You and I know how fans of other Scottish clubs feel about their performances in Europe; at best, it is a source of national frustration. Everyone else is cleared out of Europe in the qualifiers by teams who themselves seldom reach the Europa League proper.
All of this matches the Scotland national team, who only this year started to look competitive. A malaise has crept in, everyone comes to expect failure and copes without undue distress (for the most part).
In this respect, we have nothing to lecture Belgian football on. The Belgian national team is one of their nation’s best ever, a decent outside shout for next year’s World Cup. But domestically, Belgian football has rapidly fallen apart.
Anderlecht, like Celtic, are their country’s last remaining competitor in European football. Brugge were bumped from the Champions League qualifiers by Basaksehir, then the Europa’s by AEK Athens. Oostende lost to Marseille, no particular surprise there, but Gent exited the Europa qualifiers to Altach, currently seventh in the Austrian table after nine games.
The pain of humiliation in European club football is being felt acutely right now in Belgium, while their most successful club, Anderlecht, acts as the flag bearer.
Anderlecht’s fall from grace has been steep. On the way to winning the domestic title, they produced one of the greatest wins in their European history last season, 1-6 away to German club FSV Mainz on the way to a 3-2 aggregate quarter-final defeat to eventual Europa League winners Manchester United.
Now they sit seventh in the table, nine points adrift from Brugge, having sold their top talent from last season, and sacked their manager this month. This is a dysfunctional team in a newly-dysfunctional league. They fear Celtic.
So far, so encouraging, but you and I have seen this movie before. Larsson, Sutton and Hartson had Anderlecht on the canvass in 2003. Dominating possession in Brussels with the home team down to 10 men, but we still contrived to lose the game to a team we would sweep aside with ease at Celtic Park.
There are reasons to be hopeful. Our previous two away games in the group stage, (Manchester City and Borussia Monchengladbach), produced highly credible draws, we looked like a team who knew how to survive in this environment, but you and I would be delighted with a draw tomorrow night.
Notwithstanding the fact that a draw would be a satisfactory result, this is a game we should look to win. Anderlecht’s deficiencies are many and evident. They cannot buy a performance right now. If Brendan and his players secure three points, they will take a huge step towards European maturity. Don’t bet against them.
Celtic FC Foundation, Great Scottish Run
A number of us will be treading the streets of Glasgow in Celtic FC Foundation regalia on Sunday with the Great Scottish Run. I am doing the 10k (either because I fancied the shorter distance, or because I forgot to register for the Half in time…. hopeless).
Being able to do things for the Foundation is a significant part of my Celtic relationship. It is appropriate to follow in the footsteps of those who 130 years ago decided to form a football club to help those in need.
What the Foundation does will never grab the headlines of what the football team does, but it is difficult to imagine a football result having as profound an impact on people’s lives as the work of the Foundation, when it feeds the hungry, or provides respect to the downtrodden.
If you are able to support the work, please do so at this MyDonate page.
Thank you.
——–
The CQN Podcast: A Celtic State of Mind (EP14) Champions League Special
A Celtic State of Mind offers an insight into the culture of Celtic Football Club, the city of Glasgow, and fans of the reigning invincible Scottish champions.
Each episode includes interviews with ‘Celtic-minded’ figures from the world of sport, music, film, art, broadcasting, literature or politics.
Ahead of the crucial Champions League match against Anderlecht, ‘A Celtic State of Mind’ goes behind the Champions League curtain for Celtic’s opening match against PSG.
Kevin Graham provides pre and post-match discussion with members of his CSC, as well as in-match analysis in what will be a regular Celtic State of Mind feature.
Enjoy!
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TIMJIM,
I’m just reading back from yesterday.
Many Happy Hoopy Belated Birthday Greetings young fella !
HH
Good morning, friends. Tonight’s the night. Can’t wait.
Whilst I do hope that the focus is all on the Anderlecht game, I wouldn’t want the day shift to miss out on a post from last night. Apologies to those getting tired of this but you can always scroll by…
Oh and anyone who emailed after about 10pm last night – I’ll get back to you early evening.
