planet is his Walterness living on?

Celtic First

Planet Scotland unfortunately.

jinkysboy 'n' celtic_first, I have been in WS's company on many occasions. He always came across as a very decent human being. I don't believe he is a bigot. I can't say the same of his boss and as for Jimmy Bell...!!!

Fergus Alexanderson on SSN talking of possibly resting Ronaldo, thinking of bringing Nani in for him.

Ok, go for it Fergus.

lurgan53 et all,
maybe you could name me another country which has been as anti irish from grass roots to the highest authority than scotland.
Most of the other places you mention in fact all the other places you mention welcomed the irish, hence no need for anything other than good nature.
Scotland is another question completely, and a degree of militancy was needed to gain the civil rights advances made over the centuries.
You still insist in labelling them IRA songs, to me they are folk songs and very few actually use the IRA acronym, in fact whilst you argue against them you encourage ignorance and legitamise the press agenda that they are sectarian.
I will agree there is no need to use add on's. but more to the point can you name me songs sung which glorify war?
your labelling of folk songs is sad.

Jinksyboy,

I havent heard the Allback rumour but I cant see what we'd have to gain by bringing in a 35yr old striker, when we already have McDonald, Samaras, Hesselink, Killen, Sheridan, Hutchinson and Maloney that can play in the same position. Granted, Samaras and Hesselink are injured for now, but will be fit again when the window opens.

Wee Bobby Collins

I didn't say anything about the attitudes of Walter himself. However, he is quoted today as saying no one he works with is a bigot. There is plenty of information to suggest he is being at best naive and, at worst disingenuous, sweeping the real problem under the Rangers carpet yet again.

if the quality on the pitch was better maybe we wouldn't be straining our ears to here 20 guys out of thousands singing inappropriate add ons?

let the people sing

Ulster-Celt

NEVER SAY DIE . BUT

Wilson Caldwell McManus Naylor

BE AFRAID, BE VERY AFRAID.

weebobbycollins

In my post I stated my opinion and you have yours.

I am not fooled by Uncle Walters public face - airbrushed by the fawning media.

And I dont share your opinion that his boss is a bigot - I dont think he is - just a businessman who uses that element of the club to make money (or lose it as the case may be).

I'm a bit worried about Tuesday night, surrounded by United fans at work, married to one, my father-in-law, (and I'm friends with Jim McCalliog's daughter and she's United daft there'll be no hiding places for me).

I'll settle for a 3-0 Celtic win which would mean a nice quite Wednesday at work

Paul Sorry for going slightly off topic, altough the debate is still about, but I was away at the weekend and did not get to answer some questions directed to me.

Hoopedreams/DublinBhoy

I did know the anthem was written in english but is no longer sung in english, and certainly wasn't written with some of the insertions sung by our support. I know its opinions but I feel the anthem is being disrespected.

As celtic supporters, are we supporting Celtic FC or working to some other agenda. Surely if the club asks for certain songs not be sung then we should respect that not sing them louder and longer as was done on Saturday by our away supporters. If we support the club then we do what the club asks.

Owen

What really gets to me is supporters tying the tricolour round their waste and then proceding to sit on it during the match. Some respect for the flag!!

Back on topic, it will take a miracle and a vast improvement in performance to get a point tomorrow, but this is Celtic and miracles do happen.

Keep the faith

Lurgan53

Thanks for your comments, they are appreciated and I do take them on board.
To address your specific point on "IRA" songs, I do not know many of these songs. Maybe you do, being from the 6 Counties. I do know a lot of republican songs, I do know a lot of resistance songs which mention the IRA but very few that reference PIRA.
Of course people do not specifically meet to sing these songs but at almost any time a group of Irish, and from my experience either at home or abroad, these Republican/resistance songs will invariably be sung. These are our songs...they are an integral part of who are. Some people may deny them but most embrace them.

I am on record here saying (ad nauseum) that I personally do not, did not, and would not sing them at CP. But my focus of this debate and real concern is the threat by Celtic FC to ban good Celtic fans if found singing them. I do not and will not accept this from Celtic. I am a board supporter, I am a WGS supporter but on this issue they are so wrong.

Hail Hail

Hail Hail

Celtic_First, I suppose he feels he has to say that, maybe even believes it. He works closely on a daily basis with Sally and KMcD, neither of whom is a bigot. As far as the players are concerned, very few could be considered bigoted... ugly, thick, horrible, anti-social gits possibly but bigots??? I really don't believe it. And before anyone starts giving names and examples, I did say VERY FEW...

A fine gesture by the Thompson family

They have requested the admission for Dundee Utds home game on saturday is reduced to £5 to allow as many who want to pay their respects to eddie to attend. Also they have stated they would not wish to make profit on the gate as a mark of respect to the fans.

I'm well aware of Scotland's anti catholic anti Irish agenda. I've lived with it here for 55 years so I can assure you I can recognise it. But if you think singing republican songs is the way to tackle it I'd say you are mistaken.

And no amount of semantic dexterity will fool anyone into thinking that Republican songs / IRA songs are anything other than just that.

For the record The Fields, The Wild Rover, The Holy Ground, The Leaving of Liverpool, I belong to Glasgow are Folk Songs.

TBOTOB is an IRA song

Wee Bobby Collins

Either the stories about two internationalists from his first-team squad singing anti-Catholic songs are incorrect, or what Walter said today is incorrect. Both cannot be true.

Lurgan53,
tug yer locks as long as you like, I'll keep my spine.

Lurgan53

I agree.

Jinkysboy, the face he showed me was not a false one. For a long period he thought I was one of them but after I told him I was a tim his attitude never changed. But I repeat, his boss is a different case altogether.

after returning from celtic park to Belfast I found I used to sing with a scottish accent.

ulster-celt

canalmar

Northern Ireland? Even there it has been recognised that certain aspects of tradition are worth giving up or at least leaving fallow for a greater good.

I'm not suggesting such aspect should be given up out of fear or favour (an excellent phrase quoted earlier)but because such aspects do not represent the best of the traditions and no longer serve any usefull purpose, unless offending folk is thought to be useful.

What offends folk should not be difficult to identify - it is anything sung or said with the express purpose of causing offense.

What folk can take offense at, which requires puting oneself in the shoes of the offended, is a different matter entirely but little has been done to separate one type from the other hence the fear that the baby is being ditched with the bath water.

In setting Celtic's agenda the kind of fear of loss of identity that you express would need to be recognised and catered for to give assurances that your worst fears aint gonna happen.

Just deleting some old e-mails and came across this from 28/02/06 !!!

"Dear Mr Phanque

Thank you for contacting us regarding coverage of Rangers v Villarreal and for your patience while we investigated your complaint.
I was sorry to read of your unhappiness with our commentators reference to the vocal support from the home fans in the 85th minute of this Champions League match.
As I am sure you can appreciate, all of our commentators, including Ian Crocker (the commentator for this match), are concentrating hard on the game in process. They hear the background noise but not the actual content of the shouting and the songs. The last thing Ian Crocker, who is English, would expect to hear is a song with the offensive line that you mentioned. Also our sound men are trained to listen out for foul language and to cut the microphones when appropriate. Unfortunately, in this particular case, a song like this would and did catch them out due to Ian Crocker and the sound engineer being English and unaware of the wording/history behind this song.
If I may also explain, Rangers Football Club have made huge strides forward in eradicating sectarianism from the ground. However, there still seems to be a small minority of the supporters with these bad habits. Sky Sports themselves are also involved in the 'Let's Kick Racism Out Of Football' campaign. Kick It Out works throughout the football, educational and community sectors to challenge racism and work for positive change.
I have been assured by our Deputy Head of Sky Sports that he will be instructing our commentators and sound engineers to be more vigilant, and not just to listen for bad language but for songs and chants of a sectarian nature.
Thank you, once again, for taking the time to contact us.

Your sincerely

Angela Hart
Viewer Relations"

Plus ça change..............NOT !

pablophanque

Teatime Today, Chez Alexanderson Cheshire

Cafe: So there are six of them in total ?

FA: Yup, six webels, six wepubwicans, six alcohowics from Wanarkshire.

Cafe: I need more to go on, Fergus

FA: Sammy will intwoduce them to you, Cafe. Pwy them with dwink and pwenty of it. Winston Bwegkamp Gemmell is our main quawwy but I beweive he is a dangewous man - a wuthwess and weckwess wascal who put Bwown Bwowning's wife in danger.

Cafe: He put Bertha Browning's life in danger ?

FA: No, he put Bwown's wife in danger.

Cafe: Fergus, you are as clear as mud today, darling. Are you apprehensive about the big match tomorrow night ?

FA: I'm despewate for two wesults tomowwow, Cafe and I need big Wio to be man of the match. I expect a sweepwess night.

Cafe: Is that a promise Fergus ?

canamalar.

Really expected a better arguement from you.

Ulster-Celt

Me too!! Hilarious!!

Wee Bobby Collins

The way Walter Smith and Ally McCoist stood up for Tommy Burns when he died says a lot for them as individuals and we should not forget the contribution they made. However, either there's a job to do to bring, as Paul 67 says, Rangers into the twenty-first century, or there isn't.

If that task is still pending, Walter Smith needs to be a part of the group of people that carries it out. If he wrings his hands a wee bit and then washes them and claims he can do nothing, what progress can his club make? He has a responsibility. He took some responsibility when TB died but today's comments suggest he does not have much appetite for keeping the momentum going.

Lurgan53

I suspect we will never agree on the songs then, as I believe to be a fine song...not a PIRA song but of an old guy reminiscing about the his mates that were involved in the proud struggle for Independence.
There has been a big attempt to rewrite Irish history, particularly in the south, by the worst type of liberals eg Kevin Meyers. They have attempted to portray the Irish War of Independence as acts of terrorism (quiet frankly you Lurgan53 do sound like them)!!!! Thankfully this has been roundly rejected as a ploy by the "west-Brit"/Dublin 4 element who have also been proponents of Ireland re-joining the British Commonwealth. This idea was even floated by Bertie Ahern. Again, again this was widely condemned and was quickly forgotten about. These elements are still there and will keep plugging away. Decent Irish people need to be vigilant.
Irish reunification is ideal that WILL come about...exactly when, is debatable but it will happen.

Hail Hail

Auldheid

So we should put ourselves in their shoes??? Who's shoes? The huns and their miserable media apologists? No thanks, I'd probably get some fungal disease.
If you mean some other groupings then how about they put themselves in our shoes for a change?

Its always us that have to change and apppease...why is that?

Hail Hail

Celtic_First, I think we know who THEY might be but again I say, I have been in and around their place for many years and have experienced very little of that from the players...WS may well be a bully and a liar in this case, I just don't think he is a bigot... but hey! I can't stand them ( even the non bigots) and I don't know why I am defending them....Hail Hail.

lurgan53,
if they are all IRA songs which are in turn pro war/terrorist then there is nothing to argue about, I cannot honestly find anything I want to say, you have made up your mind and anything further will continue to be worthless.

Wee Bobby Collins

I think your sticking up for him, based on your personal experience, is to your credit.

Dublin Bhoy

I think your fear of wrongful dismissal is a fair point.Celtic as far as I know have not specified what not to sing, but they could give more of an indication of what songs do adhere to their own house rules some of which surely would satisfy the vast majority of the support.

