You will be told by some that an invincible season holds less than it would have before Rangers liquidation in 2012, but that assertion overlooks the clear facts. Martin O’Neill’s then-record points hauling treble winners lost to Kilmarnock. The Lions lost to Dundee United, twice. We always lost games to someone other than Rangers. If invincibility was achieved by stopping only one opponent there would be nothing special to report from yesterday.
This is an astonishing achievement. Invincibility over an entire season is unlikely, no matter what your comparative strengths in relation to the rest of your league are, for mathematical reasons.
Football teams convert a small percentage of their attempts at goal. There will be occasions when a team scored three from three chances, but there will also be times when a team has 20 attempts and fails to score.
Over the course of a season, the random distribution of chances converted is likely to match one of Celtic’s highly unproductive striking days, with an opponent who happen to score with perhaps their only attempt at goal. This phenomenon explains most results when poor teams beat significantly better rivals.
Strong teams are also commonly drop points away from home to top half of the table opposition. Here, Celtic have been truly imperious. We won twice away to each team in the top half of the table, scoring 6 at Aberdeen, 7 at Newco, 9 at St Johnstone, 7 at Hearts and 9 at Patrick.
It would also be lax not to mention the style of football. This is not a brutal domination of the ball and physical area of the pitch, Celtic play a stylish, flowing, game, which entertains and succeeds in equal measure.
One more bridge to cross before the job is complete.
Thanks for all the encouragement, and especially the donations to Celtic FC Foundation, for the Stirling Marathon yesterday. Before going to bed on Saturday night I read through all the donations and couldn’t wait to get started.
It was an unforgettable experience. We’ll wait and see if it’s also unrepeatable.
Our good pals at Intelligent Car Leasing have offered two (£100 each) tickets for the Lisbon Lions night at The Hydro, on Thursday. You can win them by raffle in aid of Mary’s Meals.
The raffle is open less than 12 hours, closes at midnight tonight, so mathematics also suggests your chances are none too shabby. To enter, make a minimum of £5 here, then email me, celticquicknews@gmail.com with the word “Hydro” in the subject line to confirm your entry.
Good luck!
ORDER TODAY AND WE WILL POST STRAIGHT AWAY FIRST CLASS POST SO YOU WILL HAVE FOR THIS WEEK’S CELEBRATIONS AND THE SCOTTISH CUP FINAL!
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Tet
Wee john wid hink its aw propogandurr.no,no thi 80s band.disnae sayin nuhhin az to why am no longer of the people.aw am sayin iz ah hid nuhhin to gee him.
;-)
HH
Girvan FC 3-0 Maryhill FC , onwards to Yoker on Saturday !
GFTB-cheers mate,enjoyed my podium,and was just sunbathing and enjoying the nice peaceful pool,when in came Gordybhoy mob handed:-)).By the by,centenary yr best ever for me :-))
CQN…
Good night and God bless, dont listen to the SSB on catch up Gerry fae Gartsherry is a total roaster
Give your own a wee extra hug, we live in great Celtic times
“this is how it feels to be Celtic”
Again, AngelGabriel great stuff with GFS2 at least that Thunder Road guy got his wish :-)
And for the Lisbon pilgrimage……enjoy every minute :-)
Fairhill Bhoy 9.37pm
Ditto :-)
Just watched clips of bbc Scotland’s lisbon program for Wednesday night ,it looks like a cracker .
2m55s in,my favourite ever Celtic player,the outrageously gifted Maestro,Paul McStay with a piece of sublime skill.Utter genius.
https://youtu.be/HPB7wvhjBe8
P67: Well done on your marathon run yesterday and money raised.
Delaneys Dunky & Twists n Turns: many thanks again for use of your tickets yesterday. Very much appreciated.
Weefra: thanks for your thoughts and kind words yesterday.
The INVINCIBLES: thank you for a brilliant season. It will live long in the memory.
Yesterday was brilliant. I didn’t think we’d get to the fixture unbeaten – not because we are not good enough – but just because it is so rare.
Meeting fine Tims for breakfast, fleeting hello’s at the corner and catching up with Gearóid98 & Thunder Road afterwards.
The highlight for me yesterday was the Green Brigade. The amount of creative thought, time and effort put into the tifo and 67th minute display was awesome.
First half a little disappointing, but only because we didn’t score. Second half was a fitting end to the league campaign.
Loved Paddy’s MOTM performance & Kieran Tierney’s interaction with GB at the end.
Raymac: excellent post.
