Ross County v Celtic Sportscene

Eight big, big final. We will be disappointed if we don't get

through. They will be disappointed. It is about to kick-off. Ross

County has pulled off a major cup Ross County are in the Scottish Cup

final, what more could you want? They played beautifully and two

brilliant goals. A fantastic goal 17 months on and Ross and County

are two words which it Celtic fans nightmares after that shocker. The

pair of them are reunited in Dingwall tonight in the third round

of the Scottish communities League Cup and it is coming up right here.

The man whose team were killed off counties Cup dream. You have had a

few tussles with them haven't you? We will remember this stage of the

competition last year when they gave you eight tough match at

Victoria Park. Yes. Banks played that night. There was extra time.

It was a tough fixture tonight but hopefully we will play quite well

against them. Could lightning strike twice? It is a tough

question. It is a tough place to go. Ross County may as well go out and

enjoy themselves but they will have to get one of the big games and if

they can play at their very best. It is a small part and everyone

will get in and close to the Celtic players and they have to believe in

themselves. That will not be easy. Satie are looking to bounce back --

Celtic were in a good position in the first half. Yes, it was very

It was a quality finish and the goalkeeper had no chance. I'm sure

he had nightmares because this wasn't the greatest of shops but it

went right through his arm. What impact you have this do have on

Celtic tonight? We will find out very soon. I don't think they

played very well and there weren't really up for it in the second half.

They have to be up for this one. expected big changes from Neil

Lennon and we have them. Five of I don't think this is a weakened

side. He is putting out a team to win this. He has to go and win this.

Every manager knows you have to try to win every single competition.

That is not a weakened side but there are players who have not

played a lot. It is an opportunity for them and they must look upon it

that way. Let us look at the Ross Five of the players started that

famous County Cup semi-final against Celtic 17 months ago. And

Let us get the thoughts of the two managers now. Firstly, it will be

We will get to those interviews as soon as we can. I wonder if Derek

Adams is wearing his lucky grey school jumper. It was an amazing

day, wasn't it? It was extraordinary. Very cute -- few

people saw it coming. They were absolutely up for it and it was

there semi Cup final. Derek got the tactics right that day. If you get

the players up for it and get the tactics right, you have a chance.

There were a few Ex Celtic names in that team there which sometimes

makes a bit of the difference because they may want to prove

themselves. If you look at players like Lawson and Queen in particular,

they play right in the centre, they will be important but they will

want to say, by the way, we were at Celtic. Were it to come down to

purely quality, there would be no doubt about the outcome but these

things don't necessarily go that way. No. Five or six of the players

played in the final and if you look at players like Gardyne who has a

lot to prove and great skill, he could become elusive. If he is

running at people, he can cause problems so, Celtic, quality - yes,

any day long - but they have to work hard to and that result.

Celtic will want to get a goal early. The longer it goes without

them getting on the mark, the belief will gather within Ross

County, won't it? Yes. A lot of Celtic fans didn't want to see this.

But if you create opportunities, they have players who will score

goals. You will almost get -- almost certainly get crosses in

from them. I absolutely expect him to create chances this evening.

Particularly Mulgrew. The quality of crosses is fantastic from him.

Were you surprised that it wasn't Stokes and Hooper on Sunday? Yes,

but sometimes manages go back to what worked for them before.

Sometimes, as a manager, you go back to what you think is best for

the day. Stokes is a fantastic goalscorer and really starts at

Ibrox. Maybe Neil feels that Georgios Samaras could do a better

job. On Sunday, I don't think it worked particularly well for them

but with Stokes as a goalscorer, I expect it loads of chances for

Celtic tonight and expect the defence to have to cope with it.

