Frail's praise for terrific Celtic support at Hampden

by Joe McHugh Youth team boss Stevie Frail has saluted the Celtic support that roared his side to victory at Hampden last night.

The Green Brigade, plus reinforments, were out in force backing the young hoops from the warm up through until the final celebrations.

After the match the players joined in wild celebrations with the fans with Frail leading the praise for the twelth man at Hampden.

He said: "The crowd were absolutely fantastic, we owe them a big thank you.

"They kept us going right from the first whistle. Before we finished the warm up they started teaming in and I couldn't believe how many were there.

"They were terrific, they gave the team a lot of backing and the celebrations at the end were fantastic."

Two years ago Richie Towell was a loser at Hampden but the right-back lapped up every moment of last night's success with his own personal support group over from Dublin for the occassion.

He said: "Our fans were brilliant. They outsung the Rangers fans all through the game and really were like a twelfth man.

“At the start of the second half we looked over at the fans who were singing their hearts out and that gave us a lift.

“When the goals went in it was an amazing feeling. Two years ago I lost in this final to Rangers so this was very sweet.

“My family and a few friends flew over for the match, it was great to celebrate with them afterwards."

Match report and quotes

Super subs Fitzharris and Twardzik win the cup for Celtic

A wondergoal from Sean Fitzharris swung the SFA Youth Cup Final Celtic's way as the young hoops sealed the u-19 double.

After a less than memorable first half the second half turned out to be much more lively with substitutes Fitzharris and Filip Twardzik turning the game Celtic's way.

Goalkeeper Danielle Giordano played a massive part in the win with a point blank save from Archie Campbell just four minutes before Fitzharris's opener.

"We felt that if we played as we can we would win," coach Stevie Frail explained afterwards. "But in cup finals, especially an Old Firm match, it's about who can handle the occassion, who has the bottle and mental strength.

"In the second half we showed exactly what we've had all season. You need determination and desire to succeed, it's not only about silky soccer and we tell the players that.

"We should have played better tonight on a good surface but nerves and the way cup finals go had an impact.

"Winning trophies helps players to develop. If we finish in mid-table at u-19s and don't win a cup then I don't think that we're going to have many players good enough to get a first team chance.

"We want to be successful by playing in the right way. Without being blase a lot of the stuff that we've played this season has been excellent."

Despite having the balance of possession in the first half Celtic failed to carve out any meaningful chances.

Greig Spence cut an isolated figure up front with only some bursts from James Forrest down the left flank causing Rangers any concern.

Spence forced a good save out of Grant Adams four minutes into the second half but the game really livened up in the 54th minute when Giordano pulled off a fantastic instinctive save from Campbell.

"I think that was the turning point in the game," Frail added. 
"Their striker hit it well but it was a reaction save and we went up the park and scored.

"Strikers and scorers get the praise and headlines, rightly so because it's difficult putting the ball in the net but Danielle had a fantastic save tonight."

Shortly after that save Fitzharris replaced the injured Darren McCauley with the substitute making an incredible impact within two minutes of coming on.

Coming in off the left flank with little in the way of options the substitute let rip with a fierce dipping shot that flew across Adams into the far corner of the net.

"Jordan Lowden wanted me to pass the ball and was ready to shout at me but it was great to find the net," the goalscorer explained.

"I'm not going to lie, I was devastated to be on the bench tonight. From the bench I had a desire to get on and do something but to score a goal like that was amazing.

"There was a bit of luck involved in it but it was a great feeling to find the net.

"As soon as I got on the park I forgot about being dropped and concentrated on playing my game.

"You can't argue with the manager's decisions. We've got quality throughout the whole squad, myself and Filip came on and scored the two goals."

Even by their own high standards the noise coming from the Green Brigade increased after Fitzharris's goal with Celtic starting to play with an extra level of confidence.

In the 68th minute Spence went off suffering from cramp with substitute Twardzik waiting three minutes before nodding home an inswinging free-kick from James Keatings.

Rangers never really looked like getting back into the match but they were given no encouragement from the Celtic defence marshalled by skipper Matty Hughes and Deccy Gallagher in front of the impressive Giordano.

After the presentations and celebrations had died down a little Frail explained the decision to bench Fitzharris despite the key role that he had played in securing the title.

The hoops coach added: "Players worry about themselves, I have to worry and think about the squad. We know that Sean can play, it was a hard decision to leave him out because he did very well against Rangers at Murray Park a few weeks ago.

"I could see on Tuesday that he was dissapointed, I would expect nothing else. We picked the team, he was part of the squad, he took it on board and didn't sit and sulk.

"He was around the team and when we asked him to go and do it he delivered. It was a fantastic goal and he was brought down for the free-kick that led to the second goal."

On Friday Celtic complete their domestic campaign away to Hearts in the SPL.

CELTIC: Giordano; Towell, Hughes, G Gallagher (S O'Donnell 89), Lowdon; Bagshaw, G Gallagher, McCauley (Fitzharris 56); Keatings, Spence (F Twardzik 68), Forrest. SUBS Kennedy, McGregor

RANGERS: Adams; Durie (McCausland 77), Cole (Wiktorski 83), Scott, Wylde; Ness (Dick 63), McGeouch, Hutton, McCabe; Campbell, Naismith SUBS Weir, Wright.

Some great pictures from the match

Totally mental celebration picture! 