What I would do is look at the songs that Celtic have not discouraged, identify the criteria, apply them to Rangers songs and Billys yer uncle.

or

Look at songs that Rangers sing that are traditional and they have not been discouraged from singing. Identify the criteria/characteristics of those songs that make them acceptable, apply the same criteria to traditional Celtic songs and Paddys yer aunt.

The best of traditions recognised, honour retained.

The problem of course there is absolutely no process in place in which a meaningful dialogue could take place. Web sites are about the only places where views can be exchanged and those stay within their own territory and inevitably go around in circles.

Estadio Nacional

Sadly Nani contributed more in his 20 odd minutes than Ronaldo did in the entire game on Saturday.

The interesting thing about seeing the whole picture at the game was to note the lack of work rate, and general detatchment of Ronaldo.

Nani on the other hand was right up for cementing a place in the starting 11.

Nani for Ronaldo only makes our job harder IMO !

Auldheid

Now we are getting a convergence of views and ideas. Thank you for articulating them so very well.
This is one aspect that the "Old Firm" could be utilised to actually do some good for both clubs and more importantly both set of fans.
Very good, out of the box thinking

Hail Hail

when is Celtic park going to have an "Ulster Day"

Ulster-Celt

Burnley'78, agree with you about Ronaldo. Showed very little enthusiasm for his goal, as though in a huff with someone. Play him Awex.

Sir Paul

Just spoke tae the Walrus, and as ye Know.. or ..mebbe, dinnae No Know.. HE Knows, Everything!

Mebbe.. he He Dinnae Know, Not Anything at awe, but he sure Talks A Loat!(So, He Diz Know, then?..ed)(Na.. Hey!.. I believe ye ur right.. He really diz know, after awe!)
Ye Get the Idea?

Howevahhhhhhhhhh...

Ah am sure, Ah Am Making Maself... Poifectly Clear!

Get a load o' his Latest Poil o' Wisdom...

"The Ruination of Empires and Workers Dependability... are... Long Term Contracts."

Fargo, himself mentioned this.. so, either the Walrus has bin reading this Blog..or..Has frequented the same Chinese Joint, where Fargo gets awe his Poils, at the conclusion o' Dinner... jist afore Coffee is served.

Therefore, it is no Surprise to the Apprised, that Macko's form has Slumped,Tapered,Dimmed, Flickered, and Petered ... Pick a Pick.

I there fore,hereby declare..

Playing Mister McDonald as the LONELY LINWOOD STRIKER, is a No NO..
In fact I will go a short distance more, and say..

It would be a Mistake to Play .. Mister McDonald...

At Awe, At Awe.

His Form... is Flat out.. Too Flat for Prime Time!

So...

We need to come up with another solution.

I spoke to collie,over the Week End..and he says.. well..

I like His idea, it shows that the wee dug is not just another usual, common or garden, run o' the Mill, Poetically Inclined, Talking Canine..who, it seems are ten a penny,in Heligoland.

What is his Solution, you say?

You will find it contained in his Ultimate Poem of Yesterday.

I think it is a swell wan,but whit dae Ah know?

Well Ah dae know a Loat aboot Ten- Pin Bowling, if that is any comfort or is of any comport( Whit?....ed)( Hmmmmmm)

Kojo.

Weebobbycollins

I agree with Celtic First - it is to your credit that you defend him and I respect that. You asked yourself why you were - because you call it as you see it. fair play.

I have my own views on him and his ilk and in truth I probably have even less time for non-bigots who defend the bigots (Minty Smith McCoist etc - if thats where they stand) or even just look the other way. As much as I stand up for the Celtic I stand up for right over wrong and good over evil.

Never sure if thats the Irish, the Scot, the Catholic, or the trade unionist in me.

Auldheid,
I have a wee point you raise on the songs, it is my opinion that it doesnt matter the content of the songs, as we have been quite clearly shown by the condemnation of even "the fields of athenry" ffs, but who is singing the songs regardless of the content, it realy sticks in their craw that irish people are free to sing what they want when they want and even worse where they want and it always will until they accept our rights of freedom. But as long as we have spineless apologists who sympathise with them and legitimise their claims by being offended/embarassed by the folk songs instead of requesting the so called offensive bits are discussed, then this sad little discussion will continue.
Its no wonder the board are hiding behind the political label.

Dublin Bhoy

Its a process of reciprocation I'm afraid, but I find little in your statement to distinguish your closed mindedness on who we are dealing with from the closed mindedness that we are attempting to open by dealing with them.

Somebody has to take the first steps and if we are right in claiming we occupy the higher moral ground, with that honour comes the responsibilty borne of such maturity to take the steps to invite the less enlightened to share that higher ground.

They may of course refuse.

Oh and another thing...

PF ayr if you are lurking or skulking would you please answer my request for clarification for your snide, witless, ignorant comment to me yesterday?
Just to make it easier, I requested you explain yourself on yesterdays thread (Inverness 1-2 Celtic, SPL, 18 October 2008) at 10:50pm

Not holding my breath though.

Hail Hail

Auldheid . Dublin Bhoy

I admire the debate and also the proposed way forward and wish it was oh so simple.

So who would represent "us" at the table - we cant even agree amongst ourselves what are acceptable songs and even what are IRA songs.

Then theres the other lot - david egghead or Edward Ursus. One of these guys might talk some sense and reach a compromise - the other wouldnt know why he would ever have to.

canalmar

I agree with you that we should not enter this debate with any sense of inferiority, indeed you might detect I already think we have and hold the superior moral and to be honest intellectual position.

I hope my subsequent posts to Dublin Boy set out more of my thinking in terms of getting agreement and ideas on process.

On a song point did Peter Lawell not OK The Fields after that donut McNee had a go at it?

jinkysboy, essentially we believe in the same things, so no problem there. Standing up for the underdog, standing up for the wee man. ( unless he's a bigoted hun. )

jinksyboy

Dont push the river it flows by itself. We are only having this debate because of the current current (if you catch my drift - ouch).

I think the conditions are being created even now as this whole issue unfolds for ideas to germinate, take form and to flower.

Auldheid

If I have put myself across as being "closed-minded" then either I have not put my own personal views across very well, or you are picking and choosing what to believe about me.

I am a proud Irishman, and I will not have my country or culture attacked by those whose only "culture" is one of repression, murder and enslavement. This does not mean I will not take and accept criticism from reasonable people.

I can give you many examples of how I put this into practice but will not do so on this or any other online forum.

You have disappointed me with your words, though why I should expect anything else from anyone I don't not really know.

Hail Hail

October 20 1977 outside of Gillsburg, Mississippi, a light aircraft runs out of gas and crashes into the woods.

Hey Pablo, man- play FREEBIRD!

weebobbycollins

have you ever tried to see it from "their" perspective.

I have - read some stuff that takes their angle especially in the North of Ireland and how they feel let down by the authorities who sold them a pup (as they see it). Apparently some of my mothers side were of that persuasion - banging drums and paying flutes.

I have asked myself how I would see it if the coin had landed on its other face - would I hate Irish catholics and all they stand for.

And you know what - I honestly cant answer that question cos my brain doesnt work like that. Of course I would like to say "no I wouldnt" But I do believe that I would still stand up for right over wrong - but maybe my views on what is right would be reversed. Scary thoughts indeed.

Lhondondave

The Grove Tavern near Wimbledon, Prince of Wales (funny name for a Celtic pub!) near Earls' Court and there's one in West Croydon (can't remember the name) which are all fine.

..........

FA: Sowwy, Cafe. I'm too distwacted for wumpy-pumpy. We need to ewiminate Gemmell. My future in the wodge is at stake here.

Cafe: Fergus, don't take this the wrong way but should you not have outgrown freemasonry at this stage in your life ? You have made your mark on the world. It's time to move on.

FA: I can never weave the cwaft, Cafe. I'm a suboddinate compared to those in the higher echewons. The successful ewimination of Bwegkamp will see me cwimb Jacob's Wadder. I mean to pwogwess Cafe.

Cafe: Fair enough, Fergus. Okay that's Winston Gemmell sorted. What do you know of his accomplices ?

FA: Second in command seems to be a guy named NAFOS. He's a shwewd opewator, the bwains of the outfit, forward thinking and champagne dwinking with an eye for the wadies. Bweak out the bubbwy for him, Cafe. Distwact the shwewdy, wear a wow-cut bwouse or something ? Spwash on some of your favouwite perfume, Wiwy of the Vawwey.

Cafe: You're deadly serious, I've never seen you quite so ... er ...focussed. Who's next ?

FA: Spiwit of Arfa Wee.

Cafe: Is he related to Park Ji Sung ?

FA: No, he's Withuanian-Scottish. A tightwad with a dwink pwobwem, he's wikewy to be the weak wink especiawwy if he's had a few. He wikes vodka and teardwaps of cowa. I don't think he'll be any twouble.

Cafe: Then who ?

FA: A new kid on the bwock, some twained singer, a boy sopwano who goes by the stagename of Hugh Wichards who is a bit wight on the woafers. Wodge intewwigence suggests he and Arfa Wee might well be an item.

Cafe: Good grief, Fergus, this gets more complicated by the minute.

FA: The other two I don't know much about. The first is called The Badger on account of his silver hair. He can average a pint of Cawwing evewy seven minutes. The final guy concerns me - Uwysses McGhee sometimes known as Uwysses Magoo, a twavelling twoubadour and wounge wizard. I don't twust these two, Cafe. They're there for a weason and ours is not to weason why, ours is to weason Why Not. Winston Bwegkamp Gemmell will never see his beloved Wishaw again.......

TBC post-Manchester, ta for the feedback ghuys and good luck to everyone tomorrow. HAIL HAIL

WBG

Kojo, short term, regularly renewed, contracts are a fine plan.

Decry and Decry and Decry - was no surrender

Dublin Bhoy

I fear you are taking some of this right on the chin mate and feel as though you are isolated here. You are not.

I for one admire your stance - and even more when you reveal you never ever sing the songs in question. You argue the principal and I think the majority on here (even most who do not agree with your point) admire your strength of opinion and the rational behind it.

We may not know you in person - but your posts on here reveal enough about the man to say that you are defo one of the good guys and personally someone whos posts I read and take on board.

keep the faith

I've decided not to be disappointed tomorrow when we lose. Tomorrow's result is likely to be irrelevant. If anything, MU will come to Parkhead knowing they do not need to win if they win tomorrow. That is better for us. Remember that it is the last 3 games that are crucial. These are the ones that we knew going in that we would need to win. Ok- maybe a draw would have done against Aalborg but that is no longer the case.

Let's keep perspective. We do not have a team that can win away to MU. We can beat anyone at home and that is where we need to focus. I'm already dreading all the mineshafters getting on here after the game saying how we are not good enough etc etc.

Is the game on the council tele in the US?

Burnley'78

Cheers for that, guess theres not much to be gained from that tactic but I have a feeling Ronaldo would turn it on for a CL game.

Wilson will have either of them in his pocket.

On another note you just know that the rangers PR will be on over time again tomorrow. If they can go from Neil Lennon attempted murder to Novo address they can try to compare the slightest bit of bhoysterous behavior to Manchester in May.

