Celtic handedly won the home leg against Nomme Kalju on a day that gave Hoops fans plenty to be ecstatic about. Prior to the match, Celtic was considered a heavy favorite against the Estonian side. Here at The Celtic Bhoys, we predicted Celtic to take the match by three to four goals. Celtic outdid our projection and went on to win 5-0.
The frenzy was kick-started by a 36’ goal by Ajer. It appeared the game was going to be a slow one to start, with many believing that Celtic should have scored earlier and more often than they did. However, those thoughts were put to rest when two more goals were scored in the twelve minutes following the Ajer goal. The second goal was a an easy penalty conversion by Christie. The third goal of the game was far more special, as it held meaning for the Hoops, fans, and most importantly- Leigh Griffiths.
Griffiths returned to the starting lineup after eight months, in what was a battle against depression. Griffiths looked to be in old form when he was able to curl a free kick into the net from nearly 30 yards. Griffiths’ career was believed by many to be over. However, he was able to silence the doubters and prove he still has value to the club.
Following Griffiths’ goal, Christie opened up the second half with an absolute beauty of a shot in the 65’. Christie put on a clinic during yesterday’s match, and seems to be the guy to watch as the season begins in August. Finally, McGregor was able to put an extra score through the back of the net in the 77’, all but making the second leg against Nomme Kalju nothing more than a formality.
Celtic is slated to play Nomme Kalju in Estonia on July 30 for the second leg. Celtic’s Scottish Premiership League opener against St. Johnstone will follow up that match on August 3.
Extra Time:
· Hoops fans have a lot to be excited for. Yesterday, Elhamed, Celtic’s newest signing joined the team, but did not participate the match. The Israeli defender signed a four year deal, and is reportedly very happy to join the Hoops.
· Leigh Griffiths posted an emotional social media message following yesterday’s match.
· Christie was an absolute stud yesterday, and should continue to be a big part of this club’s success going forward.