Celtic Out But Strachan Proud

Celtic took Italian giants AC Milan to extra time at the San Siro last night, only for a 93rd minute goal from Brazilian mid-fielder Kaka to knock them out.

Gordon Strachan, the Celtic manager, was full of praise for his players after their extra-time defeat at the San Siro.

“I’m very proud of them. If there was a Champions League trophy for guts and determination then we must be in with a chance of winning it.

“There were two great teams - one with more technique, one with incredible heart, will and determination.

“If we can improve on technique we’ll be a good side. That’s the vision - we’ve got an incredible will to win.”

Celtic had been a little under pressure during normal time and their goalkeeper, Artur Boruc, made three excellent saves to keep Celtic in the tie. He was beaten once though by the eventual match winner, Kaka, who also hit the crossbar.

Perhaps, it just wasn’t going to be Celtic’s night despite all the hard work and determination. They had an extremely good shout for a penalty turned down when the Italian legend Paolo Maldini seemed to handle the ball in the area. Late on in the game there was another, albeit weaker shout, for another one but Strachan did not want to talk about either incident, saying,

“I don’t want to sour the night with headlines about referees.

“The night belongs to the players who played the game and supporters of both sides. I’ll leave the rest for everyone to get on with.”

Unlucky Celtic, but I think we can safely say that they might be on course to qualify for next season’s competition without too much problem. There are only a mere 19 points ahead at the top of the table. And what makes that all the more sweet for Celtic fans is, don’t forget which team is in second all those points behind! Rangers, their arch rivals. Though I’m sure there were a few Milan fans in the West End of Glasgow last night.

The Soccer Blogger