The big shopping is ancient history but what will they be nervous at

this stage tonight? You're the one who told me there were so few

players left from that team said today. I didn't realise that. They

shouldn't have any psychological effect. It is history that they

know about in the past, possibly, but it will have no effect

individually. The central midfield in Celtic, I like Ki Sung-yueng --

Ledley a lot. Looking at the Celtic team, they have a lot going forward

but defensively, they want to get at Majstorovic. It could be a very

open game. I certainly hope so and I expect it will be because Adams

will want to have a go at them. The let us see if we can hear from the

managers. Firstly, Derek Adams. You have had some intriguing nights

here. A great game ahead? Yes, it is a tremendous night. We have

already played the likes of St Mirren, and he Bernie and. Does

your league form mean anything going into a game against a club

like this? It goes out the door. You have to get up to speed. Celtic

are a very good side. We have players in our side who can pass

the ball. I you concerned there may be a sting in the tail? Of course

we are. After the last two games, we would want to put that behind

them. What will the approach be tonight? Will you take the game to

Celtic? We also have to defend well and we have players in the back who

can open up the defence. Thanks very much.

Neil, what kind of game I you expecting this evening?

conditions might not help. The play beat -- playing surface seems

decent. We are fortunate to have had a midweek game after Sunday so

I am looking for a positive reaction from the side. You had a

trip to Madrid and the Rangers situation at the weekend. How are

the guys? Disappointed after Sunday but now we have to look ahead. We

have another batch of important games coming up and her -- I hope

we play better than we did in the second half on Sunday. That wasn't

us. Do you feel you have something to prove to the fans tonight?

need to get the fans back onside as quickly as possible. We have put a

strong team out tonight and it is a competition we would dearly love to

win. We are not treating Ross County... Best of luck.

How important could the venue be tonight, Peter? It is a tightly

packed ground. You know what it is all about with the fans right on

top of use. Yes and they are passionate fans as well. I think

the Celtic fans will make a lot of noise as well. It is a very good

surface to pass the ball and Celtic will have players who can move and

shift the ball quickly. Neil will be delighted that it is a game

quickly after the Old Firm game. He has to get that out of his system

quickly. As the manager, he will be delighted to get this tonight but

Ross County have players who can cause them problems. It is just

about getting through tonight or do they need to do more than that?

They'd just have to get through. Nobody remembers a cup final or

what happens in the earlier rounds. For Celtic, Craig isn't playing for

Ross County as he has a suspension and he has been in great form so

that is something that will help them. A good surface. I will be

shocked if we don't win it. It is a lovely night in Dingwall. You were

there a year ago. It was the same last year. If Ross County get any

sniffs, they will make it difficult. I'm looking forward to this and I

think there will be goals in it. I think Celtic with what has happened

at the weekend, will be too strong for them. Half-a-dozen of the Ross

County players to start tonight know what it was all about in the

Scottish Cup semi-final last year. They know what it is all about -

beating Celtic. There won't be that amazement when they walkout. They

are at their home ground. There is something about night games, isn't

there? The atmosphere. Special things can happen. It can happen

for Celtic or Ross County but it is funny you talk about the conditions.

We went to the pitch half an hour ago and it was beautiful. Them

players will be they changing their studs and adapting everything

because they didn't expect this. You mention the fact that it is a

night game, you know Hamilton, Hib, St Mirren, they were all night

games that Ross County won, because there is a replay against Hibs, up

to Dingwall and won the match. I think Hamilton was the same, so

Ross County will fancy their chances, they have to make sure

they are still in the game about half-time. Make sure Celtic haven't

got a good lead behind them. More than anything Ross County can do a

good job. Can I say as we await our live coverage of the match, we will

show you high lights of what happened last night, in the

Scottish communities League Cup, including that massive result for

east Fife. But that is at half-time. Let us concentrate on the live

match at Victoria Park in Dingwall. John Robertson is our co

not prepared to go in and get hurt, you are not prepared to win games.

Those were the words of Neil Lennon 529 days ago, Celtic's worst day.