**** LAST MAN STANDING 9 – AN IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT! ****
We have been completely overwhelmed by the level of support for our forthcoming competition (more on that below!) and so far, we have had 108 (one hundred and eight!) entries. And there are still 3 more sleeps before we kick off!
AS A SMALL THANK YOU WE WILL BE AWARDING 3 ADDITIONAL FREE ENTRIES. The draw will take place on Thursday and we will include everyone who tells us they want to join in before midnight tomorrow night (Thursday).
So please feel free to copy or send this message on to anyone else who you think might be interested, whether family, friends, workmates, etc.
The usual ‘advert’ now follows!
Jobo and CRC
____________________________________________________
****CQN Last Man Standing 9-new competition starts Friday 29th September 2017****
Deadline for entries – 7pm on Friday
We are now welcoming entrants for the return of our Last Man Standing competition which starts this Friday 29th September 2017.
The competition will follow the same format as before and to win the entire prizepot, all you have to be is the Last (wo)man Standing at the end of the competition.
Not played before? Simply, select a uniquely different team from the list of football fixtures provided by us each week, and if you are the last (wo)man standing, then you win the prize.
Remember you can only pick the same team once in any competition, so you need to decide when to play the big guns!
The cost to take part is £10 per entry (you can have more than 1 entry if you wish), and just in case you falter in any weeks 1 to 3, then we even allow you to buy your history back for a further £10.
How easy is that? Surely you must win it!
The prizepot is 50% of all entrance and “history buyback” fees, with the remaining 50% being paid over to good causes.
For LMS9, the remaining 50% will be split equally between “Walk With Shay” and “The Oscar Knox Fund”; two causes very close to our hearts. https://www.facebook.com/OscarKnoxFund/ and
https://www.facebook.com/walkwithshay/
So if you want to take part please send us an email to cqnpredictor@gmail.com saying ” Count me in” and we will send you the first week’s fixtures, with the rules and payment details.
Please also feel free to pass onto family and friends as they more that take part, means a bigger prizepot and more monies raised for good causes
HH
CRC and Jobo
Celtic -2 tonight ;-)
Dance Me to the End of Love
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NGorjBVag0I
Ave Ave
JOBOBALDIE
You and CELTICROLLERCOASTER have a smashing wee fundraiser going. I’m delighted so many have decided to join in.
But you’re gonna have your work cut out every Sunday. So be very grateful for Brendan Rodgers,or it would be EL and Sunday games!!!
TOMMY JOAD on 26TH SEPTEMBER 2017 2:23 PM
A Joyful Lament to a Different Game
……………….
Good post TJ.
I was 11 and a half when The Celts won the Big Cup, and I remember just about everything from that night in Lisbon, watching it in my uncles house in Dennistoun, Glasgow…in black and white of course, as I didn’t see a colour tv until the fantastic World Cup in Mexico in 1970.
Over the years, I have met most of the Lisbon Lions ( not all), and in All honesty EVERYONE of those Famous Bhoys that I have met, has proved to be a gent, although Jinky would prove to be a bit of a rascal especially with the drink in him.
Looking back, as most would tell you, Dennistoun has always been largely a Hun area of Glasgow ( in later years I lived there twice),, but after the 2-1 victory that night, I can vividly remember standing at the bus stop with my Granny and Granda and their son ( RIP Uncle Robert) waiting for a bus back to Easterhouse, and Duke St was awash with the Green and White, with folk running up and down the street with Celtic scarfs etc, and others ” hinging oot their windaes” waving Celtic scarfs and flags…..Magical.
HH
MACJAY1 FOR NEIL LENNON on 27TH SEPTEMBER 2017 4:57 AM
Was this not what Big Jimmy was recommending ?
:-)
http://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/15559308.Scot_Gemmill_disappointed_as_Celtic_pull_Tony_Ralston_from
……………………………..