Celtic youth side prepare for title clincher

Stevie Frail has invited the Celtic support into Lennoxtown tomorrow as the u-19 side look to clinch the SPL title.

A draw against Aberdeen tomorrow will be enough to give Celtic the championship but after seven straight wins the young hoops are looking to keep their momentum going ahead of Wednesday's SFA Youth Cup Final with Rangers on Wednesday.

The league could be clinched this afternoon if Rangers fail to win at Dundee United but regardless of that result Frail is looking for another winning performance from his side against Aberdeen.

He said: "We've had a great week in training and all of the players are looking forward to this match, Saturday can't come quickly enough for them.

"They've been sharp and lively and are confident with the run of wins that they've had.

"It would be great to see a few more supporters along to see what's coming through at the club.

"Supporters like to identify players that are coming through the ranks and this group are progressing well."

Over the season Celtic have lost just twice in the league and responded to their last defeat, 2-1 at home to Rangers, by embarking on their current seven match winning run.

Alongside that they have beaten Threave Rovers, Brora Rangers, Dundee United and Livingston to reach the final of the SFA Youth Cup.

The squad has been changed frequently throughout the season with competition for places in every area of the park.

As well as players brought through the ranks from the traditional scouting areas of Scotland and Ireland the side has been able to call upon Italian goalkeeper Daniele Giordano and midfielder Filip Twardzik from the Chech Republic.

Last Saturday Celtic beat Hibs 2-0 to inch closer to the title with James Forrest returning to the side alongside Darren McCauley.

Competition for places in midfield and in attack is especially fierce with a dozen or more players competing for six places.

Every manager likes to be confronted with options when he picks his side with Frail no exception.

He added: "There are loys of factors that come into picking the team, we look at the boys in training, consider our opponents and how we fared in the last match.

"Grant Gallagher missed out through injury last week and Darren McCauley stepped into midfield, up front it was good to have James Forrest back after more than a month being out injured.

"We've got strong competition for places and that's what every coach is looking for, they all want to play and there's a cup final coming up as well.

"No-one is looking too far ahead and all of our thoughts or on Aberdeen.

"They beat Rangers last week and will want to finish the season on a high.

"Players have got contracts to play for as well as their own pride, we had Aberdeen watched on Tuesday when they drew with St Mirren and we know that they will be tough opponents.

"We started the season well with a 2-0 win at Aberdeen and the same sort of result on Saturday would be great."

Frail joy as title triumph gets closer

Stevie Frail was delighted by his side's performance to beat Hibs today to move to a point away from clinching the championship.

Goals from James Keatings and Greig Spence put a smile on the coach's face with just one point required from the last two matches against Aberdeen and Hearts to put the title beyond Rangers.

"We're getting close to winning the league and that can get nervy," Frail said. "I though that we were terrific today, especially in the first half.

"They passed and moved the ball well, scored a good goal and there didn't seem to be any tension in their play.

"We got the second goal at a good time and looked comfortable after that. 

"The players were told to look only at this game, take each game on it's merit and not be sidetracked. If they play as they can and work as we ask them to then there should be no problems."

Keatings spectacular goal in the 28th minute killed off any nagging fears of a frustrating afternoon in front of goal.

During the first part of the season Keatings was used mainly on the wing but has moved inside in recent months with Sean Fitzharris taking over out wide.

Frail explained: "James has scored a few good goals this season, he got a top class goal down at Kilmarnock.

"He played well earlier in the season coming in off the wing, he was hard to pick up. At times we've had to put him in the middle and he's did well there in recent matches especially against Livingston and Rangers. 

"We're always at him to shoot but at the right times. Sometimes he pulls the trigger when he's not set and skies it but today he took a touch in the middle of the park, opened up his body, looked to shoot and struck it well and their 'keeper couldn't reach it."

Spence scored for the seveth game running with the former Alloa striker visibly growing in confidence game by game.

As well as having the priceless knack of anticipating where the ball will drop in the penalty area the striker has developed the art of getting himself in front of defenders and turning quickly despite taking some hefty 'treatment' from opponents.

"Long may Greig's scoring run continue," Frail added. "He led the line very well today and is a nuisance for defenders. He's gaining in confidence with every game.

"That's not just from his goals but from his performance against Rangers which was arguably his best game for us."

Celtic 2-0 Hibs match report

Rangers slip up as double chasing youths prepare for Falkirk challenge

Celtic's double chasing u-19 side travel to Stirling University tomorrow to face Falkirk with the match kicking-off at 11am.

Last week's 1-0 win over Rangers has put Stevie Frail's side into the driving seat for the title with just three matches left to play after the clash with Falkirk.

Rangers 0-0 draw with St Johnstone earlier today leaves the young hoops six points clear at the top of the table with Rangers having played a game fewer.

A win tomorrow against Falkirk, who they defeated 4-1 last month, would stretch Celtic's lead at the top of the table to nine points.

With the SFA Youth Cup to be contested against Rangers at Hampden on April 28 the u-19 side have the possibility of winning the double but Frail has been keeping their attention focussed on Falkirk.

He said: "I know it's cliched we can't afford to look any further than the next match and Falkirk will be a tough match for us.

"The players are looking forward to the match and we've had a good week in training after the result last week against Rangers.

"We had a bounce game against Airdrie during the week where we played a few of our under-seventeen players and we had some players involved in the reserves 4-1 win over Hamilton.

