Astana 1 – 1 Celtic , A Fans View.

The build up to this game was all about the defence. Too many injuries and one too many liabilities.

However Celtic came out strong, the first 15 minutes was all about Celtic and their possession. The team looked strong going forward and sensible at the back.

That said, just after than strong period we had a lapse in concentration which resulted in a square ball across the goal line, put behind by the last man Lustig, from there, a corner which allowed Astana a free header and it was one nil to Astana through Logvinenko. 19 minutes in and the doubt of our defence was creeping in. 

The main attacking play for Celtic only seemed to come from Roberts on the right wing who looked a class on his own. Unfortunately, leading into half time we still didn’t have a shot on target.

Dembele and Griffiths looked to partner up well but couldn’t get that away goal. 

O’Connell and Tierney looked solid, Lustig had lapses and Efe, as usual looked lost half the game. 

A few changes happened which seemed to change the game. Dembele came off for Biton which I felt unfair as Dembele, although had not scored, didn’t play bad. 

Armstrong went off for Forest which seemed to make a big difference. It was clear that the gaffer had put him in with the instruction to run. 

McGregor went off for Rogic in the 77th and Rogic linked well with Forest.

A minute later in the 78th minute, Griffiths scored, taking a first touch off of a Roberts assist. Brilliant! And although the goal was a well struck finish, it was the assist which made the day. 

Ball running towards the byline and Astana were trying to walk the ball out, Roberts didn’t give up and with some quick footwork game a nutmeg from the line, touch to Griffiths and it was 1 all. 

The rest of the game was end to end and a bit of gripe at the end from a disgruntled Astana player taking a pop at Tierney on the line whist awaiting the ball for a through in. 

All in all a great result to take us to the home leg. Can’t wait!!!! 

Hail hail!!