GERRYFAETHEBRIG on 22ND MAY 2017 9:08 PM
Coatbridge Paper Bhoy
Didn’t realise you were “home” I was half thinking of nipping into the BV today but I hate going into Glasgow when am not working, hope all is good ……
Aye , all good, Lisbon tomorrow, what’s not to like?
Hope you and family are well and maybe a wee catch up when we come back.
Gb
Ps. Any cup final tickets;)
An Teach Solais: Go raibh maith agat don eolas faoin gCafé.
I live in eternal hope.
Irish Daily Star will have a Lisbon supplement tomorrow.
Still exhausted since yesterday so off to mo leaba and dreaming of a treble.
Oíche mhaith, Tims.
Made the St Marys Mass on Saturday morning. What a fantastic service. Everything just perfect for the Lions, very moving and humbling. Would love to get a copy of the orations by the Reverend Miller and Terry Dick. Both were outstanding. The recessional hymn was ‘ Faith of our Fathers ‘ sung beautifully by the St Andrews Choir and congregation.
Well for one man going to Lisbon tomorrow to retrace my father’s steps 50 years on this was nearly too much. By the way, Archbishop Tartaglia is most definitely a Celtic fan!
So it’s almost upon us, safe journey to all who are travelling to Lisbon, really looking forward to meeting you all over the next couple of days. My only trepidation is that my flight back on Saturday evening is 8.00 pm. We are in Henneseys for the cup final. It’s times like this I wish Elaine was coming with me!
HH Lisboa50anniversariocsc
Just on to wish Bateen Bhoy a happy 30th anniversary for today.
Himself and his good lady were lovely company this afternoon.
It was roasting over here today, so BMCUW bring your factor 100 :))))
Expect to see that Brendan will ensure in advance in public before games that there wii be no more ‘honest mistakes’ from MIBs and will give no quarter to the snide scottish press and television.
RB- aye, he might mention honest mistakes in games at Hampdump on recent years, saying how hard it is to win a Treble….
Logged in for a quick read through posts. Don’t post myself very often these days, but like to read the board.
Raymac’s post earlier ensured my logging on today was worthwhile. I’m humbled to consider Raymac my friend. Fascinating man, incredible life he’s lived. Hope to see many more of your posts Ray. ( copy below)
I see Reggie is on again. Further on from a week ago when WITS and Canamalar were at it re songs and the Republican movement let me state my case and where I’m coming from. I wasn’t brought up a Republican although a couple of my brothers were members. My father was a Redmondite, and a chairman of the AOH. I was made a Republican in August 69 when I watched as the RUC riot squad let the first house in Cupar Street be petrol-bombed. About a dozen of us had pelted a Loyalist mob for an hour until the RUC started moving towards us, That’s right–instead of facing the Loyalists they were facing us, 2 deep. I got to my bed at 3 0’clock in the morning when the Shorlands came with their Browning machine guns. Nothing much to be done there–petrol bombs don’t stop bullets.
I had a band after that which played all sorts of music including the Rebs. That band made sure to the best of their capabilities that no prisoner or their families went short or worried about money while they did their bit. The BOTOB was written by Paddy Joe McGuigan who was interned at the time and at Christmas time we were allowed into Long Kesh to play for the internees. They sang the song to us and we recorded it in Jan 1972. The proceeds went to the Civil Rights movement, as Green Cross was in it’s infancy.
The band all received letters from the authorities subsequently telling us we were barred from Long Kesh. I thought that was brilliant– I could now attack the Brits with impunity.
So, out of 69 rose the Provos, because the Sticks hadn’t protected the people. If they hadn’t appeared, we would have been trampled into the ground. So to Republican songs. Take Me Home to Mayo, Ireland United Gaelic and Free, The Provo’s Lullaby et al kept people’s morale up when it was most needed. There was also a lot of humour of the black variety. I make no apology for them.
You got the version of The Lonesome Boatman from a band called the Pikemen. I and the whistle player, Gogi McCullough came up with that arrangement.
Joe McDonnell was married to my niece. Big Doc used to frequent the gigs. I lost good friends. I counted McAirt and McKee as friends, I did Billy’s birthday a few years ago at his request, while the “Dogs”–D coy were his guard of honour.
I wanted to go the political route in the early 70’s. There have been instances when I’ve been ashamed to be a Republican, and instances where I’ve wept unashamedly, and times when I have been so proud.
So when people exercise their right to sing songs that I’ve sung myself, why should I say no?
As a Republican it is anathema to be anti Protestant or anti any religion or colour. Wolfe Tone, Robert Emmett, Henry Joy, Henry Munro are the epitome of what it is to be Republican.
