CELTIC LEGEND AND former Ireland goalkeeper Packie Bonner has heaped praise on the Scottish side, after they unexpectedly beat Barcelona in the Champions League last night.
Speaking to BBC Radio Foyle, he compared the achievement to that of the famous Celtic team that lifted the European Cup in 1967, saying the 2-1 win was “up there [with the Lisbon Lions]. No question.”
He added: “For this young group of players, they’ll remember this above all things they do in their career. Young [Tony] Watt is only 18 years-old, coming on the pitch and scoring, he responded to the challenge. Last night was the making of him.”
Bonner insisted that the victory “wasn’t a fluke,” saying: “I know Barcelona had so much possession but they always have possession. Celtic went about their business really well last night.”
The ex-Ireland international, who made over 600 appearances for Celtic, also highlighted the importance of the victory for Scottish football, and emphasised the astute tactics employed by manager Neil Lennon ahead of the game.
“I certainly do think that Neil Lennon must take a lot of credit. He was brave, he went with Samaras and Miku up front. He didn’t go with five across although Miku was dropping off.
“That was a big chance to take but he had faith in the players. They responded to what he was asking so they obviously have worked on that side of it.”
