SHANE DUFFY powered in a net-thumping header to mark his debut for lifelong heroes Celtic in the 5-0 victory over Ross County in Dingwall yesterday.
And then the man-mountain Republic of Ireland international central defender admitted: “I need to get better!”
Duffy, on loan from Brighton for the season, rose to a Callum McGregor’s right-wing corner-kick to blitz in the third goal after Odsonne Edouard, with an exquisite penalty-kick, and Albian Ajeti, with a quick swivel and strike, had made it 2-0 for the champions at the interval.
After Duffy’s towering header, centre-back partner Kristoffer Ajer tucked away the fourth and Patryk Klimala, after great service from fellow-substitute Mohamed Elyounoussi, rolled in the fifth.
Duffy, speaking to Glasgow Live, said: “I was obviously delighted it was a winning start and it was clean sheet. First-half, was a bit edgy and we weren’t really happy. I know we were 2-0 up, but we had to fix a few things at half-time. I think second-half we controlled the game and it could have been more than five.
“It was great day. I try not to overthink it, I tried to go out there do my job, first and foremost, and play well. I know there is a lot of pressure for me to come up and do well, so I just want to take it game by game. I’ll go home and reflect on it and it’s a proud moment that I played for Celtic which is a dream come true.”
Reflecting on his goal, he added: “Yeah I was delighted. I fancy myself most games if the delivery is right. When it’s 2-0 anything can happen in games and 3-0 really puts it to bed. A big moment in the game and then the lads went on and were brilliant.
“We know we have these run of games and we’ve got a few games in hand. We’ll try to win every game and close the gap.
“I’ve only had three or four sessions with the team, so I’m still getting to know the players’ strengths and weaknesses and the manager, so obviously I know I’ll grow and get better.
“I’m my biggest critic, so I know I need to get better. But I was delighted with the 5-0 win and to keep a clean sheet and we can build on it.”
RISE AND SHINE: DUFFY JOINS THE GOAL PARADE