As to the outcome of the Troubles, or War as I see it, the economic attacks were the reason the peace and the disarming came about’
For myself, I still sing rebel songs, but only when I feel like it.
I could name my price to put the old band on stage. I’ve only done it for people who look after the National Monuments this past few times and that’s the way it will stay.
Sing the songs. If it begins to affect Celtic, sing them in the pubs and clubs and houses.
It was my birthday yesterday. My youngest son was married on Saturday to a lovely Presbyterian girl, my whole family was there, my adored grandkids being a particular joy.
Then Celtic become invincibles, points, goals surpassed and a total joy abounding.
If anyone can beat that for a day, be my guest.
Evening what a great day in Paradise yesterday loved watching a young team making history playing entertaining football with a smile.
Looking forward to the final and the small matter of the LL anniversary as a fitting build up to a shot at the treble
To everyone in or going to Lisbon enjoy , its a great time to be a Celtic supporter HH
BABASONICOS71
One of my favourite ever Jamboskelpings.))
Billy Stark was magnificent that day.
After the second goal the camera pans up and you see a Starry Plough flag, that was us, we had got a load of flags and badges and long sleeve Starry Plough t-shirts made up for the Centenary season:))
Happy Celtic Days.))
TWISTS N TURNS
Thanks for reposting that Raymac piece, I couldn’t find it earlier, quality CQN writing and the kind of post that made me stay here through thick and thin since I stumble in hear some seven years ago:))
HH
HRVATSKI JIM on 22ND MAY 2017 7:24 PM
Tontine Tim
Thanks very much for that fascinating link.
* only found that earlier this year when researching Sam English after the zombies pathetic tribute to him.
I came across Margaret Finlay and looked a wee bit further, quite the lassie right enough. Trafalgar Hospital is only about 20 minutes from here tae.
TC on 22ND MAY 2017 10:01 PM
I’ll see if Fr Tom can get a copy for you.
Rev Ian spoke superbly well. Not bad fir the Kirk’s representative!
KTF
John Gillian has stepped down from the sevco bored …. ? ….. is this the tumblewood started to move south ? …let the spin begin
https://rangers.co.uk/news/headlines/rifc-plc-statement/
Dream tonight about the Munters expecting 7 or 8 good signings,and a decent high ranked team in the Europa,so they can beat them and then recieve their seeding to make their path into the groups easy.
The only problem is,its not a dream.They are excited at these prospects.
God love them.
Raymac . 3.27pm
Top post . Total respect . HH .
Ron Bacardi
Enjoy your trip . I spent a week in Cascais a couple of years ago . Loved it .
Dreadful news from Manchester.
Many dead in a terrorist attack on a pop concert.
RAYMAC on 22ND MAY 2017 3:27 PM
I see Reggie is on again. Further on from a week ago when WITS and Canamalar were at it re songs and the Republican movement let me state my case and where I’m coming from. I wasn’t brought up a Republican although a couple of my brothers were members. My father was a Redmondite, and a chairman of the AOH. I was made a Republican in August 69 when I watched as the RUC riot squad let the first house in Cupar Street be petrol-bombed. About a dozen of us had pelted a Loyalist mob for an hour until the RUC started moving towards us, That’s right–instead of facing the Loyalists they were facing us, 2 deep. I got to my bed at 3 0’clock in the morning when the Shorlands came with their Browning machine guns. Nothing much to be done there–petrol bombs don’t stop bullets.
I had a band after that which played all sorts of music including the Rebs. That band made sure to the best of their capabilities that no prisoner or their families went short or worried about money while they did their bit. The BOTOB was written by Paddy Joe McGuigan who was interned at the time and at Christmas time we were allowed into Long Kesh to play for the internees. They sang the song to us and we recorded it in Jan 1972. The proceeds went to the Civil Rights movement, as Green Cross was in it’s infancy.
The band all received letters from the authorities subsequently telling us we were barred from Long Kesh. I thought that was brilliant– I could now attack the Brits with impunity.
So, out of 69 rose the Provos, because the Sticks hadn’t protected the people. If they hadn’t appeared, we would have been trampled into the ground. So to Republican songs. Take Me Home to Mayo, Ireland United Gaelic and Free, The Provo’s Lullaby et al kept people’s morale up when it was most needed. There was also a lot of humour of the black variety. I make no apology for them.
You got the version of The Lonesome Boatman from a band called the Pikemen. I and the whistle player, Gogi McCullough came up with that arrangement.
Joe McDonnell was married to my niece. Big Doc used to frequent the gigs. I lost good friends. I counted McAirt and McKee as friends, I did Billy’s birthday a few years ago at his request, while the “Dogs”–D coy were his guard of honour.