DBBIA,

Posted in tribute to Ronnie Van Zant

And out in California, a rock star from Canada writes a couple of great songs about the
Bad shit that went down
"Southern Man" and "Alabama" certainly told some truth
But there were a lot of good folks down here and Neil Young wasn't around

Meanwhile in North Alabama, Lynyrd Skynyrd came to town
To record with Jimmy Johnson at Muscle Shoals Sound
And they met some real good people, not racist pieces of shit
And they wrote a song about it and that song became a hit

Ronnie and Neil Ronnie and Neil
Rock stars today ain't half as real
Speaking there minds on how they feel
Let them guitars blast for Ronnie and Neil

Now Ronnie and Neil became good friends their feud was just in song
Skynyrd was a bunch of Neil Young fans and Neil he loved that song
So He wrote "Powderfinger" for Skynyrd to record
But Ronnie ended up singing "Sweet Home Alabama" to the lord

And Neil helped carry Ronnie in his casket to the ground
And to my way of thinking, us southern men need both of them around

Ronnie and Neil Ronnie and Neil
Rock stars today ain't half as real
Speaking their minds on how they feel
Let them guitars blast for Ronnie and Neil

(Patterson Hood/ Drive By Truckers)

DublinBoy

Indeed. I love this story from one of John Powell SJ's books.

There are two guys living next door to each other.They have identical back yards separated by a fence running down the centre of the divide. The fence of Mr Brown on the right is painted brown on his side. Mr Green's fence is painted green on his side.

Mr Brown thinks the fence is all brown, Mr Green thinks it is all green. It is only when they chat to each other whilst leaning on the fence that they discover the actual truth, that the fence is brown AND green.

Whenever differences of view arise it is normally because at least one of the parties is not privy to something the other party knows or thinks that they know. Through civil dialogue (which is like debate but with emotional antena raised,) all parties can come to share a common vision.

And ye'll no get that on Follow Follow :0)

mncelt
I agree, win last three games and we are still in Europe maybe even the CL with 10 points although with their draw at Old Trafford, Villa Real would still be favourites to pip us.

The Songs Debate...

One thing I've noticed is that nobody involved in the debates ever seems to be persuaded to change their view. Hopefully lurkers are getting an opportunity to be persuaded one way or another.

Preferably in a way that benefits CELTIC.

If that also happens to help dig Rearrangers into their own hole - EVEN BETTER.

And without diluting our history, heritage, Irishness and Scottishness.

Anyone come up with a better formation than my 5-5-5 for tomorrow night? I will personally be playing a flat back 10 behind the couch, coiled like a spring in the hope of a Naka free kick from 100 yards out.

Gordon J- I have high hopes that the 'Celtic Anthem' being composed by James Mcmillan will be 'A Variation on a Theme by Lynyrd Skynyrd although I expect these hopes are not shared by CelticFirst.

Anyways, it was just to mark an anniversary and a good version of a song we can all agree on ;~@, except of course Pablo who yearns for A Flock of Seagulls..

Sir Paul

I just knew that you would agree,pal.

Old Ground,and all that.

The tragedy is,old friend, is if only we could convince the powers that be, of those wise sentiments.

I see it happen, regularly as clockwork... in Baseball..

The Dodgers, have wasted.. and I mean wasted..

Millions of perfectly good Persimmons, in making the same mistake.

Not only once..

But, Over and Over.

Bah!

Unfortunately, I blame my own profession.

Kojo.

DBBA,

McMillan meets Skynard would be something to behold.

Freebird is just one of the all time great rock songs. It's an endless debate when you get talking about what ranks highest (much like the songs one)but Freebird is on most people's lists.

Auldheid - to miss out on 10 points would be a sickener. I would hope MU take something off VR away - they have something to prove after failing to beat them at home. In any case if we come out with 10 points there will be no complaints from me.

evening bhoys and ghirls.

This songs debate hasn't half went on a bit innit!! I have read through a lot of the comments and can see and accept the points on many sides of the argument. IMHO, where some are arguing the rights and wrongs of certain viewpoints, we should be more ready to accept that we are a diverse bunch of folk who can tolerate each others different viewpoints. In many cases there is no wrong or right.

While some are happy to sing the songs, others aren't. Does that make either wrong? (particularly as there has not to my knowledge been any allegation of racism, sectarianism or any other illegality about the songs in question). My main worry about the whole process is the request for us to self police. Why should we police something which is not against the law. I think if this idea takes off, things will get worse before they get better.

What really annoys me about this whole situation is that it has been foist upon us due to the disgusting behaviour of others, not us.

Anyway, is there no a big match this week? I have a sneaky that this will be the moment when young Shaun repays us for his earlier mistakes. Free kick at OT, Naka style maybe??

Finally....A long shot I know! I`m going down south with a mate tomorrow. We have one ticket between us. Anyone got a spare ticket for sale? I can throw in a free lift for anyone that does!!

Hail Hail
Jamiebhoy.

I fear that I am both understanding and agreeing with Kojo, which is a worrying development.

If our plan was to push forward as much as possible and have the ball in their box at every opportunity then given all the options, Scott MacDonald would be in the team. However, the fact that his first touch is poor, that he is not a link man or holds the ball up and he does not run the channels means on his own up front is asking him to provide a job he is not built for.

I do think that Manure believe that the game is in the bag and we might be able to take advantage of this. Remember that there central midfield is missing and this is often the fulcrum of their attacks. If Broonie can harass Giggs out of the game then mibbee. The Holy Goalie will have to be at his most Holiest and carry huge slice of luck along the way but we must not go into the game fearing anyone.

Saturday aside they have been playing well without scoring lots of goals so if we keep it tight. Paul Hartley is probably more important than our Captain for this. And if/when our Captain is booked for a rash challenge I hope it is well away from the box and it slows his victim down.

Just checked ESPN listings for tomorrow and the game IS on live. ESPN2 and ESPN HD !! Marvelous. I will be able to watch the Bhoys in glorious High Definition.

Now to cancel a couple of meetings .....

Setting free the bears-re: UK vs. Scotland. I am very much a pro-independence person but I have to admit that the Scottish people have had the option to exit the union on some 12?? occasions and normally only a small minority have gone for it. So I have to bow to democratic reality on that one and accept that the vast majority value the UK and this is especially true of the large older chunk of the Scottish population. Only a small minority of the later didn’t also identify themselves as British to some degree. My rational that its common sense to not sing about fighting a country while standing in part of it remains.

All the worse when its the worst possible part of the UK to do it in due to an Ulster inspired orange/loyalist culture imported by Irish immigrants (they would love that lol) of another hue. Likewise, the worse place in the UK for Ulster loyalist type songs is west-central Scotland with its large population of Scots of Irish Catholic descent. Conclusion: the divide is too great so keep the ‘party songs’ private or at least to closed venues of like minded folk.

Taking about Scottish independence, while on my soap box, I feel the need to say I personally find it unbearable to listen to the likes of George Galloway clearly showing Irish republican sympathies while at the same time saying Scotland (a country with far greater raw resources and industrial tradition) couldn’t possibly run itself (he calls it a Brigadoon fantasy). This is an insulting and is an insanity a few tims share and frankly it angers me. Thankfully younger tims under 30 (personal experience and official stats) seem much more pro-independence which is at least consistent with their views on Ireland. Galloway is a great pretender and should stick to cat impersonations IMO

Dublin Boy

In saying what I did my intention was not to hurt but make you look at how what you expressed about how you feel about "the huns" might reflect on yourself.

I'm sure we would get on famously and I apologise for the barb, however well intentioned I told myself it was aimed.

I find it is so easy to become the same as what I want to change that I can become as bad as they are.

It requires my constant vigilance.

Again my apologies.

Celticfirst and Mcgrainin in Spain
Saw you in Paddys Point on Saturday though didnt know who you were, actually nodded at the one with with the "celtic legends" T-shirt on, wish I had said hello. Was actually hoping to buy Bigjoe a wee Rioja as I have never met him though I go to all the games there when I am out which is pretty often. It was a bit quieter than usual on Saturday hope its busy on Tuesday night, might meet Bigjoe then.

Hail Hail

Tooheys_New

The day you come on and tell us you're “just in fae the jiggin” we'll know the development has run its full course.

jinkysboy, still agreeing with you. I am Scots-Lithuanian and if I have any Irish blood in me then it is quite diluted. However, because of Celtic I have always had an interest in all things Irish, including the 'troubles'. I HAVE tried to see it from their side but always with the same conclusion. I would find it hard to stand up for a monarch, even a wee wan.

U2
Anyone come up with a better formation than my 5-5-5 for tomorrow night? I will personally be playing a flat back 10 behind the couch, coiled like a spring in the hope of a Naka free kick from 100 yards out.

Sounds like a cunning plan to me.

Auldheid,

As cunning as a fox who's just been appointed Professor of Cunning at Oxford university?

I would hope Naka gets a chance a little closer to goal. But the Van Der Saar should know what's coming by now!

Patsean

I wish we'd got to talk to you. McGrain was the one with the 'Tully, Auld and Hay’ T-shirt. I was dressed like I was just in fae the jiggin, but had actually been working.

Hope you all have a great night tomorrow. That Estrella de Levante is a nice drop.

Don't know if McGrain has plans to travel up from Murcia. I am back home in Chester and may not even make it to St Werburgh's CSC as Mrs First has a prior engagement requiring me to watch weans.

My dear,dear,dear,dear,dear,friend... Tooheys_New.

I know exactly how you feel, pal..

After I read my last offering, twice, on that subject, I finally did catch my drift.

It is one thing to have difficulty in understanding what another has written.. to have the same difficulty in obtaining complete apprehension, of what oneself has written.. is an entire new experience( Should that no be " Comprehension",pal?...ed)( Noo.dinna YOU start!)

Kojo.
yer pal..who likes ye already,

Fellow CQNers,am i alone in thinking that Bobby Russell has too much time on his hands?,surely his latest offering at 3.08,confirms my suspicions.As for the song debate,i do not apologise for singing pro IRA songs,just my choice not to sing them at Celtic Park,i feel it is dangerous to talk of banning good Celtic men and women simply for exercising their god given rights,over and out.

Evening.

'Senkie, review, Man Yoo preview and a body count as large as Harald Shipmans....all here

The Wickerman, The Red Nosed Man And One Over Arrogance.

Forza

bbc tea time news on the eve of the big game

"what will police do differently in manchester this time?"

Paul67 and fellow CQN Bloggers,

I see Hutchinson is in the squad. Don't be spurised if you see another GS suprise tomorrow night.

Has DBBIA ran away with Carla Bruni and her old man's money?

"THE French government has launched a probe into withdrawals by thieves from President Nicolas Sarkozy's personal bank account, said a senior official today."

Sir Paul

Good Noos, dae ah Bring..

Remembah..back in the mists o time.. Fargo..mentioned a young player of Monumental Ability?

Ye dinna?

Well,he did.. an that young fellow me lad.. who was all of Twelve Years old or mebbbe even less,at the time, was a stand- out ? a young Tyro in the same mold of A certain young Irish Prodigy?

Howevvahhhhhh.......

This youngster, was not only noted for being a fine prospect,but was also a very enthusiastic winner..as..
Whenever, he scored a goal..after beating the whole of the opposition at least twice, in rotation.. used to... Complete a complete Somersault.. or as the say in downtown ..ToonHeid.. " His WULKIES!", in Celebration, after putting the ba, in the netting.

Wella....

I see that this young man, has now surfaced...

He was in last night's youth eleven.. who enjoyed a 1-0 victory agin the Inverneesian Youfs.

Islam Feruz, made an appearance , albeit a brief one..in coming on, for the last Five Minutes..

Howevahhhhhhh..

Hold on tae yer hat,pal..

This youngster is a Winnah!

And ye kin Take dat tae yer local Savings and Loan,if it is still there...check that... How aboot yer local Pawn,then?

