Old Firm derby ends without a score
By: j | February 15th, 2009
The Old Firm battle for top of the SPL ended in a cautious nil draw leaving the table unchanged. It was very clear from the get-go that Gordon Strachan’s tactical plan was the thwart the Rangers efforts going forward while not pressing in the attack. Naturally this was a wise move from a managerial consideration, given his sides less that top form of late and a draw would maintain this Celtic two point lead. Of particular note the match marked the Old Firm debut of John Fleck. At seventeen years of age he is the youngest combatant in the derby in twenty-five years.
However beyond that notable event, the first half had little attacking vision to note with the only possible mention being Scott McDonald missing a close range header fifteen minutes after the start. Following that both ‘keepers had little to deal and had to do their best not to nod off before the break. The second half was hardly a flurry of creativity and attacking guile as most efforts were either a low probability or simply a pithy attempt. Thankfully the match concluded as a draw because neither side was truly deserving of the three points.
Visually the match left a great deal to be desired and although that is of little issue to myself, the Rangers lacked the intent to break through. The Celtic approach should have been expected and in-fact was an intelligent tactical position but Walter Smith should have expected this and looked to rip the victory away from them. In the library of Old Firm derbies this one is easily forgotten in what was a highly disappointing affair.
Category: Team News
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