"We've got ourselves into a good position in the league but we have to keep on winning, we're looking forward to the Falkirk match, we're confident about it but we know it will be another tough test."

Whatever level Celtic play Rangers at the match will always be the benchmark to judge players against.

Last Saturday's 1-0 win at Murray Park over Billy Kirkwood's team couldn't be described as a classic but showed the nerve and professionalism of the squad.

While developing and encouraging players is important installing a winning mentality is just as vital.

Frail added: "There was a lot to be encouraged with from the win last week, looking back at the game I was pleased with the professionalism that we showed.

"The game was tight but we held our nerve and even when we didn't have the ball we worked well.

"It might be a cynical part of the game but when we went in front we used the ball well, we played out time in the right areas.

"Even at senior level you see teams losing important goals late on and it's important to use the ball well when you are ahead in a tight match.

"The win last week was pleasing but we've got to move forward now and everyone is concentrating on facing Falkirk."

Spence is the goal hero as youth side beats Rangers.

A golden goal from the prolific Grieg Spence earned Celtic a 1-0 win over Rangers to put Stevie Frail's u-19 side into pole position to lift the SPL title.

With just seven minutes left to play the former Alloa striker timed his run to the front post perfectly to connect with a Richie Towell cross to give Celtic a richly deserved win at Murray Park.

The result puts Celtic seven points clear of Rangers with just four games left to play and although the Ibrox side have got two games in hand the destination of the championship is in Celtic's hands.

Youth coach Stevie Frail said: "We're delighted with the win, it's a tough place to come but we had a game plan, the players stuck to it and we're thrilled with the three points and also the performance.

"At times we had to be more direct, you can't play football all the time but ultimately we got three hard earned points.

"We've told the boys that nothing is won today, the game is over, we've picked up three points and we'll be in tomorrow working hard for the Falkirk match next week.

"They are young boys and they'll naturally be high after coming to their rivals ground and winning well. They need to temper things however and make sure that they are ready for the next match.

"We got three points today and we have to focus now on the game at Falkirk which will be just as tough."

Celtic started with the team that had beaten Livingston in midweek to reach the final of the SFA Youth Cup and enjoyed the bulk of possession throughout the first half.

Rangers were content to defend in depth with only two inswinging free kicks from Sean Fitzharris causing them any real concern.

The best chances of the first period came in the final minute when a snap shot from the Rangers Rhys McCabe came back off the post before Celtic raced to the other end of the park with Spence turning well onto a Paul Slane pass but finding his shot held by the Rangers 'keeper.

Within a minute of the restart James Keatings struck the post with Celtic upping the tempo and forcing Rangers further back without carving out much in the way of clear cut chances.

The match was following a familiar pattern with Celtic finding it almost impossible to break through the well organised Rangers defence.

With sixteen minutes left to play Darren McCauley replaced Keatings who seemed to take a bad blow on the ankle with Rangers almost snatching the lead in the 78th minute when Archie Campbell escaped from Declan Gallagher only to find Towell heading his net-bound shot round the post.

In the 83rd minute Celtic made the decisive breakthrough thanks to Spence.

After being forced across the Rangers 18 yard box Callum Bagshaw exchanged passes with Towell on the right with Spence timing his run to perfection to slide in at the front post to net before being mobbed by his jubilant team-mates.

"It was a well worked goal and something that we've been working on," Frail explained.

"We knew that the Rangers goalkeeper is good coming out for crosses so we wanted balls played in hard and low.

"Richie Towell put in a good cross and it was a great finish from Greig Spence. Greig did well to get across the front and get his touch in.

"We had a similar incident on Wednesday against Livingston when Richie opted to shoot rather than square the ball to Greig, but he put across a fantastic ball today and it was a great finish from Greig.

"The overall manner of the performance was great and I felt that Greig was exceptional playing up on his own.

"He held the ball up well, led the line and scored a well deserved goal.

"If we had lost today we'd have been hoping that Rangers slip up, we won the match and that is part of players development.

"Part of a players development is being involved in games like this where it is all about gaining the three points."

Celtic played out the remaining minutes expertly with the ball played into the corners to eat up precious time. 

RANGERS: Adam; Durie, Cole, Scott, Wylde; McCabe (Dick), Wiktorski, Hutton (McAusland), Ness, Naismith (Wright); Campbell

Subs: Weir, McGeouch, McNeil

CELTIC: Guardino; Towell, D Gallagher, Hughes, Lowden; Bagshaw, G Gallagher, Keatings (McCauley 74); Slane, Spence, Fitzharris.
SUBS: Kennedy, F Twardzik, Marsden, Jones, McGregor, O'Donell 

Frail's bhoys ready for Rangers title crunch

Youth boss Stevie Frail isn't planning to change his side's attacking instincts for tomorrow's Murray Park clash with Rangers.

Celtic lost 2-1 to Rangers at home last month despite having the bulk of possession giving Rangers a slight edge in the title race.

The Ibrox side put up an impressive defensive barrier in front of goalkeeper Grant Adams and took their chances with second half goals from Archie Campbell and Kane Hemmings before Bahrudin Atajic scored a late goal for Celtic.

It was almost a re-run of some classic mid-nineties clashes between the teams at first team level when Tommy Burns side tended to emerge with a moral win with the points going to Ibrox.

