ICT 0-2 Celtic

Last updated : 17 March 2005 By Kevin Smith
Celtic took another step towards regaining the SPL title last night, with a comfortable 2-0 win away to Inverness Caledonian Thistle. A second half strike by Craig Bellamy was added to later by Alan Thompson who scored from the penalty spot to secure the Celtic victory.

The game was the first of Celtic's two games in hand over Rangers, and the victory means we sit just a point behind them, with another game still to play. So far, everything seems to be going to plan.

John Hartson and Alan Thompson, both rumoured to be doubts for the game, made it. Stan Varga missed out through illness but in stepped Stefane Henchoz, who strolled through the game.

It was my first trip up to Inverness and as I expected, the stadium couldn't cope with the numbers of the away support. The entire Celtic support were ushered through two small turnstiles and fans were getting impatient as the game kicked off and we were all locked out. This forced the police to open the gates to anybody and everybody, I never even had my ticket stub looked at.

The first half was a scrappy affair with not much chances for either side. Aiden McGeady looked to be carrying the form which won him Man of the Match last Saturday, and there was more to come from the youngster later.

At half time, the game had 0-0 written all over it. I felt that if we didn't get an early goal in the second half we were going to be in for a frustrating night, where nothing would go right for us.

Celtic came out attacking in the second period, and Alan Thompson and Craig Bellamy both made ICT goalkeeper Mark Brown move to save their attempts at goal.

Rab Douglas caused a few hearts to stop, it surely is only a matter of time before he does something stupid and costs us another game.

Aiden McGeady was beginning to lighten up the game and he linked with Craig Bellamy for Celtic's opener. McGeady done brilliantly to beat several players, and linked with McNamara and Bellamy, who struck the ball into the net.

With around six minutes remaining, Bellamy was brought down in the Inverness 18 yard box, and Celtic were awarded a penalty. Alan Thompson took care of business to secure the Celtic points.

Overall, it was a fantastic trip and the Celtic support were absolutley brilliant. It looks as though the team want this title just as much as the fans do and we are showing how well we can play.

Onwards to Dundee United on Saturday, where we can see ourselves go top of the league once again.

Celtic: Douglas, Balde, Laursen, McNamara, Henchoz, Lennon, Petrov, Thompson, McGeady, Hartson (Beattie), Bellamy

Come On The Hoops Moment To Remember: The Celtic supporters' reindition of 'Is This The Way To Armirillo.'

Come On The Hoops Moment To Forget: Nothing, it was a great day.