If only this was just the start of a MASS CELTIC EXODUS from the SFA’s X1 ?
Now…see if I was Peter Lawwell ?…..but sadly I ain’t.
HH
Christy Moore – If They Come In the Morning
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uTgD-QveQrU
Ave Ave
Tonight will be another match that I’ll not see. Bliddy early nightshift,ko 730.
I hope my advice to LYMMBHOY on where to watch it comes up trumps. I went in yesterday to ask,and they said it would be.
I hope there are enough highlights posted overnight for me to get a swatch tomorrow morning-meantime,my fingers toes and eyes are crossed!
Word of The Day (Pedro the joker? Not any more…..)
jocose /dʒəˈkəʊs/
adjective
given to or characterized by joking; jesting; humorous; playful
Derived Forms
jocosely, adverb jocoseness, jocosity (dʒəˈkɒsɪtɪ) noun
Word Origin and History for jocose
adj.
1670s, from Latin iocosus “full of jesting, joking,” from iocus “pastime,sport; a jest, joke” (see joke (n.)). Implies ponderous humor. Related:Jocosely ; jocoseness.
KTF
If you cant join Belgium, beat them.
Grace
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eRtALXNQ2nk
Celtic -2
Ave Ave
Big game tonight.
I think the back 5 will be as it was at the weekend
I expect N’tcham will partner Brown
The front 4 is unpredictable with only Sinclair a certainty.
It’s 50:50 between Roberts and Forrest
It’s 50:50 between Griff and Moussa
It’s 33:33:33: between Rogic, Armstrong and Calum for the no. 10 spot
Dependant on how much height we need to combat Anderlecht at set pieces, i would not be surprised to see Callum get the nod
James Forrest has an interesting article on The Celtic Blog about Sevco fans getting a much larger allocation of tickets for their Motherwell LC semi than the 50:50 split we have with Hibs.
Strange
Bon jour. Another European Night for Celtic. I hope all the bhoys and ghirls who are in Belgium for the game enjoy the country and the city as much as I did during my four years in Belgium. No doubt you will have made your way to see the Mannequin Pis. Often for big days and feass the little lad is dressed in various uniforms. Is he wearing a Celtic outfit today?
Enjoy your stay. Have you worked out the Flemish yet? Bring back a good result.
Two changes for tonight, Ntcham for Armstrong and Dembele for Griffiths
CONNAIRE12 on 27TH SEPTEMBER 2017 9:08 AM
Bon jour. Another European Night for Celtic. I hope all the bhoys and ghirls who are in Belgium for the game enjoy the country and the city as much as I did during my four years in Belgium.
###
Brussels is a strange city. It just doesn’t seem to be at ease with itself. And Anderlecht have a nasty element among their support. Travelling fans should be careful.
Worth another punt…………
Never let thum win……………………………….
HH.
………………………………………………………………………………………….
TOMMY JOAD on 26TH SEPTEMBER 2017 2:23 PM
A Joyful Lament to a Different Game
Celtic fans around the world spent last season commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Lisbon Lions European Cup success. The current team played their part with an unbeaten campaign that culminated in a treble. But amid the joyful nostalgia there is the recognition that that the game has changed beyond all measure in the intervening period.
It is a Saturday afternoon in Paisley, just outside Glasgow. The year is 1967 and a 28 year old man with a whimsical idea in mind is dialling a number in a telephone box, more in hope than expectation. A gruff sounding Irishman receives the call. A speculative request is made, and is granted after brief consideration. The necessary arrangements are agreed. The players of St Charles Boys Club should report to the stadium the next day at 10am for a tour of the ground. Some of the Celtic players – newly crowned European champions – are in for a light training session and will be happy to say hello. The man placing the call – my father – thanks the gentlemen on the other end, the Celtic assistant manager, Sean Fallon. A hectic evening ensues convincing disbelieving kids and parents alike that the proposed outing is not a hoax.