Frail's side is geared towards attacking football with the former Hearts boss convinced that only some minor changes are required to succeed tomorrow.

He said: "There are one or two small things that we need to take from the last game with Rangers.

"But looking at it from an attacking point of view we don't think that there was a great deal wrong.

"Anyone who was at the game can see that we were a unfortunate not to win it. Rangers had a game plan, they stuck to it and got the points. We need to make sure that we have a game plan for Saturday and we take the points from them."

Frail added: "This is a huge game for us but it's a match that we feel we are eqipped to win.

"Rangers have had a few extra days to prepare after playing on Sunday but we'll be up for the match and ready.

"We only have ourselves to deal with, we believe that we have a group of young players who will take enormous heart from the win over Livingston in terms of confidence.

"It'll be tough going to Murray Park but whenever the lads put on a Celtic strip people are out to knock them down and it's the same for Rangers."

Captain Matty Hughes previews the match

Earlier Celtic-Rangers league match

SPL u-19 table

Youths book final date with Rangers

Stevie Frail was delighted to see his Celtic side beat Livingston and book a final place against Rangers in the SFA Youth Cup.

Greig Spence's 10th minute goal was the difference between the two teams with Livi pushing Celtic all the way in a bid to take the match into extra-time.

Semi-finals are often described as 'tense, nervous affairs' with tonight's game matching that description perfectly.

The victory sets the season up nicely with Celtic and Rangers both knowing that winning their remaining matches will guarantee a league and cup double.

Although falling some way short of their best form Frail was pleased with the determination and discipline that his players showed to steer their way into the final.

He said: "We got to a cup final, all the pressure and expectations were on us. Players have their own expectations, their families were there to watch the game and that adds extra pressure.

"Players need to know that if they are going to make it at Celtic that there is expectations on them every single game of their career.

"They have to stand up and take it when teams are coming at them, everyone wants to beat Celtic."

Spence got Celtic off to the perfect start when he bundled the ball into the net from close range after Matty Hughes had headed a Sean Fitzharris corner back across goal.

Paul Slane, a January signing from Motherwell, made his first appearance of the season for the u-19 side and looked impressive with his turn of pace and close control.

Despite having the bulk of possession chances were few and far between with only a couple of useful looking crosses from the wings to test the Livingston defence.

At times Celtic got close to hitting form but the final delivery wasn't quite upto scratch although Sean Fitzharris had two decent second half penalty claims ignored by the referee.

"There was lots to be pleased about from the performance but equally there is a lot that we need to work at," Frail added.

"We did a lot of things well from middle to front but the final ball and decision making was a bit of a let down, however ultimately we're really pleased to be in the final.

"I think that Paul Slane became more influential as the game developed, he showed a lot in the second half.

"We swapped him with Sean Fitzharris to get them having a go at the opposite full-backs. This was the first time that Paul has worked with most of the players.

"He can be pleased with his performance, we're pleased with his performance, everything that he brought to the game enhanced what we have."
 CELTIC: Giordano; Towell, Hughes, D. Gallagher, Lowdon; Bagshaw, G Gallagher, Keatings; Fitzharris, Spence (F. Twardzik 83), Slane (McGregor 90)

Youth's focus on Livi challenge

Celtic's youth side will put thoughts of Rangers to one side when they face Livingston in the semi-final of the SFA Youth Cup at Celtic Park tomorrow night, kick off 7pm.

Stevie Frail's side face Rangers in a vital league match on Saturday with the Ibrox kids having already booking their place in the Youth Cup Final with a 1-0 win over St Mirren on Sunday.

Celtic go into tomorrow's match on the back of three straight wins in the league against Falkirk, St Johnstone and Motherwell with Frail warning his players that Livingston will be tough opponents.

He said: "We've had Livingston watched and they have impressed us, they are well worth their place in the semi-finals of this competition.

"They are top of the SFL u-19s and top scorers, in the last round they won away from home against Hibs who are the cup holders.

"Livingston have got a good set-up at youth level and have developed Graham Dorrens, Robert Snodgrass and Leigh Griffiths in recent seasons.

"We've got plenty of talented players as well and they are all looking forward to playing at Celtic Park. We like to play an attacking style and the boys will enjoy making use of the space.

"Everyone coming along can expect to see a good game, we've got a lot of exciting players who are capable of progressing further.

"I don't like singling individuals out because all of the players are capable of making an impact in the game.

"We've got a few players coming back from injury which is good to see. There's a lot of competition for places in the side and that brings out the best in the players."

SPL u-19 league Rangers v Celtic, Saturday, 1pm kick-off Murray Park

Frail's joy with Spence scoring run

Youth boss Stevie Frail was delighted with his side's 2-1 win over high flying Motherwell at Bathgate earlier today.

The SPL u-19's is a a fiercely contested division with a run of four straight wins putting Motherwell in contention for the title.

A double from Greig Spence, taking his tally to five in three games, was enough to give Celtic the points ahead of two crucial games against Livingston in the SFA Youth Cup and Rangers in the league.

"It was an excellent result for us today," Frail admitted. "Motherwell are strong at this level, they had a few lads who've featured in their first team and they've been in good form recently.

"We were well prepared for the match, the players put everything into the game and got their reward. It would have been nice to record a clean sheet but the result was important.

