Algarve Tournament Over for Celtic

[Martin]

Celtic lost 1-0 to Cardiff City last night in Portugal in a dour pre-season friendly.

In Celtic's second and final match in the Algarve Tournament, Gordon Strachan opted to rest the regulars and field an experimental line up pairing Balde and O’Dea in central defence, with Caddis and Hinkel in the full back berths. The midfield was more predictable but up front young McGowan had a rare start alongside Samaras. Cardiff city, last season's FA Cup finalists, fielded no less than three former Rangers players in the starting line up.

The first half was lacklustre at best for Celtic as they struggled at times to retain possession, while allowing their opponents plenty of the ball. Indeed, Cardiff looked comfortable in the opening period, hitting the woodwork and taking the lead in the 16th minute, as Ledley fired a low accurate shot across the keeper towards the far corner. The remainder of the first half passed without much goalmouth action and Cardiff, probably deservedly, carried their lead to half time.

The second half started in rather more lively fashion with early chances at either end, Celtic slowly raising their game and forcing the play in Cardiff’s half. As the half progressed Celtic brought on McManus, McDonald and Vennegoor of Hesselink as Gordon Strachan sought to turn the game. Nevertheless this was hardly thrilling entertainment and both teams failed to deliver any inspiration as the match finished 1-0 to Cardiff.

Celtic: M. Brown, Caddis, Balde, O’Dea, Hinkel, S.Brown, Hartley, Donati, Robson, McGowan, Samaras