On the Sunday morning, Fallon was true to his word and a dozen or so wide eyed Paisley youngsters were greeted by the man from Sligo, who warmly introduced them to legendary manager Jock Stein and club icon Jimmy McGrory, along with a clutch of first team players who willingly had a kickabout with them at the ground, followed by a full tour of the stadium.
I’ve lost count how many times I’ve been told this story, both by my old man and by those who made the 10 mile trip to Glasgow’s east end with him. As I sat with my dad watching Brendan Rogers’ current Celtic team honour the 50th anniversary of the Lisbon Lions triumph with an undefeated treble in May this year, we reflected again on that impromptu encounter, laughing at the notion that a man in the street would have such direct, immediate and unfettered access to senior players and management at the home of the reigning European champions, while remembering that this was also a time when star midfielder Bobby Murdoch would take the bus to training on a daily basis and legendary winger Jimmy Johnstone borrowed money from the ball boys for a fish supper on the way home. Simpler times undoubtedly, when players and managers were still deeply embedded in their communities and were talented representatives and extensions of the wider support
In football as in life, the generations elapse and things change, but these anecdotes – now half a century old and heavily laden with nostalgia – form the basis of a lament to the modern game, where elite players are for the most part, fiercely protected from their fans. The story of the Lisbon Lions has been split into tens of thousands of narratives but it remains eternal and special largely because eleven men, all from within thirty miles of Glasgow, conquered Europe with an earthy, gallus swagger which is entirely different to the pretentious conceit we often see at the top level of football today.
I often argue with my dad that nostalgia can contaminate the memory when it comes to football but in the case of the Lions, the evidence pointing towards true greatness is overwhelming. Some might also argue, and not without reason, that Celtic fans have an inclination towards the sentimental but it’s important to acknowledge the club would not have the history and romance it has now, had those players not had the courage and ability they had then, but the magnitude of their unique achievements were not always recognised in some quarters. From the UK media, national team selectors and even from within the boardroom at Celtic Park they received contemporary applause, followed by oblivion, with the odd moment of rediscovery. Chief executive Peter Lawell and Martin O’Neill raised their profile greatly again around the millennium, though the fans had never allowed these ordinary heroes to be forgotten.
When Jock Stein arrived as manager in 1965 there was no drum roll to accompany him. Trumpets did not play. His limited playing career and plain speaking offered no hint of his visionary attitude to the game. He was an ex miner whose values of modesty, humility and teamwork were forged in the pits, a man who in the words of Hugh McIllvanney was “educated below his intelligence”. His impact on the club and on his players was seismic. Victory over the mighty Inter Milan in Lisbon was as one sided as a 2-1 victory could possibly be, where Celtic dominated proceedings entirely, despite the oppressive heat and the concession of an early goal. It is unlikely that there has ever been a more fruitful or historic collaboration between two full backs than Jim Craig’s perfectly timed cutback for Tommy Gemmell to hammer in the equaliser from the edge of the box, a combination which epitomised the relentlessly attacking nature of the Celtic performance. When Stevie Chalmers diverted Gemmells strike beyond the one man barricade of Giuliano Sarti, the Italians had long since abandoned any pretence of attempting to win the game.
Re-watching the entire ninety minutes is an illuminating experience; Celtic were absolutely masterful.
Millions of words have been written about this special team so when the anniversary documentaries and articles began to be trailed it was hard to see where the fresh angle would come from. The new perspective on their achievements came with a heavy dose of melancholy and sadness, with news earlier in the year that team captain Billy McNeill was in advanced stages of Alzheimer’s disease, which was closely followed by the passing of Tommy Gemmell. These were hard blows for a group of men who are close as brothers and the anniversary celebrations were coloured by recent developments. The sight of Billy McNeill with the group in May this year prompted some throat clogging emotions for Celtic fans of all ages.