Kojo.

Dublinbhoy @ 5:54

Then we are agreed on several points

1. We do agree that we wouldn't sing the songs at Celtic Park

2.We both agree that Irish reunification will come about although we don't know exactly when. That's what my salutation to you @ 3:21
referred to "Beidh ar la an" This is the true translation of "Our day will come " literally "our day will be there" which is a more accurate translation of that aspiration. And not "Tiocfaidh ar la" which is more of a hybrid as well as being gramatically inaccurate.

I'm also aware of the attempts down south to potray the war of Independence as a "terrorist" and aware thankfully that it has been rejected. I'm surprised that you can lump me with that issue as there is nothing in my posts to indicate that. My issue is singing the songs at Celtic Park - or rather not singing them.

Canalamar @ 5.01

"if they are all IRA songs which are in turn pro war/terrorist then there is nothing to argue about, I cannot honestly find anything I want to say, you have made up your mind and anything further will continue to be worthless."

If what are all IRA songs? The only song which I hear being sung and which I feel shouldn't is TBOTOB. Thats the only song I have mentioned.Plus the add on's of course.However if any songs refer to the IRA I would add them to the list.

You don't make a convincing argument by making things up.

Granada News (local ITV news)tonight

Manchester police have warned Celtic fans without tickets not to travel after the millions of pound worth of damage caused by the ibORCS hordes.........my and I were listening to this bull and raging....Its a standard statement for the home town team's police force to say don't travel if you don't have a ticket FFS.

However the nice senior policeman gave out all the reasons why he expected the visit to be trouble free emphasising at the end that it WAS A DIFFERENT FOOTBALL CLUB, made me feel a wee bit better but we are definately lumped in the the ibORCS hordes.

Chieftains documentary on BBC2 just now.

vmhan

vman

not up here in scotland it aint

scily isles on bbc2 scotland :0)

lurgan53@15:23 PM
you said to bublinbhoy
You are correct in what you say. Irish ex pats - like Scottish ex pats no matter where in the world will gather together to preserve their identities and links with home. That is the way it should be. However they do not gather together to sing IRA songs. The way Irish people preserve links with home is in maintaining and developing Irish culture. In Scotland, England Australia, USA no matter where the Irish gather they do so to participate in Irish music, Irish dance and Gaelic games. Look at the number of Scottish / Irish families whose children learn and compete in Irish Dancing. The same can be said of Irish Americans and Australian Irish. In both those continents you will find Irish societies promoting Irish culture - games, music, literature. In Ireland, America and Australia you will find Irish coming together in competition - Scor Seachta - Dance, music and quiz and games. That is how a culture is preserved.

To me you've lumped all songs which mention the IRA together, and I strongly disagree this is not part of irish culture, a foreign force surpassed only by the vikings for time of occupation were removed, probably a greater victory than Brian Boru, and its no part of the culture.
sober up.

as for the boys of the old brigade, a lament about a war as righteous as the defeat of the nazi's and your telling me its no a folk song, the easter uprising is no sung as irish culture, yer havin a laugh, surely ?

Patsean……………………………..

I never made in to Paddys Point on Saturday

A mixture of kids playing football…………..

Relatives over and My birthday………………….

Made the hole weekend a bit mental…………………..

I am…………at this point in time……………………………

Packing me bag as I heading back to darkest Africa The morra.

But I am sure we will enjoy a wee Rioja…………….

And watch the Tic……………………….in the future.

BigJoePacking hisBAG ; - ((((((((((((

Blantyretim...................................................

I never realised it was only on in engerland, maybe the scottish inclusive to all society aided by the impartial media decided that the brethren have heard enough o the tunes on live TV at the weekend?..............

vmhan

One of the funniest points made yesterday was, "Did we dream Doumbe?"

On the latest Barca Bhoys linked with Celtic (What a sales rep that Henrik is btw), I haven't seen Suarez, anybody know enough to form an opinion. As for Silvinho, Is he a left back? He most certainly is and at a reported 34 could do a decent job for us on an initial 18 month deal possibly with a further year if mutually agreeable. This boy has played at the top with the best and never looks out of place. Personally I am looking forward to an ongoing link up with Barca.

Sorry for the late reply here...work is interfering with my 'net time :)

jinksyboy

Thanks for your kind words, my friend. I do try to say it as I feel it, sometimes they do not come across as I intend them to. I am passionate about a lot of things but few more so than Celtic and Ireland. Nothing riles me more than when I see either of these misrepresented...as, in both cases it is to denigrate and attack them.

I do have principles that I really try to live by, though probably not as much as I could and should. At least it gives me room for improvement :)

Auldheid

There is absolutely no reason to apologise, I have a thick skin :) It is easy to get entrenched in our own views and loose perspective of what originally was a broad discussion. Lurgan53 quiet rightly pulled me up on my barb when I used the word 'bleating' earlier.
A forum like this differs from, say, meeting some lads in a pub. Every word used in a post is scrutinised for offence and this is them main problem I have on here. Too many people are looking to be offended where in "real life" they wouldn't be so 'precious'. Anyway, I am rambling here...I would agree that we are more than likely very close in our thoughts and opinions on all things Celtic than it would appear.

Hail Hail

Smith and Murray "decry" sectarianism, but nowhere do they say it's wrong because it breaks the laws of human decency.
They decry it because it might, almost certainly will, affect their bottom line.
And his protestation that there are no sectarian folk working at Ibrox must mean that the horrible little kitman who refused to put out Johnstone's gear, has left.

Nobody said, Boruc's name is one of the top 55 players of FIFPro ? Is this Celtic blog? List of the goalkeepers: Artur Boruc, Gianluigi Buffon, Iker Casillas, Petr Cech, Edwin van der Sar.

dennis 47,
they keep bleating on about sectarianism, this is to distract from the purely racist charges before them. Do you think they should make the same claim about racism ?
I do.
hail hail

Dublinbhoy

just saw your last post directed at me

can i clarify

our house ..referred to Scotland and was a reply directly to your post ...how could you refer to anything other than

please look at my posts ...i continually referred to making progress with the Scottish bigotry problem

as for the remainder...your an intelligent man ...my statement is simple

we have a Scottish problem which i feel may be assisted if the Celtic support refrain from singing unnecessary songs , thereby removing the greatest excuse used by the media et al ie " they are both as bad as each other"

thereby exposing who the real bigots are

A support of Celtic is all you have ...i and thousands like me have to live here

Canamalar,

I've heard more than a few Irish rebel tunes in Irish clubs in Basingstoke and Reading, I see it as part of the Irish culture preserving their history through song. In my time in England I've nevr know of a Scottish club (or pub), although there is a bit more togethereness amongst the Scots abroad.

The strangest thing I seen down here was a married couple who were well known Scottish musicians (and also re arrangers supporters) playing a St Patricks day gig in the Basingstoke Irish, they played 2 years in a row as I recall, they went down very well.

The song debate isn't going anywhere, it won't reach any finality or conclusion, I predict it will be gone shortly and return at the next live away game in Scotland, debate is good and educational.

just my tuppence worthcsc

vmhan

anybody think we might see donati tomorrow night :oD

yeah. on the bench

Kojo, aye, the agent will pick up the blame, but I remember some years ago reading about a fox getting a lift across a river and doing what a fox has to do.

It seems that loan sellers are to blame for people taking loans they cannot afford; at least the agent gets paid to take all the blame.

Of course I remember you talking about young Feruz, glad to hear he is edging closer.

WGS, Hutch is one of the few options we have left.

Lurgan53

The reason I said you seem to be in the "re-writing of Irish history" camp (paraphrasing myself here) was because you stated the BOTOB was an IRA song...the implications being that it was glorifying so-called terrorists. That is something I would totally refute.

There is a song, not sung at CP I must say, but is lumped into that same category of "IRA song" is The Men Behind The Wire. This is a wonderful song of defiance of a policy, Internment, so disgusting it can only be likened to Nazi Germanys concentration camps. Just as horrible was the worlds washing of its hands of the whole affair. I would be willing to bet that this song would be banned by Celtic FC though even with no mention of the PIRA.

Hail Hail

canamalar

r u getting the beers in early before the rest of the bhoys arrive?

are you still in manchester and did you get a brief

With regard to WS comments on sectarianism and the strides taken by his club surely, and I do not believe I have missed this statement in their ongoing PR barrage, the 1st stride at this point would be for a high ranking official from their club to decry the "bile" that is TFS sung by the "vast majority" of their support home & away. Until they recognise and officially condemn this "bile" sung, not by faceless supporters hiding behind pseudonyms, but by "bears" sitting in easily identifiable seats within the bigotdome. The police do not need to wade in, merely to watch cctv. Then they may start to be taken seriously.

notholdingmybreathcsc...........

Sinnead O'Connor singing Foggy Dew on the chieftains programme.....pure class.

If its on the telly in engerland can we safely assume that the foggy dew is allright to sing in Scotland (at the game)?......

na... I think BBC Scotland had a look and decided (big brother esque) that it is not desirable content.

vmhan

Big John Hartson playing a blinder on Real Radio tonight. What price an honest pundit?

Jinksybhoy,
I read recently a remark by Graeme Spiers about Murray. It went something like this. "He (Murray) has a lot to say about Celtic and none of it complimentary"
Purely business?

Sir Paul

You dinna need tae reply tae this..as I dinna waant tae Yahtzee, awe o' yer precious time.

Young Islam is Now only THIRTEEN years old!

And he jist made his Celtic, Debut.. ah know it is only the Yoofs..but, it diz gie ye an idea o' how this young lad had developed at a cracking pace.

I was told when he was TEN years old, he had the Physique of a Teen-Ager. A real Deep Pocket Atlas.

So that gives ye the idea,that he must probabley look quite mature for his present age... Thirteen going on Twenty.

These little snippets I send... are designed to interrupt the current ennui.

I hope they do,do, just that.

Manchester 0 Celtic 1

Kojo.

Paul Hartley will score tomorrow night. That was what Gordon Strachan text me in my dream last night.

He stopped short of telling me the full time score, however.

Canamalar,
You're right.
I'm so used to reading this stuff that I find myself getting indoctrinated. It does seep in if you don't watch out.
Thanks.

Optimistic

You need to put it on at the bookies, otherwise if he scores ye'll be a sorry (and happy) hoopster.

vmhan

http://www.norwich.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=128863

Nice words re Big John Kennedy. Makes you wonder what a star he would be if he hadn't suffered so many injuries. If ever a player deserved a turn of luck. When you see some of the wasters who happily turn their back on their country be it for the odd game or the odd manager it turns the stomach.
What price the big fella at the heart of our defence tomorrow if he had progressed naturally?

Once A Bhoy; 7.50pm
Can you expand on some of the subjects covered by BBJ please.
I never listen to the cameron muppet so I've no idea what went on.
Cheers

I had just returned from Spain and bought The Evening Times for a read on the train. I thought Smith`s comments were quite critical of the bigots in Rangers` support. Obviously not critical enough for some on here but surely we should support moves in the right direction?
As regards Celtic`s Irish connection. No probs with that but when I go to Celtic Park I find it very difficult to see any Scottish connection . My view is that it is that (ie the overwhelming predominance of Irish music,tricolours etc) which has led to the Famine Chant ( as opposed to the bile contained in the Famine Song)being belted out so frequently.I do not recall any other Rangers` manager criticizing any aspect of their support. Give Smith credit where it is due and it is due here.

on newsnow

City manager Glenn Roeder has described on-loan defender John Kennedy as the best centre half he has ever worked with.