County's best day. Ross County have been drawing too many games

according to their manager, three in their last three, but undefeated

in Fife. There is three ex-Celtic players there. Gardyne started that

Scottish Cup semi. Steven Craig is anywhere near Parkhead when county

knocked them out last April. Stokes and Hooper are back together up

day against Derek Adams than the United came to Dingwall, four

months after beating them in the Scottish Cup Final. It went to

extra time that night. It was similar conditions as well. It is a

bit dreich. Celtic's third game in six days. They look to banish their

Sunday afternoon from memory. Five changes in that team from the side

that lost to Rangers, no Mark Wilson, Scott Brown. John Robertson

had a memorable night with his team last night, knocking Aberdeen out,

where do you see this going? Celtic are huge favourite bus we know that

County have gone Downham den and beat nem this the past. It is going

to be a tough game for Celtic, unless they get the goals early. If

they do, you expect them to kick on. County will be well disciplined and

they will try to put it on the offender there. He catches up a bit

late. He has come in from behind. A trip there on Quinn. It is not what

Celtic want to do early on, to give Celtic the chance to put the ball

in the box. There are plenty up there waiting for it. Celtic have

to be careful. Everyone behind the ball for the visitors. It is a deep

deliverly to -- delivery to the back post area. It is away by Kayal

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who has the armband. There is plenty again waiting for County. It

is Gardyne. A change of pace as couple of weeks into the caretaker

job when he lost to Ross County and he recovered so. We he spoke so

well after it. It was a sthobg everybody at the time that Ross

County, had won well on the day, and Neil basically told everybody

what he thought the Celtic players needed to do, how they needed to go

about it, and the rest of the season they won virtually every

game after that. That led to Neil getting the job. There already a

few nerves tonight. Until you get that goal. It is is a difficult

time. Gary Miller took the free- kick. Looks to me, John, that Ross

County have started better. They have settled better t They have

knocked it about very well. There was a lovely passage of play.

Fraser playing with Boyd and Miller and they knocked in behind the last

ball a wee bit overhead. County can play. They have players who want to

get the ball. Brittain, Gardyne, they will sniff about up front.

These are very comfortable on the ball. If Celtic don't close them

down, these players could hurt you. Victoria Park is packed as we

expected it would be. Plenty up from Glasgow as well. Away to the

will get about. It was a foul. There is no doubt about it. It was

spells at Livingston. He was at Falkirk. Gretna, Dundee. Queen of

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flight club comes to a ground like this against a lower league team.

If you don't get the early goal, the more nervous they will perhaps

become. Certainly the case with the left hand side. Two County

players went for it. He managed to scrape I away. -- it away.

Fitzpatrick and Lawson in the penalty area, having to defend that.

Fitzpatrick a former Motherwell player. He is one of these players,

he was in an out of the team. He has found a place for here he is

playing at left back. He normally played at mild field. He looked the

part early on. What county are doing very well is squeezing the

midfield. When Celtic get it all five midfielders are getting in.

That is why Celtic can't get any was in a 4-0 win at Dunfermline. He

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think that is down to County, if you watch choice you will see

Brittain and Gardyne will get inside the midfield to make Celtic

go to the outside and show where where most of the players can press

can hit them. Found only Boyd. Now the pressure might be on here. It's

a foul on Quinn. He was almost away. Badr El Kaddouri, he has to bring

him down in the end He has tried to get the ball. Quinn has the nick on

it. He has got there. As I say, he just about got the ball. He

certainly got the man first. Again, a chance for County with the

dangerous vyinger, Brittain, who won, could pose Celtic a problem

here. Vigurs is good at the set piece, he has a chance to knock

this one in. They have left full backs Miller and Fitzpatrick to

defend any Celtic counter attack here. A moment more the defence to

be careful on 11 minutes. Vigurs drifting it in. It very nearly

dropped to McMenamin. Mulgrew got Lennon because a Ross County player

won it. First it was Boyd, and I am sure with the height of the Celtic

time will want them to go in. look at bit nervy in defence?

do. The whole team, they look, maybe Sunday's result as knot

knocked their confidence a bit. They are not playing with any great

deal of fluency. They have had one little run. Some of the passes are

eased Michael Fraser. It is as well that Fitzpatrick was covering.

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well. -- Hooper. He has been so reliable since he arrived last

summer. He is a natural born goalscorer. He will get you 10 or

12 goals like that every season. His finish on Sunday was sublime.