Jimmy Johnstone overcame the limitations of his genetic inheritance, not to mention some medieval tackling, to be voted the greatest Celt of all time. Bertie Auld epitomised the Glaswegian essence of the team with streetwise attitude and ability, while Bobby Murdoch held the compass every time the team advanced. But McNeill was the undisputed leader of the team. This son of a blackwatch soldier led the team out in Lisbon with the quiet nobility of a gladiator and ended it by ascending the concrete stairs alone, to be immortalised in the most famous photograph in the clubs history with the big cup. It must be difficult for family and ex-team mates to see a figure of such physical and mental fortitude in his current health.
Sporting icons, even the greatest, do not exist in a vacuum and the remaining Lisbon Lions are old men now. Even those St Charles Boys Club youngsters who attended Celtic Park on a bright Sunday morning are in their sixties. While all would acknowledge the incredible job Brendan Rogers has done in his maiden season to connect players, fans and management again, it would be an offence to most fans sensibilities to compare the two teams. It is equally futile to compare eras and traditions but one wonders what Jock Stein would have made of the corporate carnival of vanity that passes for the Champions League today, or what McNeill might think of the actions of Sergio Ramos in ensuring the dismissal of his opponent in the recent Champions League final.
The remembrance of the Lions was a season long celebration and they were commemorated brilliantly by supporters in the 67th minute of every game at home and away, in Scotland and abroad. For Celtic fans of my father’s generation, that Celtic team were men like themselves with the same daily concerns, who just happened to be sportsmen. Perhaps this is part of the reason why they continue to be so celebrated.
Sometimes it’s unhealthy to dismiss modern progress or to lapse into sentimentality for an extended period of time, but in the year of the Lisbon Lions 50th anniversary, it’s been entirely justified. There will never be another team like them.
Think I read somewhere that Brendan doesn’t think Moussa is ready to be starting a game for a while yet, given the nature of his injury, so i think it’s the Griff to start. Roberts or Forrest ? I’d be tempted to start with James and have pace on both sides – we may have to defend more than we’re used to tonight.
Rogic, McGregor, Armstrong……I’m glad Brendan is picking the team tonight and nae me.
SIONNACH ABU on 27TH SEPTEMBER 2017 9:11 AM
You’ve been warned previously about aggressive posting – continue and you’ll find yourself getting another red card.
Understood Mod,, Sincere apologies SFTB et al. My sense of humour leaves a lot to be desired. Enough already.
Amongst other things I noticed when rewatching, in slow motion, Rocky Pedro challenge Scott, was Miller’s reaction on the bench. Far from rushing to help Pedro, he observed it all with an air of distain – very interesting response.
SETTING FREE THE BEARS FOR RES. 12 & OSCAR KNOX on 27TH SEPTEMBER 2017 8:57 AM
James Forrest has an interesting article on The Celtic Blog about Sevco fans getting a much larger allocation of tickets for their Motherwell LC semi than the 50:50 split we have with Hibs.
Strange
———————————————————-
I saw some comments on Facetube last night from some kind of Hibs forum that made reference to the SFA giving Celtic fans their “favoured” end of Hampden – as if there was some kind of favouritism there that will play a significant part in the outcome of game.
Talk about getting your excuses in early!
I’m not sure if Celtic fans have a preference as to which end we sit.
Any thoughts??
https://twitter.com/rfc_charity/status/912361352219561985
*after pockling, works out at 0.09pence per hun who was there
SFTB @ 8.53,
Reasoned argument.
Posted very similar thoughts re tonight a few days ago.
Discussion with BSR yesterday concluded similarly, Ntcham, James and Callum possibly provide a more solid unit than Stu, Paddy and Tom, with the option of bringing a combination of the three on if necessary.
Griff or Moussa? Just thought Moussa kept for this game but….
In Brendan we trust.
Looking forward to our next most important game of the season!
Eurochamps67
MOONBEAMSWD on 27TH SEPTEMBER 2017 6:36 AM
Looks like yon media have it in for some Bhoys favourite second team this morning.
MWD
With no great offence intended,you are being a bit of a Tit this morning.Still,if it makes you happy on a day like today,carry on.
Btw,
I will be delighted with whatever Brendan decides.