Kennedy returned from ankle injury against Bristol City at the weekend, and Roeder revealed to canaries.co.uk that the Celtic man played through the pain barrier to complete the game:

'Let me tell you this about John Kennedy,' said Roeder 'He's a warrior - he's been so unlucky in his life with injuries. I would go as far as saying he's the best centre half I have ever worked with. They don't make too many men like him now, I just hope this latest injury doesn't keep him out too long, if you saw the state of his ankle after the game I don't know how he's carried on and played as well as he has done.'

Having got to know Kennedy in recent months, Roeder also believes he has a bright future ahead of him:

'Now I've worked with him I can fully understand why just before his horrific knee injury, A.C. Milan were about to bid for him. He's still young and if he can get over these injuries and stay fit for the next year or so, he could be a big player at Celtic and he wouldn't look out of place in the best leagues in the world, I think he's that good.'

Can we have oor defender back for christmas please, we'll need him for our treble charge (and 4 in a row).

vmhan

Once A Bhoy,

I honestly believe that had Ganea not made that tackle, big John Kennedy would be captaining us tomorrow night in Manchester.

Dennis 47

Unlike WGs tale (which I love) I live in the real world.

Murrays god is finance - I dont know him so cant tell you any stories to confirm my opinion - only that I know a lot of people who worship his god. He hasnt got time for bigotry unless its a moneyspinner or in the current climate revoking it would damage his finances. I believe that should that situation reverse and his empire be threatened by its presence then he will denounce it.

I dont read FF - but anyone who does will tell you that on that site they think he does not back them. Maybe Ed can confirm this.

Also regards Speirs statement - I and most on here have a lot to say about Rankers and none of it complimentary. Does that make us bigots? Most company directors I have worked for have nothing complimentary to say about their competitors either. Thats just business and PR.

The BhoyWithTheWaferThinEyes

He was being asked for memories of Celtic and other well known incidents.
Never shied away or tried to excuse the Berkovic incident. One of his biggest regrets.
Told of the need to fear/respect the manager and his trepidation whenever he was passing MoN at Celtic Park.
Referred to KoK as a "freak" who provide magic on a weekly basis. Reminisced about his favourite goal for the tic, no prizes for guessing, and was open and honest to all callers. Hopefully he will be back on in the near future, it is nice to balance the anti Celtic rhetoric of the usual puppets.
I wish I had heard the whole show myself, it would be interesting to hear his take on current issues if he was asked.

vman,

If I put that on at the bookies it would never happen. It'd be jinxed. I'd be more happy not betting on it and watching it come true (if it meant something, that is, and it wasnt' a consolation goal).

Gordon J @8:11

Aye, I believe you are spot on their. You never know.....one day.

Vman,
I'm just a wee bit frustrated that Celtic supporters would consider objecting to such an important part of the heritage/culture, the club claims to represent.

I've said here before I consider myself an internationalist and dont give a monkeys for borders. But some of the songs are beautiful, tbotob being one I am particularly fond of, I can hear a welsh choir sing it as I font :oD. Dont let bigots confuse whats offensive too. If they take offence ask them to explain, dont be ignored.
and yer right somebody else will put together another rehashed argument and somebody will agree and somebody else wil disagree and I'll jump back in tooth all clean :oD
passion is magic sometimes comontheceltic.
hail hail

Hotsmokedsalmon 8:08

If the comments from WS had come at any other time I too would have given them full credit. A step in the right direction, maybe. My criticism is that the statement and similar coming from his club are coming due to outside pressure not a true belief in the need to address the problem. It strikes me as being stage managed and worded very carefully so as not to kill the cash cow that is their extremist support. They have had and still have ample opportunity to wholly condemn the actions of their support. I realise that this is tantamount to financial suicide, however, it is the only way I can possibly take them seriously. IMO they are merely preparing the grounds for a defence when they next venture into Europe and the Uefa rules they fear so much.
To say their is no sectarianism within the club.......well.......

Once a Bhoy.

You may well be right that his response is ` ...not a true belief in the need to address the point.` I, however, now believe in the inevitability of gradualism and feel that Smith`s comments, voiced for whatever reasons, are steps towards a gradual decline in the more abhorrent actions/chants/beliefs of their worst `supporters`.

Jinkysboy

I sent you an E mail.

PF ayr,

Thanks for replying...I will most definitely get back to you later but I am just caught up with work.

Hail Hail

vman
are you going to be in the greenock celtic this weekend?

Celtic 1st.

Watch the weans?!?!?!?

You're a part timer and a big poof to boot.

Very saddened to see that Alexander Rae has been sacked by Dundee.

Very harsh treatment, surely, for the man who has raised them from last season's disappointing 2nd place, to the very brink of relegation.

Rae is known as one of the true gentlemen of the game.

What a kick in the head this must be for him.

Boruc
Loovens Caldwell McManus
Heinkle Naylor

McGeadie Heartly Brown Robson

Hutchinson

Here's the deal, our fullbacks are so poor ManU will get balls into the box, so pack the box,easy,eh? Damage limitation with an out ball.You never know. 5-4-1. Go on you Celts!!!!!

Nice to hear great feedback about John Kennedy.

I do not recall the fact that AC Milan were about to bid for him,before his injury.

Someone is at it with the fairytale dust.

blantyretim,
have had about 10 tickets offered and accepted every offer, but still not got a ticket in my hand, so no I dont, but hopeful.
who knows eh ?
hail hail

blindlemonchitlin

Calling someone a P##F is shocking.

You should be ashamed of yourself for being so openly homophobic.

And don't you sing BOTOB.

hoopla on October 20, 2008 8:55 PM

I and many others suspect it was the original kick in the head, shortly after birth, which may well have been the problem with Mr Rae.
Sarcasm may well be the lowest form of wit, but it stills gives me a wee titter. :^))

Very strong comments from Walter Smith today. Easily the firmest that have come from anyone in power at the Huns, and in stark contrast to Bain's ridiculous pandering to FollowFollow.

Still loads of pertinent questions remain unasked, and unanswered. However, a step in the right direction for sure.

theboyfromgodknowswhere @6.11

A very courteous reply but you have side stepped my question re not singing about fighting a country whilst you still live in it.

Since you identify yourself as a supporter of future independence for Scotland but recognise that you are a current citizen of the UK, which pro-Scottish Independence songs are acceptable for you to sing? Given that these are likely to cause offence to people with whom we share these islands.

You know that there are pro-Unionist Scots who find the prospect of Scots Independence threatening or ludicrous or offensive. You know that there are English (and Welsh) Britons who find talk of secession to be traitorous.

Are you prepared to give up singing songs of independence(Scottish) until after you have secured such independence?

Roccobhoy

Got your mail and replied mate

Enjoy the trip to Manc tomorrow and take the luck of the Irish over with you

jamiebaby,

Its a good thought but I'll be on the Blackpool Shammy bus on Sat. and straight back doon the road after the game.

Definately be up before christmas and probably around New Year time to be with Jockspice's old man.

take care amigo

c'mom the Celts.........vmhan

This is a bit of a random Celtic appearance, in this months Official Nintendo Magazine there is a picture of Suda 51, producer of No More Heroes, holding up a Celtic top with Suda 51 on the back. That must be the Naka influence!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suda_51

Wigan are hoping to secure the services of the Premier League's top scorer, Amr Zaki, on a permanent basis but will have to pay about £6m to Egyptian club Zamalek for the hotshot, who is on a season-long loan deal at the JJB Stadium. (Daily Mirror)

I got this off the BBC rumours page. If it is true re price and from what I have seen he looks a snip at that price. I had never heard of him before but will not be surprised if a bigger EPL club tries to hijack the deal. He looks as though he can play the loan striker role, is strong and great eye for goal. I've watched Wigan a few times this season and they seem to have unearthed a few good prospects. Shows the value of a good scouting set up.

Gary Calwell to play in his Scotland v France position, protecting the central defence. Lee Naylor mustn't be allowed near the team, his continual giving the ball away will cost us, and his positional sense is non existant. McGeady to start on the right, try to expose O'Shea, the closest thing they have to a weak link in defence. Brown & Robson in central mid to get in their faces, keep Naka for the 2nd half when it calms down a bit and more space opens up.

Boruc
Hinkel Loovens McManus O'Dea
Caldwell
McGeady Brown Robson Maloney
McDonald

Subs. Brown, O'Dea, Wilson, Donati, Hartley, Sheridan, Hutchinson,

Gary67

Some good idea there but you seem to have O'Dea on the pitch and the bench, and no sign of Naka. A mistake, I'm sure.

dublinbhoy

no need for a reply

your view is different from mine ...probably more to do with residence than anything else
read my discussion with Kano ...you will see my personal thoughts

however i see advantage to be gained here

Oops....Naka on the bench, O'Dea on the pitch

I posted this in the wee small hours of last night so most of you won't have read it.

Don;t want to add much to the songs debate as it;s a vicious circle and there will never be consensus but PF Ayr I agree with your view wholeheartedley.

I think we have to be seen to be whiter than white at this moment in time purely to show them up for what they are. I have sung all of these songs at one time or another and agree that they are not legally wrong but.... We have to give our enemies little or no ammunition, rightly or wrongly, and to me if it shows us in a better light to people who have little or no interest or understanding of Irish history then it leaves our rivals up certain creek without a paddle as they can no longer say to anyone ignorant of the past, "see they are just as bad."

The greater good is what we are talking about here. If you feel that you have to sing the songs, sing them outside the grounds where they won't be subject to reporting in our "unbiased" press.

The whole thing at the moment is subject to a real PR job by Mediahouse, the PR company employed by Murray and lapped up readily by a compliant media.

Give them nothing to feed off and this will take a momentous turn for the worst over in Govan as the pressure will build, songs like yesterday's are fodder for people who want drag us into this mess and the board in my opinion were trying to say this without being specific.

I would fight for Dublin Bhoy and Michael Collin's right to sing the songs they see fit but at the moment a wee bit of "uncommon sense" (thanks Kojo) will go a long to seeing us taking the moral high ground whilst Govan burns.

Sorry about the length of the post and no doubt it will be read by few because of the time I have posted it but hopefully it makes my view clear without anyone taking offense or feeling I am against them.

Hail hail.

Once a Bhoy

Zaki is a tremendous player

strong , very fast , energetic

AND

he scores goals

there is no way that anyone other than Wigan (assuming they have a written agreement)will get him for anything less than cica£15m

that after all was the price paid for D Bent

Gary

I get your point re Naylor, however to have O'Dea take his place in the team and on the bench seems a bit harsh!!

Hail Hail
Jamiebhoy

gary 67

i prefer the more safer 6-5-4-1 system.id fancy us to sneak it

Boruc ,Browm
Hinkel ,Wilson, Loovens ,McManus ,O'Dea, Naylor
Caldwell, Donati ,Hartley, Lennon,Strachan
McGeady Brown Robson Maloney
McDonald

i know, i know...Donati!!

smelltheglove

Good thinking, except I think Brown would just get in Boruc's way, put him in defence instead.

I told you,

Boruc
Loovens Caldwell McManus
Heinkle Naylor

McGeadie Heartly Brown Robson

Hutchinson

Here's the deal, our fullbacks are so poor ManU will get balls into the box, so pack the box,easy,eh? Damage limitation with an out ball.You never know. 5-4-1. Go on you Celts!!!!!