"Everyone is looking forward now to playing Livingston at Celtic Park in the cup, we're hoping to progress into the final and that will give them confidence for the league game with Rangers."

After losing 2-1 to Rangers Frail's side have responded with three back to back wins thanks largely to the goalscoring run of Spence.

The striker was left out for the Rangers game but has bounced back from that decision to show the form that earned him his early season transfer from Alloa.

Frail added: "We discussed with Greig why he was left out against Rangers and he's came back stronger.

"He's upto 12 goals now for the season and is one of the top scorers in the division.

"He's working hard on his game and is putting the chances away.

"The team is playing well as a unit, we're getting a few players back from injury as well as younger ones coming into contention from the u-17 side.

"Callum McGregor scored twice for the 17s on Sunday and came into our side today and didn't look out of place."

SPL u-19 league table

Youth Cup semi-final date set

Celtic's youth side will make their first appearance of the season at Celtic Park against Livingston on Wednesday March 31.

The game kick's off at 7pm and will be played to a finish with the winners meeting St Mirren or Rangers in the Hampden final of the SFA Youth Cup.

To reach this stage of the competition Stevie Frail's side have defeated Threave Rovers and Brora Rangers before the memorable 5-4 win over Dundee United at Tannadice.

On Saturday Celtic travel to face St Johnstone at St Andrews with a 12 noon kick-off.

Spence nets double as youths bounce back

A first half double from Greig Spence helped Celtic's u-19 return to winning ways with a 3-1 win over Falkirk after the disappointment of Saturday's defeat from Rangers.

Spence had suffered the agony of seeing an injury timer shot against Rangers slip over the bar todeny the hoops a draw but showed great character to score from two one-on-ones with the Falkirk keeper.

"I'm pleased for Greig that he scored two goals, one on his left side which we've been working on," coach Stevie Frail said.

"We looked again at the chance against Rangers and we both said that it was a one that he should have put away.

"Maybe coming on as a substitute didn't help him on Saturday but he started today and showed his ability with two well taken strikers goals".

The former Alloa striker was restored to the starting XI alongwith Michael Ordish in place of James Forrest and Patrik Twardzik.

The new look formation saw Ordish and Sean Fitzharris playing on either flank with Spence through the centre in front of a three man midfield comprising of James Keetings, Grant Gallagher and Filip Twardzik

Celtic got off to a bad start when the Falkirk No.7 was given space in the penalty box to collect a cross from the left and drill a low shot beyond Daniele Giordano in the 13th minute.

There were some harsh words exchanged between the players after that goal but seven minutes later Spence equalised after being sent through on goal by Twardzik with the striker showing composure to sent his shot inside the keeper's left hand post from 18 yards out.

After the Falkirk goal Fitzharris swapped from left wing to right with Ordish moving over onto the left.

Keatings was looking impressive in central midfield with the balance between the midfield trio posing Falkirk problems.

Six minutes from the interval Richie Towell put in a typical whiolehearted tackle 40 yards from goal to win the ball, with one pass the ball was sent through to Spence who showed confidence from his earlier goal to net from the edge of the penalty box.

Early in the second half substitute Patrik Twardzik secured the points when he headed home from close range after being set up by his brother Filip.

TEAM: Giordano; Towell, Gallagher, Hughes, Lowden; F Twardzik, G Gallagher, Keatings; Ordish (P Twardzik 56), Spence (Jones 70), Fitzharris

Frail lifts youths for Falkirk clash

Stevie Frail has spent the last two days lifting his dejected players after Saturday's 2-1 defeat from Rangers.

Celtic's u-19 side are back in action tomorrow against Falkirk with a 1pm kick off at Barrafield attempting to return to winning ways in the race for the title.

Frail's side still have to face Rangers at Murray Park but after Saturday's defeat the youth boss has had to use a mix of constructive criticism and motivation on his players.

He said: "The players heads were down after the match, their trying to take in what we are saying and all that they can hear from the next dressing room is their music blaring and a laugh and joke. Fine.

"We'll pick the players up and use experiences that we've had before. In Vilareal during the summer Liverpool won the cup against us, they were bouncing and our guys were distraught.

"We learned from that and took positives and we'll do the same again.

"There's a lot of the season still to go but we'll concentrate on Falkirk first of all. It's important to pick ourselves up and take three points from that before looking ahead.

"We have a game at Murray Park to come and that's one that we believe we are well equipped to go and win."

Saturday's defeat was a familiar story of losing to Rangers despite having the bulk of possession.

Chances however were at a premium against a well organised Rangers defence who knew how to defend in depth and secure their 18 yard box.

Substitute Bahrudin Atajic bravely scored the Celtic goal but picked up an ankle injury as he landed that saw him limp out of the match having only been on the pitch for 15 minutes.

Atajic was signed from Malmo in the summer with his strikers instinct impressing Frail.

The Celtic coach added: "Bahrudin is a clever player, you can see that in the areas that he takes up and he was very brave for his goal.

"It was probably one of the few real crosses that we put in, he got across the goalkeeper well, and put in a good header.

"He's only 16, he showed as soon as he came to the club that he is a good player, now we need to try and get him a bit fitter and upto the demands of Scottish football."

Looking back at the performance against Rangers Frail added: "We know that we have to degend better, it's not always going to be silky soccer, you need to grind out results at times.