I wanted to go the political route in the early 70’s. There have been instances when I’ve been ashamed to be a Republican, and instances where I’ve wept unashamedly, and times when I have been so proud.
So when people exercise their right to sing songs that I’ve sung myself, why should I say no?
As a Republican it is anathema to be anti Protestant or anti any religion or colour. Wolfe Tone, Robert Emmett, Henry Joy, Henry Munro are the epitome of what it is to be Republican.
As to the outcome of the Troubles, or War as I see it, the economic attacks were the reason the peace and the disarming came about’
For myself, I still sing rebel songs, but only when I feel like it.
I could name my price to put the old band on stage. I’ve only done it for people who look after the National Monuments this past few times and that’s the way it will stay.
Sing the songs. If it begins to affect Celtic, sing them in the pubs and clubs and houses.
It was my birthday yesterday. My youngest son was married on Saturday to a lovely Presbyterian girl, my whole family was there, my adored grandkids being a particular joy.
Then Celtic become invincibles, points, goals surpassed and a total joy abounding.
If anyone can beat that for a day, be my guest.
===========================================================
Fascinating insight.
But what has that got to do with Celtic ?
Meanwhile , nineteen dead in Manchester and the inevitable comparison to Birmingham.
About 18 months ago,I suggested to Mrs WF that I wanted to go to Lisbon prior to the Vegas Convention.She literally spent hours searching for flights.AND TODAY’S THE DAY! Perth to Singapore to Zurich and arrive in Lisbon 4pm Wed.We will arrive as strangers but leave as friends as part of this family called Celtic.We look forward to meeting you all and safe travel to everyone.
Hope BRTH is well enough to partake in the celebrations,a reward he so richly deserves. HH.
Macjay
You know this subject inside out.
You could win a debate on this given four different arguments.
For you to ask “what has this to do with Celtic ?” just seems like a cheap politician being dishonest.
WTF.
Macjay1 is trying to move on.
Heaven forbid that what has happened in Manchester Tonight, happened @ Celtic Park.
It does not bear thinking about.
Terror is in Town. Unfortunately.
I’m a Believer so it is Easier.
starry plough on 22nd May 2017 10:50 pm
BABASONICOS71
One of my favourite ever Jamboskelpings.))
Billy Stark was magnificent that day.
After the second goal the camera pans up and you see a Starry Plough flag, that was us, we had got a load of flags and badges and long sleeve Starry Plough t-shirts made up for the Centenary season:))
Happy Celtic Days.))
………………………………………….
Billy Stark was awesome. MagicAL player. So Good.
Jozo is Primed for the CL proper. Jozo can tackle well.
Don’t you ever
Jozos TIMing is impecable. He is a Big Lad as well – Scarey.
Jozo is FEARLESS..
MACJAY
You know I love you to bits,so this pains me.
RAYMAC posted about his life. None of it made up,all of which I reckon he would gladly have gone without. He didn’t post to boast,he posted from experience and from the heart.
Neither of us had to make the decisions which RAYMAC did,and we are truly fortunate. Battles were won here and in Ulster towards parity.
They didn’t get won by waving a white flag nor by begging. Belligerence,aye,perseverance most definitely.
I’ll salute RAYMAC,MACANBEATHA et al,not for their guns,but for their brains.
Oh aye,and definitely that forbearance stuff.
PS-I picked up my Dad a few hours ago in Swindon. Amazing the things you find,innit? Back home,a wee ACGR hauf,and a choon on the CD.
Grace.
Oh,my Dad was nearly in tears,who’s that,he asked?
That’ll be RAYMAC I replied.
Yep,that’s RAYMAC. Guid chanter and unrepentant.
I’m halfway there myself!
JOZOS gonnae get You!!!
I’m Delighted that Jozo is still here @ Celtic.
He is Awesome as a Defender.
Jozo is Sent from the Almighty.
He is so Confident when he speaks.
Brendan is the Man…. He knows how good Jozo is.
Great CELTIC work getting another World Class player to CELTIC.
Big Time
Just arrived in Atlanta and saw the news.
Dreadful scenes in Manchester.
Thoughts and prayers for all involved. Locals seemingly doing everything they can for the stranded. Lovely to hear.
RobinBhoy,
As far as I can gather, it is a teenagers type concert as well.
Awesome stuff by Manchester Taxi drivers all doing what they could to help for so many.
The Emergency boys and girls definitely deserve maximum respect for being so Brave going into an unknown situation.
The people of Manchester deserve a huge pat on the back for their human kindness tonight.
God Bless all those who perished or suffered tonight and their families,