Anybody think Walter might be looking for an escape route?

WGS,
Naw, he's just half decent

Give the man u Brown.....the goalie that is

Dublinbhoy

Phil Coulter...singing his top song which he loves so well.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T_E2DaNqZIU

vmhan starting the songs earlycsc

bambi

many thanks

you are one of the few who have correctly understood my position

it is not about right or wrong it is about advantage

PF Ayr,

Spot on mate, that's it in a nutshell and I believe that's how the board see it too.

Re Walter

Lets not kid ourselves here
Today was another part of the campaign that Minty has waged for the last 18 months to clean up their image in the hope of finding a buyer
Chairman Reid's attack last week meant that they had to respond and it fell to WS to carry the message

Interestingly he never actually condemns the song and the hate it exposes - they still approach this from the point of view that it should be stopped because it brings trouble not because it is inherently wrong.

On the songs debate - - like many others I sang these songs in the past but now tend to agree with Mr Stein that such songs have no place at a football match

Tomorrow the worst that can happen is that we lose and lose heavily
However these are the games we put up with all the humdrum SPL tosh for !

We are champions of our country

The players should be desperate to get on the park and compete with the best

That's all we can ask for - that they do not freeze as they did in Barcelona last season - that really was a disgrace

C'mon the hoops !

I think we should play 11……………………………

O'Dea’s………………………………………………….

BigJoewhoTHINKSthatsThewinningFormular

you've gotta feel sorry for Alex ferguson with his 'torment' over his striking options..sort of the same as GS with his left back options.

The poor dear, bless his cotton white socks.

BigJoe.......

If yur gonnae go doon that road, can we naw jist send oot Artur n Naka.....cause in the last game at Celtic Park, they done the business, it would keep the rest o the bhoys fresh fur the next game lol.

vmhan

STAND UP FOR THE CHAMPIONS,

STAND UP FOR THE CHAMPIONS,

STAND UP FOR THE CHAMPIONS.

FORWARD AND UPWARDS,

LONG LIVE THE CHAMPIONS,

Martin.

My dear,dear,dear,dear,dear,dear,dear,dear,friend...Bambi.

Ye of the Poifect Name!

Worry, no mair, pal.. naeboady who is anyboady could evah,evah, be displeased wi' anyone wit' that handle!

By the By, thanks fur the nod.

Anywae...

Ah am most chary to enter inta this stickiest of messes.

My advice on how to approach this subject is to favour ...A Non-Approach..as an Approchement, between the two sets of supporters...is impossible.

I say..

Fuggggggggetttttttttaboooooootit!

Kojo.
yer pal... who likes ye a loat.

My team for tomorrow, assuming all fit:

Boruc
Hinkel, McManus, Caldwell, Naylor
Hartley
Aiden, Brown, Robson, Maloney
Sheridan

Controversial lack of Naka, I know, but we need to be defensive, and that would allow Hartley and Robson to pack the centre when we aren't being pummelled and let Skoosh go forward. Not sure about Sheridan vs Hutch, but I think both could play the lone striker role better than Skippy, and Sheridan showed enough guts on Saturday to let him get the nod.

............for the Celts beat the Arsenal and the Manchester too,

with the Hibs in the final all lo and behold all hampden was covered in Green white and gold.....tooraloo.

vmhan

alex rae sacked at dundee
jambos???? to the wall
all good/bad things come in threes????/
celts beat manure???????
hail hail
onwards to 4inarow

Just looking at the…………………………..

CQN fantasy football

AND…………………………………………

Sir Bobs Bruzers…………………………..

are marching UP the table…………….

38th…………………………..

Come on…………………………….

BigJoeTheSpecial1

Canalamar.

Posted a message for you at 7.30 but it didn't show. Just back in.

I believe you live / work in the Manchester area. I visit fairly frequently. Maybe we can share a few pints next time? I'm sure you'll find we're not that far apart.

Ard mor ort.

Och - I've got that pre Dr Jo Venglos derby game feeling - completely unfancied - new guys in untried positions - I'll say it because I refuse to sit down and watch this game thinking the worst - We will win!

Magoo

to you

This just catches the Orange mentality perfectly.

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=UyytRlwFH0E

Ok my team

Boruc
cadis mcmanus caldwell odea

naka brown robson hartley mcgeady

maloney

with skippy comming on late on

All I want is Celts to play in the hoops!

I did toy with putting O'Dea in defence, and putting Caldwell in the Hartley position in my lineup, but Old Trafford is not the place to start experimenting. I'd go with that against Hibs though, try it out before Man Utd come to our place.

Let's face it, we haven't entered a game with so little confidence of victory, as we are about to tomorrow, for quite a while. This may work to our advantage as it may take away the pressure of breaking our away day curse. Let's hope that the players are inspired to play without fear.

ANY LURKERS FROM the sunny vale looking for a ticket tomorrow in the exspensive seats

Vman……………………………….

Its arguably the best team in the world………………..

at the moment…..

So I think……………………

Alix will be crapping it…………………….

Lets give it 110% Celtic……………………….

BigJoewhoPredictsAfamousAwayWIN

viewfae,

would love to see the Bhoys running out in the Hoops tomorrow (so would Richard Keys of Sky Sports as he is always banging on about us wearing away kit when there is no need to, contractual reasons apart!) but no doubt it will be non-hoops once more.

I must admit to having a very real fear that we get tobered tomorrow night. I hope and pray that I am soooo wrong, especially as I managed to get hold of a ticket over the weekend and so don't want to be down there listening to the mancs revel!

I really can't make my mind up as to which formation/players I would prefer to see tomorrow but no doubt WGS will play someone that will surprise most as he has been known to do esp. in the CL.

Celtic_First,

I don't know if anyone else answered you but it was not me who posed the James MacMillan question, but I assume it was another CQNer. Also I just realised that you live down in Chester (or surrounds?). I am down there on a fairly regular basis - stay in the Mill Hotel - as I do a lot of business with Shell at their refinery at Stanlow. Might manage to catch a beer or two with you during one of my future visits!

HAIL! HAIL!
Token

sorry about spelling

Seen we're all at it, this is the team I would start:

Boruc
Hinkel, Caldwell, McManus, Naylor
McGeady, Brown, Hartley, Robson, Maloney
MacDonald

Subs: M Brown, Wilson, Loovens, Caddis, Donati, Nakamura, Hutchinson.

It will be a fast paced game and we need to be up for it or Man U will run all over us. Posession will be at a premium: we must keep the ball when we get it.

Still not confident at all, but then there is no pressure on us.

Spot on bhoy sean, we have nothing to fear, so lets get in tae them.

Celtic 1 nil skippy with a scrappy goal.

I totally think were going to DO IT.

Project CLAW under way.

FIAR.

GLASGOW CELTIC CHAMPIONS OH OH OH OH OH

Paul,

got another email re. the CQN 5s today. I'm really looking forward to it, but can you give me an idea as to when the draw will be made so that, in the event that I cannot be online at that time, I shall be able to arrange for at least one of my VerdeBlanco's to be so???

HAIL! HAIL!
Token

PS - On a totally diffrent theme altogether, do you think that there was anyone at all - apart from the cantor - who was able to sing or join in with Kyrie Eleison at 11am Mass yesterday???

Tobi Legend on October 20, 2008 10:33 PM

Government Health Warning should accompany that one. I couldn't watch it all, but from what I did see there must be over 100 blog violations.

LOL...:^)))

The Token Tim on October 20, 2008 10:52 PM

The best cantor I've heard in many a year is the young lady who leads the way in St Gabriels 1230 Sundays on the sooside. Fantastic voice, and controls it so you can join in.(Even total tuneless deadbeats like myself). And for the ML Bhoys JG is very easy to follow in Mossend when the choir is AWOL.......lovely hymns as well.

Touringthechapelscsc.......

hi paul just read this from official site .

celtic continue to act against season ticket cheats
Newsroom Staff
CELTIC are continuing to act against adults attempting to enter the stadium using a concession season ticket.

A stewarding operation at the start of the season to identify these ticket cheats caught 200 people and a number of new cases have been discovered in recent weeks.

This is something that the club treats very seriously and can assure its supporters that the club will continue to treat this matter with great seriousness and that the strongest possible action will be taken against these people who are cheating the club and other supporters.

Ongoing stewarding operations are in place and will be so again at this Saturday’s home game against Hibernian, with the aim to find people who are cheating in the way tickets are being used. Those who are continuing to do so are only taking advantage of their fellow supporters.

A Celtic spokesperson said: “The club won’t tolerate this and we will be unrelenting in our bid to stop this practice. These people are cheating fellow Celtic supporters and the Club.”

The checks will continue to be carried out with the minimum of inconvenience to genuine supporters, who will appreciate why the club is taking such action.

The club would ask any supporter who knows of anyone engaged in this practice to please call the hotline number 0141-551 4495 or email ticketmisuse@celticfc.co.uk

now paul can you answer me this .my brother who is now a senior citizen and has been a follower of the celts for well over 50 years,and a season ticket holder from the new stadium era. cant make the game ,but he passes his ticket to his /my 18 year old nephew to allow him to attend the game. now runs the risk of getting his ticket taken from him and my nephew being refused entry.and a paid seat left empty .is this how i read the situation here, may i ask my fellow celts on here are any of you in the same position with this rule .it is not as if it happens every week .but i,m sure that many thousands of us who own a season ticket.have in the event of us not being able to make the game ,have passed the ticket over for use .

Once a Bhoy,

Since there was all this debating of songs being carried out on here recently I just thought I would pose Paul the question :)

HAIL! HAIL!
Token

The Token Tim on October 20, 2008 11:01 PM

Mibbee we could start a hymns debate.....though it might not be all inclusive.
Many of the best and most poignant "songs" I have heard would fall in to this category and knowing the soosiders would upset them even more than "political" numbers. Now that would show them for what they are.

Holygoaliecsc.........

Jimtim,

How you doing my friend?
My brother is in a similar position in that he has a jumior ticket for his son, but he wont take him to the rangers games yet - he is 6 and they sit in the section right next to that lot.

He contacted Celtic park before the last derby game and was able to change it to an adult ticket for a charge of £15 that allowed one of my other brothers to go instead. Im sure he was told he could do this up to 4 times per season, but I cannot say for sure.

I would suggest that your brother contacts the ticket office prior to the game on Sat to arrange the ticket transfer for the game.

Cheers mate
HAIL! HAIL!
Token

PS - You coming to the 5s before the game on Sat???

Actually, that Judas Lundy brought out an album a few years ago and it got played in the 'Mitre' before it was closed down. Funniest album I ever heard. Very hard to find these days..........but I know a man who can.

TTT

What was the e-mail about for the 5s? I don't mean to pry, it's just that my e-mail has been playing up a bit and haven't received any today. I don't want to miss out on anything I might need to do before then.

I'm sorry for asking if it was only a personal e-mail mate. Still need to get a pair of boots so I don't need to use my clatty old training boots!

Hope to see you Saturday!

jimtim

I see your point, that sort of thing should be allowed, doesn't make sense for seats to go to waste because the holder can't make the game. I believe the idea is to catch people who are regularly using a concession ticket to get into the ground cheap, and thus swindling the club out of money. However, I don't know how they would determine between people such as your nephew who may use your brother's ticket once in a while and people who have bought a concession ticket to sneak in every week. They'll need to introduce some sort of complicated system to get round that one.