He will get more pleasure out of that and the one he scored at Ibrox.

for this one say you would expect county to have a a better chance

here then at somewhere like Camden Park. It is tighter here. And that

should settle the Celtic down but they will need a second gold. --

goal. And that is what Neil Lennon would have wanted. A goal within 15

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goal -- plenty of the ball in the in true Highland style. The picture

is slippery. Kayal has been all over the park. Having a captain's

armband it really means something and I love his energy. It is

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chance for dangerous Mulgrew and met, Derek Adams has been to

County needs something to get the crowd going. A shot at goal, even

if it goes over the bar. At the moment, it has the air of a pre-

is left-footed. That is what County needed to get the crowd at onside.

A wonderful effort and that mood here now will be lifted by that

strike. You can hear it already. Stokes has been spoken to by the

referee because, after that incident as we watch the replay and

it came off the woodwork, there was a coming together of the two at the

halfway line. The referee seems to a... That was silly. That was set -

might Eddie seconds after being told to calm it down. -- that was

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crashed one in and tried a little beginning to feel like a cup-tie.

think it was felt that somebody went over the ball. There is a bit

of needle going on. That was a strong challenge from Stokes, I

think, I originally and a push. A little bit of needle in the game

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doesn't do any harm as long as it start and doesn't looked

comfortable on the ball -- Kelvin. There is a bit of nervousness there.

All five of the County midfield are want him left on the ball. It was

will's send mistake that led to the Majstorovic there. That was a clip

on the back of a heel. It was a poor and cheap foul to give away.

County will be able to knock this one pretty close. Celtic are

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leading thanks to Gary Hooper. He into the final third. -- when they

touchline out of picture. It looks as though there was an arm across

him. Whether it was a strong challenge, I am not sure. El-

Kaddouri is getting a lot of space out here. Make many men is being

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asking a lot of Ledley to force pressure on Matthews. Sliding down

the right hand side. He is not turn to have a go at the fourth

official. I have to say, the assistant referee was standing a

yard away from it and he kept his flag down. If he doesn't know,

nobody else would be in a better position. He cuts across, he has

gone down, he slip, it is a brilliant decision from the

assistant referee, and hopefully, the fourth official can point that

out to Mr Lennon. Bit of a main stay James Forrest in the Celtic

team. He didn't start the Old Firm it out to the red flag for Forest.

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When county come forward they Kaddouri. He was all over Miller as

you know, I'm looking at the style of play. County have gone long a

lot of times. There is two or three or four times they have tried to go

in with a long ball. There was a little spell for five minutes where

they knocked it about. They are good at that. Brittain, Vigurs.

Lawson, Gardyne. They want the ball at their feet. Here is another

free-kick opportunity. Wilson again involved. That is an easy foul

again. He is all over McMenamin. I wouldn't be surprised if they had a

wee hit. In saying that, County have had joy the previous two free-

kicks have both been won by the two centre halfs. Those County fans,

watching on from the shed end. Vigurs goes to the back post. He

has the corner. That is one thing Ross County do have. Vigurs

magnificent delivery. Whips it in pace and power and Brittain is

exactly the same as well. Celtic don't want to be giving too many

set plays away. It is awkward. Boyd won it. Boyd won it easily. Won it

well. He was trying. Celtic is on the main concern I would suggest

for Celtic is set plays. That is gies Boyd won a herd and also grant

Munro. Had him under pressure there. County have certainly got a threat

at the set plays. Two in his last two, Richard Brittain. The man with

the armband for the hosts. Wilson has a foul, challenged by McMenamin.

I think it is going in the book. He is. He certainly caught him late,

there is no doubt about that. Wilson did take it rather easily.

He gave McMenamin half a chance of getting there, but it looks like he

gave him a clatter on the ankle with half a chance. He caught him

very late. Again an easy decision, a correct decision from Callum

Murray. He is clearly in a bit of bother Kelvin Wilson. The young

Norwegian centre half is on the bench if needed. He was an all

right centre half there sitting to the left of Neil Lennon. Especially

on Sunday Neil Lennon would have been delighted to have a late 20,

early 30ish something there, go on and be powerful and strong.

