Celtic 2-1 Ajax: Bhoys Keep Champions League Prospects Alive With Vital Win

by Crip Cooke

Celtic lived to fight another day in the Champions League, as the Scottish Premier League champions celebrated an important win against Ajax in Group H. The hosts took the lead just before half-time after being awarded a controversial penalty. James Forrest scored from the spot to break the deadlock in first-half injury time. Early into the second half, midfielder Beram Kayal doubled the side's advantage after capitalising from a deflection. Ajax scored a late goal through Lasse Schone, but it turned out to be nothing more than consolation for the Dutch side as Celtic earned a vital victory to keep themselves in contention of qualifying from their group. The result sees Celtic in third place, just two points off AC Milan in second place, and four points off last season's Champions League semi-finalists Barcelona. In a game of few clear cut chances, manager Neil Lennon was delighted his side once again delivered at home, and has now called on the Bhoys to mount a repeat performance when they travel to Holland for the away leg. Victory in their next Champions League clash will keep them in contention of qualification, but defeat could all but seal their fate depending on other results.

Contributor
Contributor

Crippy Cooke, 23, is a freelance Football Writer contributing to What Culture. He's had work featured on Zoo, MSN, London 24, The Telegraph, The Huffington Post, and was recently named Writer of the Year on FTBpro - while also a nominee for Best Male Blog in the Football Blogging Awards.