On the subject of a team tomorrow night, I can't see WGS throwing in players such as Caddis, Sheridan or Hutchinson from the start, they don't have enough experience. They're more likely to be on the bench, with Skippy up front being fed by Naka, McGeady and Maloney. I could see any one of them coming on later in the match though.
Like a lot of you, I've got a feeling about tomorrow.

Hail Hail and that

Not had a chance to read the previous posts except a quick skip through.

Lots of frayed nerves out there. Perhaps thinking this way will help you to relax:

ICT - Man U - Hibs - Hearts - Man U - Motherwell

Which are the 2 least important games? That's what will help our little stars tomorrow. 4 in a row!

Still raining in Manchester - just right for the low centre of gravity bhoys.

Believe!

Once A Bhoy,

I'll start the ball rolling with Faith Of Our Fathers!
The idea of which can almost be applied to our love of Celtic when handed down from Father to son......although ironically it certainly does not apply to me!!

HAIL! HAIL!
Token

jimtim

I'm in the same position sometimes with my bhoys. Any time they can't go from now on the seats must lie empty. Usually they would make it every week but sometimes things might crop up, say they might be unwell or something. Maybe something should be in place where you can upgrade your ticket for one-off games?

I happened to be lurking near my turnstiles while mrs bananas was at the Ladies room and saw someone getting caught. There are now lights above each turnstile on the other end which the stewards stand and look at, orange for concession, green for full price. If the orange light comes on and the guy looks as though he shouldn't be concession they'll get you every time. The steward in particular that day looked like he was dying for someone to do it, maybe I got the wrong impression.

I have to say I agree that Celtic should look to clamp down on the guys doing it but it seems a bit much to set up a hotline to grass up someone you know who is doing it. I don't know if I could bring myself to shop someone.

sorry, didn't see that TTT had said that a system of sorts is in place to upgrade your ticket. It makes sense to have something like that in place.

The Token Tim

That's great news. The Mill Hotel is a stone's throw from the CSC, which you may already realise, but if not you are not the first Tim not to. I had lived here for a few years before I realised.

So if you're ever down here when there's a game on, let's get it set up.

As for the difficult Kyrie, it couldn't have been from James MacMillan (Galloway Mass), could it? In the diocese of Motherwell? Wonders will never cease.

Hi PAB mate,

It was more a generic one sent out to 12 email addresses - I assume the 12 team "captains" - just outlining a wee bit more info for Saturday.

Info such as the parks have been relaid with 3G astro-turf recently and 1st matches KO at 10am sharp so please be there kitted out and team registered prior to this. If this could be a problem can you contact Des to give him as much notice as possible and he will try to give the team a later KO if possible. Also the living legend who is Danny McGrain will be along to present the trophy and winners medals etc.

I received it just before 4pm today. If you haven't received it by tomorrow morning post on here and I'll try to get it to you before I leave for manchester.
To be honest though there is no real info as regards Kit, teams etc.

HAIL! HAIL!
Token

bftch thank you for your reply my friend.

the token tim . im doing grand , so sorry i cant make the 5s on saturday. my sons getting married. its a kilt for jimtim.first time ever in a kilt. i pick it up tomorrow, my mate who owns the dress hire shop .says it will give me plenty time to get the knack of putting it on. he thought he was joking. if you are going have a super day, and if you see oldtim67 ask him to have an orange juice for me. orange juice , oldtim , aye that will be right eh! take care my friend .

Celtic_First. I guess from Token Tim's response you have been asking questions about who raised the James MacMillan question. Twas I wot done it. Just about all the other issues raised here had come up and I gave it a go. Had nothing prepared and finished by saying it was time to move on which gave the impression, wrongly, I wanted to ditch everything traditional. As one who is old enough to remember Jimmy Shand's greatest hits forming the pre-match music programme I have good reason to think warmly of Glen Daly and later offerings.

Celtic_First,

I had heard that there was a CSC in Chester and that it was in the Mill area, but had never been able to find out exactly where before.

Does the CSC show just Celtic games or most games on SKY/Setanta?
I ask because I generally try to avoid being down South when the Bhoys are on duty but would be happy to meet up for a beer one night whilst another game is on if that was suitable?

I can't always do so however; in fact I ended up watching the Villareal away game in Eastleigh at the Chris Sutton CSC down there a few weeks back.
I meant to post on here thanking Pat and all the Bhoys and Ghirls in the Eastleigh Irish Centre for making me and my mate feel welcome for the game. Good crowd in there. I would recommend it to anyone else whoever finds themselves down in the Southampton/Winchester area and a Bhoys game is on.

HAIL! HAIL!
Token

Theviewfaethewindae is of Conaration Street! I'm away to the game with viewfae's brother in law, a Manu fan. The clown giving me 10/1 the draw, looks like the petrol's paid for, it's a Desmond 2-2, Naka & McManus.

Let the people sing!!!!!!!!!!!!!

TTT

Cheers mate, the thing is I'm our team captain and haven't got it. If you can see the addresses of who it was sent to can you see if one was sent to jjtolan@btinternet.com.

Good to see it's the 3G stuff now, I mind playing 11s on the grass a couple of years ago and walking past the 5s pitches and noticed that they weren't up to much. The 3G stuff for me is better than at least 90% of the grass parks in the West Of Scotland that I've played on, you get a more true run of the ball and you can even do slidies without taking off several layers of flesh!!! (Not that I would ever slide tackle any CQNrs, at least not until the Final!)

Thanks bud!

jimtim,

hope you and all your family have a fantastic day on Saturday. Enjoy the kilt, but try not to get too sweaty!
I'm really looking forward to the 5s but have the feeling that I shall be a tad knackered come 1pm.
OldTim and Orange juice???? Ha ha ha ha!
To be honest as I will have to drive on Sat it will be me on the soft stuff.....lime cordial though :-) but I'm sure OldTim will manage a wee hauf for you.

andycol,

thanks for putting forward the James MacMillan question, saved me doing it. I had intended on waiting till the very end to do so, but you got in there before me. Thought you phrased it very well. with the nice lead in re. the CL theme tune etc.
Doubt if I would have managed it with as much aplomb as you.
If I had known I would have said hello as I assumed it was another CQNer but didn't know who.

Cheers
HAIL! HAIL!
Token

TTT

It's cool mate, just checked my spam folder where it was right at the top. I'm glad I checked it, I usually just dump it without looking.

Panic over!

PAB,

I checked and you were one of the addressees. I hope you don't mind but I have taken the liberty of Fwd it on to you again.
let me know if you get it or not.

Got to agree with you re. the 3G pitches. One of the Bhoys in my team played there a few weeks back and said that the pitches were pretty good.
The Over 35s league I play in now is played only on astro pitches and they are almost all 3G. As you say the ball does run much truer - and faster unfortunately - than great majority of grass pitches I played on.
My trusty Copa's are a bit kicked in now, but as usual they shall be on for saturday.

See you then.
Cheers mate

HAIL! HAIL!
Token

TTT

I got it thanks and e-mailed you back, I appreciate the trouble!

Still trying to convince mrs bananas I need to spend £60 on new boots.....

not going to happen I fear!

See you later and thanks again!

Oh no. I've ended up in sunny (and very warm today) Burgundy.
No sign of any succulent lamb or Jabba the Traynor in full scoff mode.
No CQN'ers, the oh no is . . . . I can't get the game on my French Council Telly. The TV here is showing the Lyon game - damned inconsiderate for us visitors I'd say. I'm near a town called Clamecy, and about a 25 min drive from Auxerre (but you don't want to drive after a few scoops). Any Francoph/ones/iles got un scoobie pour poor pauvre moi?

Mrs miggins,

a few years back I had the same problem in Le Havre. Unfortunately I never got to see our game live, but, small consolation that it is, Canal Plus had a highlights show that showed approx 30 mins of each game played that night.
I had to stay up till about 2 am to see our game, wasn't even worth it as we were pumped by Rosenburg!

I know this hasn't really helped you out any, but hope you have better luck than me.....both in seeing the game and the result!

HAIL! HAIL!
Token

Thanks Token Tim,
I bought a cheapo digibox today and Canal + is on the limited programme menu. So I may have a chance to see some highlights (??) after all. I don't know whether 2 a.m is do-able though - this is a SERIOUS wine region. Nuff said.

No probs mrs miggins.

I have a feeling that you will enjoy votre vin slightly more than the game, but I hope not.
Ideally you will be able to enjoy both equally. What night that would be, your head may be tender on Wed morning in that case but I'm sure it'd be worth it!!

HAIL! HAIL!
Token

TTT,
Mon Dieu. Its twenty to two in the morning. Im off tae ma scratcheur.
Oh rivwar.

OK,

Thats it for me tonight.
Need the beauty sleep and all that for the big game tomorrow.

Good luck to the Bhoys tomorrow, here's hoping they can do us proud once more and to all my fellow Bhoys travelling down, mind and lets show the people of Manchester that we are the Good Ghuys and are well worthy of our Greatest Fans In The World accolades!
Sing Loud and Sing Proud!

HAIL! HAIL!
Token

I have a feeling....

CELTIC are playing tonight!...
3am alarm call on this side of the sphere
Of coarse we will all be heavily affected when we win lose or draw...
I'm heavily affected when we concede a throw-in!

But the love & passion CELTIC brings to our lives is a joy of being!

Enjoy, behold, involve, rejoice...

I am forever grateful that WE ARE CELTIC

HAIL HAIL

tbdJ

Thinking about tonights game, this is a bonus game anything gained from it is a bonus, not expected to win but would love it if we were to get a point.

Boruc
Hinkel, Cauldenbuer, McManus, Naylor
McGeady, Brown, Hartley, Robson, Naka
Maloney

Wio Fwerdinand to get sent off.

Reserves won 4-2 tonight v Hamilton
McClenahan [og], Gaughan, Monti (Left Back) and McGowan.

A cannae sleep wae awe the excitement. Supposed to be getting up at 7 to travel down. Like a kid on xmas eve. Thinkin we can do it.

Like yer team Estadio. Mine's wouldnae be too different. Needs to be plenty movement between Aidenho, Shun and Shauny for it to work, but agree that things urnae set up great fur Skippy. I think Wilson may be prefered at RB.

Mon the Hoops
Jamiebhoy

this might be a tad criptic... but lets defy expectations!

I see a few have mentioned HINKEL in their team selections...

I thought he was out injured?

------------AB-----------
CADDIS CAULD MICK NAYLS
---------HARTLY----------
SHAUN ROBBO BROWN AIDEN
---------SKIPPY----------

NAKA a cert for 2nd half change.
Maybe see HUTCH or SHERRY after an hour

HAIL HAIL

tbdJ

Nope, Hinkel's not injured. Crosas, JVOH and Sammy are (I believe) the only ones.
Most of these teams look like they could do the job, as long as Naka starts or starts the second half at least.
We're gonna do it, Bhoys!

Hail Hail and that

ok so... i guess HINKEL has to start.

no night shift the night before a CL away tie...???

tsk tsk tsk

my iPod then >

CELTIC

IMO our biggest problem tonight will be getting the ball to stick up front ,If we fail to hold the ball upfront we will be under pressure our defence could do without .fergie will be wanting them to do us bigtime ,he would have been fuming after we gubbed them at CP .He will relish the prospect of being 3 or 4 up and putting the kids on ,watch who is on his bench tonight .

this is as relevant as baseball!

but much easier on the eye

bhoy dave .
do we have a good profile over in Japan with naka and mizuno

Fergus

you bet we do!
Naka is Beckham here.
And he is the reason I can watch every game at home.