What a great problem to have, pick any four from Stu, Oli, James, Paddy, Tom, Callum, Moussa Na Griff.
Eurochamps67
Anybody heard of a writer/journo called Greg O’Keeffe?
Then again the article could have been written by PL …
http://www.bbc.com/sport/football/41401233
I’d be happy with our 16% possession and winning scoreline stats against Barca.
Have no idea what BRs team will be.I know what mines would be,but I am a cabbage.
In Brendan we must trust.
Pity we were not playing that supposed football team,Moscow Spartak.The worst Pot 1 team to ever grace the CL.Klopp should be sacked for his performance.Liverpool should have swept away this team.
The panel after classed Moscow,as a very,very,poor team.
Lets show them how its done Celtic.
ERNIE LYNCH on 27TH SEPTEMBER 2017 9:18 AM
CONNAIRE12 on 27TH SEPTEMBER 2017 9:08 AM
Bon jour. Another European Night for Celtic. I hope all the bhoys and ghirls who are in Belgium for the game enjoy the country and the city as much as I did during my four years in Belgium.
###
Brussels is a strange city. It just doesn’t seem to be at ease with itself. And Anderlecht have a nasty element among their support. Travelling fans should be careful.
————————————————-
Celtic fans without tix already threatened with arrest.
Strange right enough…!
Like him or loathe him, JohnJames does not hold back…….
“Raking Over A Rigged Game”
https://johnjamessite.com/2017/09/27/raking-over-a-rigged-game/#comments
Interesting to note that as of 2010 ( can’t source any more recent figures), Bombardier Wast Belfast, formerly Shorts, employed around 17% Roman Catholics. Given the inevitable further bailout heading it’s way from the UK exchequer, isn’t now the time for Unite, Sinn Fein, SDLP, Alliance etc. to push for a programme aimed at cementing equal employment representation for religious minorities for the future.
THE NO 13 BOMBARDIER
(Sorry,open door there!)
I agree with you 100% on equal opportunities. But as I recall,Shorts was one of the worst,so if they now have 17% as against,say,5% ten years ago,they are working on it.
That’s not to make excuses for past practice but it sounds like current hiring levels are more evenly split.
Sure hope so…
Wouldn’t claim to know too much about Anderlecht, Paul, but I don’t think Belgian football can be that bad. They still have good young players coming through and they must be coming from somewhere!
Confident we can get a positive result tonight. Not sure what that is based on mind you!
Allez Les Verts!
Mon the good guys…
N.B. Anderlecht are most definitely the baddies…match fixing baddies…
Thousands are sailing Anderlecht, go figure defeat ;-)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gc1G7aCpSsI
Ave Ave
This is a plea to any true Tim in Brussels tonight who can do anything at all, to prevent any pyro incident, please do so. You will have my eternal thanks.
Full concentration tonight Celtic. It is possible to take a point, or points from this tie, but we will need to be at our best. Griff deserves to start, the changes that are merited from Saturday’s game are Ntcham for Armstrong, and Jamesie for Paddy. Tactically I would consider switching Rogic for Calmac, but think goalscorers in any one game, deserve to start the next game.
However, whatever Brendan decides is ok by me. I have not had so much confidence in the actions and decisions of a Celtic Manager since the big man.
Do it Celtic.
HH
NatKnow
I’m not sure if Celtic fans have a preference as to which end we sit.
————————————————————————————–
Do you mean “which end of their living room”? Or if they are posh Celtic fans “which end of their tv room”?
That’s right…having a TV room makes you posh…
I noticed a reference earlier to a James Forrest article-thanks,SFTB-so I decided to have a look.
I like James,maybe a bit verbose on occasion-brevity,dear Bhoy,brevity-but usually accurate.
If he turns up on 11/11 I’ll buy him more than one pint for this one. Oh,wow. Did he hit every target.
https://thecelticblog.com/2017/09/blogs/yesterday-show-racism-the-red-card-pandered-to-the-peepul-theyre-supposed-to-oppose/