"I felt that we were the better footballing side but it's about winning games as well. Rangers had a plan, they worked hard, got two goals that we're disappointed with that, we'll need to work on them.

"In terms of possession we controlled the game but we need to make sure that we are switched on at the back.

"Although we had possession we didn't force their 'keeper into making many saves, we were disapointed with our deliveries from set-pieces.

"Overall it's disappointing but we have a big game on Tuesday against Falkirk, we're still at the top of the league and only lose that if Rangers win their game in hand."


SPL u-19 table

Youth team face Rangers test on Saturday

Celtic's youth side face Rangers for the first time this season on Saturday at Airdrie's Excelsior Stadium, kick-off 1pm.

Stevie Frail's side are currently four points ahead of Rangers who have a game in hand with just five points seperating the top five teams.

Celtic won 2-1 away at Kilmarnock on Saturday with Frail and his players looking forward to the fixture in which both sides are judged.

The Celtic coach said: "We're going into the match on the back of a win. We won't need to build the players up for a game against Rangers.

"We go into the game at the top of the league and we need to make sure that we stay there.

"Everyone knows how important a Celtic-Rangers game is, we need to beat Rangers, they have a good squad and we'll have to be at our best to beat them.

"Hopefully we can get a good week's prepartion in on the grass at Barrafield, the surface is excellent and that gives us the chance to work on a lot of things."
SPL u-19 table

Wonder goal from Keatings keeps Celtic youths on top

by Joe McHugh A wonder goal from James Keatings earned Celtic a win over Kilmarnock to keep the u-19s at the top of the table.

Stevie Frail's side dominated the match throughout but missed a catalogue of chances that almost allowed the home side to take a point.

Johny Marsden's first half header was cancelled out midway through the second half but a 25 yarder from Keatings ensured that Celtic took all three points.

Frail said: "We played well in a lot of areas but went to sleep for their goal.

"It was a good win for us, we've played a lot of really good football but sometimes you have to play against the conditions and the pitch wasn't easy.

"We did a lot of good things, we'll get them on the training ground this week and will be working on our finishing.

"It was an attacking formation that we put out today, we had two up front, two wide attacking midfielders and Grant Gallagher in midfield allowed Filip Twardzik to push further forward."

Gallagher moved into midfield and was replaced at right-back by Curtis Jones, in attack Johny Marsden partnered Greig Spence with Richie Towell on international duty with Ireland and Darren McCauley injured.

The pitch wasn't the best but was certainly playable at the Kilwinning Sports Centre with small sided girls football and a driving range surrounding the pitch. 

Celtic's attacking line up saw them take the game to the homeside with Keatings prominent on the left and Fitzharris impressing on the right flank.

In 22 minutes Celtic took the lead when Marsden powered an impressive header over the home 'keeper from Keatings inviting cross.

"We spoke in training through the week that we hadn't scored many goals like that so it was very pleasing", Frail added.

"Johny attacked the ball well and finished it well, James Keatings put in a really good delivery."

Celtic really should have been further in front before the interval but were let down by poor finishings.

Kilmarnock were barely able to mount an attack on the Celtic goal but despite having the bulk of possession and creating numerous chances Celtic went in at the break one goal ahead.

Five minutes into the second half Twardzik rattled the crossbar from a 25 yard free kick.

Spence and Marsden were creating good openings but unable to find the net with the fear of an equaliser for the home side realised in the 68th minute when a defensive misunderstanding allowed the Kilmarnock No 7 to net from 15 yards out.

Any thoughts of a repeat of last week's draw with Hamilton were dispelled four minutes later with a spectacular goal from Keatings.

After cutting in from the left flank an attempted pass to Twardzik was blocked by a Kimarnock midfielder. With space and options limited Keatings let rip with a powerful shot at goal that left the Killie 'keeper helpless as the ball flew into the net.

 "It was a special goal," Frail smiled. "James picked the ball up 25 yards out and struck it fantastically well into the top corner.

"We deserved the points, we created a lot of chances which is pleasing and we'll need to work on our finishing through the week."

After going in front Bahrudin Atajic and Patrik Twardzik replaced Marsden and Spence with Atajic having a goal disallowed for offside five minutes after coming on as a substitute.

Rangers drew 0-0 at home to Dundee United leaving Celtic four points ahead of the Ibrox side ahead of next Saturday's Celtic-Rangers game, Rangers do have a game in hand.

STARTING TEAM: Giordano; Jones, Hughes, D Gallagher, Lowden; Fitzharris (Ordish 87), G Gallagher, F Twardzik, Keatings; Marsden ( P Twardzik 75), Spence ( Atajik 75): SUBS, Fairley, Feruz, Chalmers, McGregor
FINISHING TEAM: Giordano, Jones, Hughes, D Gallagher, Lowden; Ordish, G Gallagher, F Twardzik, Keatings; P Twardzik, Atajik

Celtic's double chasing u-19 side

After escaping from Dundee United with a 5-4 win Celtic's u-19 side remain on course for the league and cup double.

Winning isn't the be all and end all of youth football but at u-19 level developing good habits and a winning

mentality is essential if players are to develop into first team material.

Despite the euphoria of yesterday's dramatic comeback coach Stevie Frail will be studying the full match, warts and all, as he prepares his side for Saturday's league match at home to Hamilton Accies.

He said: "It would be an easy excuse to put our first half performance down to rustiness (the youth's hadn't played a competitive match in two months) but we're not giving them any excuses. They know that they didn't play well and can do better.

