IT WAS a goal fit to win any game and, thankfully, it was enough to win the Scottish Cup for Celtic at Hampden yesterday.
The clock was ticking and extra-time was looming when Alistair Johnston picked up a loose ball in the Hoops half. The Canadian World Cup right-back switched it to the always-available Callum McGregor, the onfield leader patrolling the midfield berth.
The captain moved the ball crisply to Daizen Maeda who nudged it back into the path of Paulo Bernardo in the centre circle.
MAN ON A MISSION…Paulo Bernardo leaves Nico Raskin in his slipstream as he races towards goal.
The Portuguese playmaker was quick to ease away from a clumsy challenge from Nico Raskin and immediately got into his stride as he headed for Jack Butland’s goal.
The on-loan Benfica ace carried the ball foward until he unleashed a mighty right-foot shot from outside the box.
The Ibrox keeper was bamboozled by the flight of the ball as he desperately threw out a hand to his left. He managed to stun the shot, but the ball broke loose for just a moment.
And that was all Adam Idah needed to pounce as he followed in Bernardo’s shot with defenders caught on their heels.
HOOP HOOP HOORAY…Adam Idah takes the salute of the Celtic fans as Jack Butland surveys the scene.
The Republic of Ireland international frontman didn’t hesitate as he thumped the rebound into the back of the net.
Job done! The Scottish Cup was heading back to Parkhead for the 42nd time.
Now there is a clamour for Brendan Rodgers to convert the Norwich City forward’s temporary stay into a permanent one.
What a good idea!
The Cup winner is worth a second look courtesy of those good folk at Celtic TV Unique Angle.
Please enjoy!
