THE BHOYS
Brisbane Celtic 2 Colleges United 1
Phew!!!!
The bhoys completed the double with a hard fought victory in a nail
biting encounter against a Colleges side who admirably played their
hearts out in their bid for glory.
Sadly the uneven bounce from the pitch ensured Celtic couldn't play their usual passing game of possession
football. As expected Colleges packed their midfield, and scrapped for
every ball in what was basically a war of attrition lacking the skill
and subtleties of Celtics usual style of play.
The dour battle was lit up with a piece of magnificent skill after 30
minutes when Sam Crawford scored for Celtic with a stunning shot from
25 yards which flew into the top corner of the net.
Celtic were never really in any trouble in the first half as Colleges only real threat came
from high balls into the box from free kicks and corners.
ht 1-0
The second half was only just underway, when sloppy play and a missed
tackle on the right proved costly as a colleges player took advantage
and launched a high ball which flew over Goalie Rick Burke's head
and into the net, it was either goal of the season, or one hell of a fluke, only the goalscorer knows for sure. The equaliser brought about a flurry of
substitutions, realised the next goal would probably win the match. Within 10 minutes Celtic were back in front as stroke of luck went Celtics way, when Jez Lazenby blocked a clearance from the goalie and the resulting
mix up allowed top scorer Liam Mullaney to drive the ball into the net
from 20 yards out.
Colleges kept battling away but were unable to trouble Celtic's goal, with the exception of a few well taken corners which led to a nervous and uncomfortable last 20 minutes. Celtic spurned a couple of late chances to increase their lead, and finish the game off, so the relief on all the players, management and
supporters faces was a moment to relish, when the referee blew the final whistle.
FT 2-1
Brisbane Celtic Commercial league Grand Final Winners 2008
After the final whistle, both teams embraced in mutual respect for
their endeavours, it was a typical Cup Final, not pretty to watch, but every player on boths sides gave their all, with Celtics extra quality just being enough to win the title. It was played in great spirit, and both teams were a credit to their clubs. Sadly Celtic will lose a few players, as some are heading back to Ireland, but the recruitment drive will start soon, and we look forward to competing in The Premier League next season.
Thanks for all your help guys
John Mullaney
Brisbane Celtic fc