"We asked for the character side at half time and that's what they gave us. We need to do better and in the second half we were terrific.

"At half time and then ten minutes into the second half we were out of the cup. We know we made a lot of mistakes, if we are being totally honest we didn't play anything like we can.

"There are things for us to work on but sticking with the positives we're delighted to be in the semi-finals.

"We got there not by playing silky football but by getting the sleeves up, working as a group and when they put that Celtic jersey on they know how they need to react because we want to be in everything. In the second half the players were big enough and strong enough to stand up to that."

Goalkeeper Andy Kennedy had a difficult time yesterday but pulled off a great block at 4-4 just before Filip Twardzik's winning goal.

Frail added: "We highlighted Andy in the dressing room after the game, he had a terrific save at a crucial time and he needs to take the credit for that.

"He's a good goalkeeper, he'll suffer a little bit, he'll take a knock to his confidence but we'll get around that. He had a great save at 0-0 and again late on.

"Although we went up the park and scored goals he kept us in it at the back."

Dubliner Richie Towell was moved from right-back into central midfield and was delighted to be part of a dramatic win despite so many changes being made to the side that played before the winter break.

He said: "I've never been involved in a game like that- it was crazy but great to get a result in the end.

"When the final goal went in it was a great feeling. Their supporters were giving us some stick, there was a lot going on and getting into semi-finals was fantastic.

"It was good to play in an SPL stadium with a bit of a crowd.

"We got slaughtered at half-time by the manager and we deserved it. Stevie, Chris (McCart) and Tommy (McIntyre) gave us a rollicking, we were terrible in the first half.

"United got the next goal but that gave us the kick up the backside that we needed to go and get the victory.

"A few new players came into the team and that showed the quality we have throughout the squad.

"It's great to have a good squad and hopefully we can now go all the way. We feel that we are the best team at this level, it shows in our results.

"Even if we are getting beat we have the spirit to come back. Hopefully no matter who we get in the semis we can get the win."

FULL MATCH REPORT: DUNDEE UTD 4-5 CELTIC

EVENING HERALD REPORT ON ABERDEEN MATCH

SPL U-19 LEAGUE TABLE

Full match report: Dundee United 4-5 Celtic- Twardzik is the goal hero

by Joe McHugh Celtic's u-19 side showed great character to recover from being 4-1 down to beat Dundee United 5-4 to book a place in the semi final's of the SFA Youth Cup.

Filip Twardzik was the 88th minute hero to clinch the tie with Greg Spence, substitute Sean Fitzharris and two goal James Forrest also on the scoresheet.

Stevie Frail's side looked dead and buried when the homeside went 4-1 up early in the second-half but inspired by Fitzharris and Forrest switching to the left wing Celtic refused to give up and were rewarded in the end.

Even allowing for the fact that they hadn't played a competitive game in two months it was a below par first-half performance from Celtic that United capitalised on to go in front.

Frail admitted: "We just didn't turn up for the first half and that was a real disappointment. We started sloppily then scored the first goal, lost an equaliser and that set us back.

"To be 3-1 down at half-time was a real sickener but it was all that we deserved. We had to rally them at half-time and told them that the next goal was all important!

"It was important because after going 4-1 down we could have gone one way or the other. Thankfully they dug in to win, I'm really pleased with them and proud of their performance."

There were wholesale changes to the defence with only Declan Gallacher playing in his usual role in the centre alongside captain Matt Hughes returning from injury.

Grant Gallacher moved over to right-back with Jordon Lowden replacing Kieron Brennan at left back in front of Andy Kennedy who took over in goals from Danielle Giordano.

Richie Towell moved from right back to centre midfield alongside former Derry City man Darren McCauley who was making his competitive debut. Twardzik started in front of the midfield with the usual forward selection of Forrest on the right, James Keatings on the left and Greg Spence through the centre.

In the eighteenth minute Celtic created their first chance of the day when Forrest and Twardzik opened up the home defence but Forrest's cross from the left was just too high for Spence in the six yard box.

Three minutes later Celtic went in front when United keeper Marc McCallum failed to hold a low drive from Lowdon with Spence perfectly placed to tuck away the rebound.

Unfortunately the lead only lasted two minutes with Kennedy at fault as Ross Smith outjumped him to a header in the six yard box following a cross from the left.

Within ten minutes Celtic managed to lose two more goals with Scott Allen powering in a great shot from 18 yards out before Dale Hilson shook off the Celtic defence before firing his low shot past Kennedy at the keeper's near post.

Celtic did come back into the match as the half closed with Keatings heading wide from six yards out following a cross from Declan Gallacher after the home side had failed to clear a corner from Forrest on the left.

For the second half Celtic made one change with Fitzharris replacing Lowden. Fitzharris moved into right midfield with Forrest swapping over to the left and Twardzik dropping to left-back.

It looked to be all over in the 52nd minute when Michael Lee chipped Kennedy from 25 yards but two minutes later Fitzharris pulled a goal back when he netted on the half volley after Declan Gallacher nodded down a long throw from Towell.

Celtic were back in the game now with a fighting chance with the time wasting of the home side galvanising Frail's side with Fitzharris's direct running upsetting the United back four.

Fitzharris was at the heart of the action in the 64th minute when his shot was parried by McCallum with Forrest happy to net from the rebound.