I just moved out of Tokyo to the coast.
On my first day walking down my road (only just wide enough for a car)
3 kids & their Mom walking in the opposite direction
The kids decked out in 2 home strips & last years away.

I think I scared them slightly with my C'MON THE HOOPS!
But they understood when I followed it with a NAKAMUUURA!

tbdJ

Bhoydave
That's good to hear ,I for one don't think Naka gets the credit he deserves (quite the reverse )for me he is by far the best player we have technically .
He will be a loss when he finally goes home .

fergus

I agree that Naka is our one true class act at the moment.

my main hope is that Koki can at least fill one boot of Naka's
(purely selfish reasons... i think Japan will drop the SPL when Naka takes flight without Koki to focus on)

he was the young bright hope in the J League, but seems not to be up to the tempo & intesity of our game yet.
I know Naka will have him under his wing, so hopefully it's only a matter of time.

One thing is for sure, when Naka does return to the J League I will go pay him a visit and say thank you.

bhoydave
heard some good things about koki ,he was injured for a while so maybe that held his debut back a bit .

.

Fergus....TheBhoyDave....

Fergus you Still up....TBD it Must be Late where you are too....

Australia is Ready....

5:45am KO Here l have a few Bhoys coming over as it's only on ESPN....Can't wait seen Man U v Villareal and Villareal could have nicked it....West Brom were Loosing a few Goals when winning the Championship last Season so l am not reading to much into that result(hoping)....

Hail Hail the 1/4s Here We Come .... ;o0000))))

o1bhoy

o1boy
242 am
that is the beauty of the CELTIC .The world awaits the big kick off .
Might be nice to have a world roll call today .
JAPAN ........READY
AUSTRALIA ....READY
SCOTLAND .....READY
HAIL HAIL

o1
no it's early here 10:46 am

i hate it when i am confident going into a game - most recent example Aalborg!
suits me just fine that we're being given a huns chance in heaven(c)

we wont win if we try to defend
in their faces!
this could be Scott B's moment.

C'MON THE HOOPS!!!

1-2

tbdJ

Bhoydave
A naka freekick ,big edwin with egg on his face for the 3rd time and fergie giving the team the hairdryer treatment ,that will do for me .
hail hail

i think Man U will fear Naka's FK ability... therefore, they will try not to give away free kicks anywhere 30m from goal.

this could result in hesitation...

Aiden, Shaun, Skippy, Scott, Robbo go make yourselves heros!

...and if Naka finds the ball at his feet with a wall in front of him...
i think I might pee

tbdJ

one for getting in the mood

30 quid - WALK ON

.

Fergus....TBD....

I Must Have a Few Mates Who Lurk on Here....Just Had another 2 Texts to Come Over....;o000))))

Better Warn the Sheila's Downstairs the Last time NAKA Scored against the Huns They Thought we had a EARTHQUAKE....

o1partyhasstartedBhoy

o1

I know what you mean!

In my last place we had the neighbours round complaing the next day about the 'fighting & screaming' during the night :o(

This new place is all traditional tatamae floors (thin bamboo straw) & paper walls (spit through)... with a 10month old sleeping next door to the TV...

I try to keep a lid on it, but I cant help myself!!!

He'll understand when he's older :o)

.

TBD....

I Took the Bull by the Horns and Took them(Shelia's) To a Huns Game Last Season(the wrong one) one of them Now Goes Out With a Guy from Hamilton....;o))))

So They are Cool....i'll Just Warn them Just in Case YOU Never Know....

o1bhoy

o1 tbdj
sorry for the late replies I have a wedding coming up and am trying to get a speech together ,better get to my kip or I will sleep in for the game .
hail hail .

.

thebhoydave JAPAN....

Need to Head Out Now i'm on 3yr Old Duties and She Want's to go to Beach....

Hail Hail 1/4s Final this Time....;o))))

o1bhoy

Fergus

good luck with the speech... i've had to do it but once... it's all good after you get going!

o1

I'm on 10month old duties... & I want to go to the beach!

HAIL HAIL

tbdJ

Noticed the anagrams being aired recently...

Dont you just love these opportunities...
Especially when expectations are low...

I believe that two of our players will shine..

A Dynamic Edge
&
Holy Anus.... Amen

Keep The Faith Bhoys..

But ...

Roll On The Deodrant....

gotta love the second last para from Gordon >

Celtic boss Gordon Strachan says they could be facing Manchester United's greatest ever team in tonight's Champions League clash.

"We are playing the best team in Europe and some of the best players in the world," said Strachan. "Is it a better team than Busby's? Did they win 10 championships?

"It is not for me to decide if this is the best Manchester United side of all time. That is for those who watch them more often.

"But Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic could look great no matter who we had up front. Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo are terrific - I have no new words to describe them. Their performances speak for themselves.

"But, believe me, it could be a lot worse. We are here now to face United and we are in the Champions League. We could have finished second in the title race and missed out on all this. Let's have a go at it.

"We will try to win that game - that is for sure. Whether we have the full set of weapons we had for Villarreal is another matter, with some big players injured."

.

Shaun Maloney refuses to rule out another slice of "Magic"....

Graham Spiers

The last time Shaun Maloney played at Old Trafford his team were beaten 4-0 and his manager held the player to be among those to blame for the defeat. That game, in March this year with Aston Villa, proved one of the last straws in the tense relationship between Maloney and Martin O’Neill and resulted in the player returning to Celtic Park in the summer.

Maloney returns to the scene at Old Trafford tonight and, by his admission yesterday, it might be an even taller order. A depleted Celtic side face Manchester United for a match in which Gordon Strachan’s recent observation about Scotland being “a country of wee men” will seem quite apt. Of the wee men available to Celtic this evening, Maloney is one whose feet will have to do quite a bit of talking.

Strachan and his players face some head-scratching over how to go about their business in the absence of the injured Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink, Georgios Samaras and even Chris Killen – three strikers who, when all else fails, can at least throw their bodies about in pursuit of havoc. Without them Strachan must hope that his ball-players, Maloney and Aiden McGeady among them, can somehow dictate the play sufficiently for Celtic to hurt Sir Alex Ferguson’s side.

“It’s a blow not having guys like Vennegoor of Hesselink for their physical presence,” Maloney said. “We’ll obviously miss that focal point in terms of height. It’s unfortunate, so it has to be about tactics tomorrow. United, having strengthened this summer, are probably even better than when they won the Champions League last year. They could go all the way again – I’ll be surprised if they don’t.

“But that’s football. We have to stop them coming forward and have to try to get forward ourselves. It’s going to be a big task but I don’t see the point in writing it off before the game’s even started and we’ll go into it quite positively. But it will be vital to keep the ball.”

It was for such occasions that Maloney found himself quietly pining during his troubled 18-month sojourn in England with Villa. The 25-year-old recently spoke of the wretched experience, having signed for O’Neill in January 2007, of knowing almost upon his arrival at the club that he had made a mistake in leaving Celtic. It was a painful episode that he had to endure before finally winning a way back to Glasgow three months ago.

Maloney, nonetheless, does not view tonight as a game in which he has to prove himself to a watching English audience. “The Champions League is a big part of Celtic and a big lure for players to come to the club, but I don’t think these games are a justification for me coming back,” he said. “I know I’ve justified it already and I don’t think these games will change that.

“It doesn’t enter my head that I’ve got anything to prove to anyone. Everybody’s got their own opinion on these things. It doesn’t make much difference if people’s opinion of me down here is any different to how it is in Scotland. In my mind I know I’ve made the right decision.

“Don’t get me wrong, the Premier League is a wonderful league with some massive clubs, but I don’t think these nights are the main thing as far as justifying my decision is concerned. It was a personal choice – in my head and my heart it was about where I was happiest playing. I’m lucky that the manager and the owner at Celtic backed me in coming back. I guess I’m quite fortunate there.”

Can Maloney and his diminished team conceivably hold their own tonight? With four games still to play, nothing will be determined about Celtic’s group E fate either way, though another defeat, leaving them with one point from three games, will not look auspicious.

Moreover, from the number of times Maloney used the phrase “fingers crossed” yesterday in his pre-match interviews, it would seem that he believes Celtic have their work cut out.

The last time the two sides met, it took a Shunsuke Nakamura wonder goal from a free kick to give Celtic their 1-0 win in a match in which Strachan’s side had hardly seen the ball. Maloney believes that some similar type of inspired intervention will be required tonight.

“One of our players is going to have to stand up and do something special,” he said. “Hopefully, there will be moments when someone can produce something that will create a goal. There are going to be parts of the game when we’ll be under the cosh but when we’re not, hopefully we can produce something.

“Two years ago Naka’s goal at Parkhead was that bit of brilliance we needed. We all know what he can do, and he did it at Old Trafford as well. I’m not sure how many chances they give you, but if they do, you have to take them. Georgios Samaras had a chance in Villarreal, but their ’keeper saved it. I just think at this level, when you get chances, you need to take them.”

(The Times)

Come On The "WEE" Hoops....

o1bhoy

Off to Mancunia - COME ON THE HOOPS !!!!

WBG

Me too

Hail Hail

Safe journey,lads, and haste ye back.
Eighty years ago the Wembley Wizards played England at Wembley(surprisingly enough}
The tallest of the forward line was 5 foot 7.The team was highly unfancied,but won 5-1.
Could this be an omen?
Perhaps not.Jimmy Mc Grory was left out of the team.
Here`s tae us.
I have a wee feeling that we might just......
Whatever happens,`MON THE HOOPS !!!

Porraigeandbananas

was lurking this morning and saw that you needed a new pair of boots, I think jinksbhoy was giving away a brand new pair size 8 for a donation to the charity? (could be wrong as im a wee bit nervous today)

Bad smash on M6 according to clyde1 this morning for any travelling..

jinkysbhoy...sorry..

Morning all, que pasa amigos?

Very strong winds, rain and hail this morning, running/ jogging was a waste of time. I hope this weather keeps up and favours us, as the likes of Tevez and Ronaldo won’t fancy it.

Theatre of dreams, it could be their nightmare we have previous with them and could have taken something from the last game in Manchester so ......c’mon the hoops this time.....we can do it.

Vmhan aw

new article posted.

paul can't seem to get comments on new article

.

European Glory or 4 in a Row....????

Celtic playing in the UEFA Cup Final was the kind of exposure that money can't buy, with an estimated television audience of five hundred million watching all round the globe. The awesome scenes they witnessed showed the world that Celtic is much more than a football club. The Timmites gathered in the kind of numbers never witnessed before for a club football match in Europe. It wasn't just the weight of numbers either. They came from all over world, from all the far flung outposts of the Celtic diaspora as well as from the unlikeliest of places. The resultant spectacle not only added to the occasion but must have made the TV and football movers and shakers stir themselves to take a bit of notice of the Celtic phenomenon. By way of contrast, the Huns' "historic" league victory passed largely unnoticed in European football circles bar the odd paragraph here or there in the round-up pages....

Have a Go Tonight Celtic....But Hibs is More Important....

o1bhoy

To all the troops in hoops going to the game tonight ENJOY,regardless of the result you will do us proud.KEEP THE FAITH

Lhondondave, Theres a pub on Kilburn high rd its called the Kingdom it home to www.sriritof67csc.co.uk its a great pub for games like tonites
HAIL HAIL
C'MON THE HOOPS
C'MON THE HOOPS
C'MON THE HOOPS