Maloney Shines As Celts Stroll to 3-0 Win

[zmcfc]

Maloney Shines As Celts Win

Born-again bhoy Maloney stole the show today at Celtic Park as a McManus header and a brace from Georgios Samaras gave Celtic a comfortable league victory over Falkirk.

With rivals Rangers only managing a 1-1 draw with Aberdeen earlier in the day, the onus was on Celtic to try to secure first place in the SPL going into next week's Old Firm Derby. Last season's top-scorer Scott McDonald was ruled out with a groin injury, with Greek striker Georgios Samaras taking his place up front. New Bhoy Glenn Loovens made his debut as centre-back, replacing Gary Caldwell and Shaun Maloney started on the bench.

Celtic started the game looking a little ragged, with close chances falling to both sides. Within the first minute, a Venegoor Of Hesselink shot curled wide of the post, while a few minutes later, captain Stephen McManus sloppy pass almost cost Celtic a goal.

Artur Boruc had a good game today with some fantastic saves, the first of which occurred on the 16th minute when he parried Scott Arfield's powerful drive.

Maloney had the chance to make his return to the Parkhead pitch when Vennegoor of Hesselink suffered an ankle injury in a clash with Lee Bullen and had to be stretchered off. Rapturous applause greeted the former bhoy as he came onto the pitch.

He soon made his presence felt, as the free-kick he won on the right wing was swung in expertly by Nakamura and McManus got the vital touch to direct the ball to the goal.

Boruc produced another fine save five minutes later as Michael Higdon powered a fantastic shot from twenty yards. However, Boruc was equal to the shot and managed to knock the ball beyond the post.

Celtic doubled their lead close to half-time as a great move in which Maloney threaded a through ball to Samaras who coolly rounded the keeper and slotted home.

Lisbon Lion Billy McNeil made an appearance at half-time to celebrate the 50th anniversary of his debut for Celtic and was treated to a rousing reception.

Celtic started the second half well, with Falkirk struggling to get a foothold in the game. The inevitable third goal came on the 68th minute as a good spell of possession for Celtic paid off when Maloney flicked the ball into the path of Samaras who beat the keeper from ten yards out.

New bhoy Marc Crossas was given his debut in the last twenty minutes, and impressed the Celtic faithful.

The final whistle sounded as the Celtic fans went home happy with the performance and pleased with Maloney, who simply stole the show.

Thoughts will now turn to next Sunday's meeting with Rangers at Celtic Park, with fans hoping Celtic can carry this momentum on to the derby and if Maloney has done enough to earn a start.