United captain Smith was substituted suffering from cramp while Celtic sent on striker Johny Marsden to replace McCauley as they chased an equaliser.

Twardzik failed to make the most of a couple of inswinging free kicks from the right delivered with his left foot but he was to make ammends for that spectacularly before the end!

United coach Stevie Campbell was getting increasingly anxious as his side dropped deeper and deeper with his fears realised in the 86th minute when Forrest netted from a loose ball in the box although Spence was hovering around and attempting to put in a claim for the goal.

The homeside could have been back in front in the 87th minute but Kennedy produced a good block as the United bench screamed for a penalty which required the intervention of the referee before the corner could be taken.

Celtic broke quickly from the corner with Forrest releasing the ball to Twardzik as four Celtic players raced across the halfway line. Twardzik teed up Marsden for a shot at goal but when the keeper blocked the substitute's shot Twardzik kept his cool to drill the ball low into the net before being mobbed by celebrating team-mates.

After recent events it was a relief to see Celtic hold out through five minutes of additional time with Frail delighted by the attitude shown by his players.

He said: "We know that we have got good footballers but when you come to tough places like this you have to battle and scratch.

"When you wear a Celtic jersey, whatever level it is at, teams want to beat you. A lot of our players are aware of that having come through the system at the club from an early age.

"At 4-1 they rolled their sleeves up, got the second goal, and although there was still a long way to go they came back to win 5-4 and I was very pleased for them."

CELTIC: Kennedy, G Gallacher, Hughes, D Gallacher, Lowdon; Forrest, Towell, McCauley, Twardzik; Forrest, Spence, Keatings SUBS Fitzharris (Lowdon 46) Marsden (McAuley69)

Goals: Spence 21, Fitzharris 54, Forrest 64 & 86, Twardzik 88

Last gasp Twardzik gives Celts 5-4 win to book semi-final place

Filip Twardzik was the last gasp hero as Celtc's u-19 side came from 4-1 down to beat Dundee United 5-4 in the quarter-final of the SFA Youth Cup.

Celtic had taken the lead through Geg Spence in the 21st minute but found themselves 4-1 down early in the 

second half before the comeback of the season.

Substitute Sean Fitzharris pulled a goal back in the 54th minute with James Forrest netting ten minutes later.

Forrest equalised in the 86th minute but before extra-time could be contemplated Twardzik, who had played the second-half at left-back scored to put Celtic into the semi finals.

CELTIC: Kennedy, G Gallacher, Hughes, D Gallacher, Lowdon; Forrest, Towell, McCauley, Twardzik; Forrest, Spence, Keatings SUBS Fitzharris (Lowdon 46) Marsden (McAuley69)

Goals: Spence 21, Fitzharris 54, Forrest 64 & 86, Twardzik 88
                                                       CLICK HERE for full match report

Celtic u-19s face Tannadice cup test

Celtic's u-19 side face their toughest test of the season on Sunday (kick-off 2pm) when they face Dundee United at Tannadice in the SFA Youth Cup.

Stevie Frail's side haven't played a competitive match in two months and have lost just once this season in the league- away to United in October.

The Tannadice side moved into joint top place in the u-19 league with a 3-2 win over Hamilton Accies and will be confident of going through on home soil.

Frail's side had to make do with a friendly against Dunfermline after their league match at Motherwell was postponed but the hoops coach is confident that his side can progress.

He said: “It's a bit unfortunate that our first game back is a cup match but we'll just get on with it and are looking forward to the match.

“We'll have a good look at the players and have an extra day to prepare with the game on Sunday.

“The players have trained hard, we had two games down south and had a bounce game against Dunfermline, hopefully that will be enough.

“Everyone is dying to get involved and play again, hopefully they can take us into the semi-finals.

“There's nothing that we can do now about the league match against Dundee United.

“We were on top for a long time then lost it in the last five minutes. We are aware of what Dundee United can do, we watched them beat Hamilton 4-2 earlier this week so we know their strengths.”

Any non-loved up Celtic fans in the Tayside area looking for some non-romantic action on Sunday could do worse than take a look at James Forrest, the Twardzik brothers, Greg Spence, Richie Towell and the other young Celts.

Anyone between East Kilbride and Tannadice looking to go to the match can contact myself.

Youths face Motherwell on Saturday

Celtic's table-topping under-19 side return to action on Saturday with an away match against Motherwell at Airdrie's Excelsior Stadium.

The 11 o'clock kick off will allow anyone going along to the match the chance to watch most of the first team match at Hamilton which kicks-off at 12.30.

Celtic start the second half of the season two points clear of Hamilton and enjoyed a 4-1 win over the Fir Park side earlier in the season.

It's six weeks since the u-19's last outing but the break has been put to good use by Stevie Frail and his coaching team.

Frail explained: "Since the snow cleared we've been able to have two weeks full training and the boys are looking sharp.

"We've managed to get a few players back from injury and we're looking forward to playing again.

"Ideally you want to have a good balance between training and playing, we've spent a lot of time on the training ground and now we've got the chance to get back into action.

"We managed to get a couple of games in down south and they went well, now we're looking to pick up where we left off."

In the last eight of the SFA Youth Cup Celtic travel to Tannadice to meet Dundee United on February 14 with the kick-off time still to be confirmed.

SPL u-19 table