Prepared to be hurt. Well Celtic with a 1-0 lead thanks to that man,

Gary Hooper. This is how it happened. That is the right place

at the right time. That at the time seemed to settle some nevers for

Celtic. But they have been jittery since then. -- nerves. After County

had the better of opening exchange, we thought we setted down. Since

then they have not really tested Fraser since a lit shout for a

penalty, but not much in it. If anything County have had a couple

of decent efforts since then to try and get back in the game. Neil

Lennon nose his team need a second goal. Two other cup ties under way.

Eight kick offs Falkirk, Ayr against Hearts, all tonight's teams

looking to join Dundee United Kilmarnock and some team from Fife.

Can't think who they are! John Robertson's east Fife. Into the

quarterfinals. The moment Celtic have one foot in that stage. That

fortunate that he slipped. For half a second he looked as if he could

get on the that. As you say, it was have a bit of that. To be fair, the

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they dealt with it really well on channels sto,. Difficult to

dephenomenon against. He has good movement. Stokes and Hooper move

about well. They go into areas defenders don't want to go into.

They are a wonderful combination. back with Fraser. Eight minutes to

go until half-time. It is a fantastic place Victoria mark. Few

and far between these kind of ground. It has been given away by

Celtic. Brittain. Just get a good ball in, keep his eye on it, it was

swerving away from him. Off side flag was up in any case Not one of

Brittain's better crosss, he has great quality, I said earlier on,

he will look and try and arc that one. What he is trying to do, I

don't think that is off side to be fair. That is the area, they have

been trying to drop it on the six yard line for the County player to

attack it. The lines man may have got it wrong, but no great problem.

There are no seats in the house, think they must be Celtic fans but

you can only see that goal. Good point! County are under a bit of

pressure. Celtic have won this competition 14 time, that is 13

behind Rangers record of 27. Just lost the final last years after

extra time. That was a game that there as well. Finds James Forrest.

Great block by Munro. Celtic will come again. Badr El Kaddouri to

Hooper. Here is the Moroccan once is County's only problem they knock

it long. It is only Brittain that sup there. That free-kick looked as

if it was coming a mile away. Quinn on it. Difficult given the rain

Kayal just blocked him right off the ball there. Maybe showing him

what happened a couple of minutes in the First Division. They have

played 12 out of the last 13 seasons in the First Division. They

are a high land league team pre94/95. They are looking for a

leveller before the break. That is is a free-kick is it? McMenamin is

not getting I a big shout from McMenamin and the County supporters

as well. McMenamin straight back up. The team-mates didn't look

concerned at the decision, that is, Plenty glooding back in numbers.

Matthews picking up. -- Flooding. Forest. Hooper. It is is a great

touch through. Good save Michael Fraser. Had to look lively. Plenty

under the cosh a bit, these last few minutes. They could be in a bit

of bother here. Hooper, two County players round him. Eventually it is

cleared by Quinn. That is the best bit of play Celtic have shown

tonight. I think Stokes maybe took it on the wrong foot. It is great

move. A touch for forest. Slips him in. Hooper, there is a wonderful

touch. They should make take with it with his right foot. Gives

Fraser half a chance. If he takes his first with the right he gains

an extra second but a good save the end of the first half for

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time they pass it quickly and short, ball from Fitzpatrick. Brittain

picked up and knocked down. Two quick passes. Bang, bang. A

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comfortable save for James forester. on that on his near post. It was a

wonderful ball from Kayal. When the ball it is wet, you have to make

first half and it has been a really good first half. Celtic are in

front. Gary Hooper, at Celtic's poacher, is always in the team. He

was right on the line to knock the Ledley header into the goal. Is

settled any pre-match nerves they may have head and the hangover from

Sunday. County have hit the post as Celtic are ahead but Ross County

have turned it into a competitive cup-tie we thought it might be.

Peter Houston is here as well. Towards the end of the first half,

County were making it more uncomfortable. Yes. When some

crosses were coming into the box, Celtic didn't like it. They have

started to pass the ball well. It is slippery out there but they have

passed the ball well. Celtic are doing the same up until the last

third. They need more chances. County have looked uncomfortable at

times as well, especially crosses in from the wide areas. Mulgrew

wide on the left and Forest on the right sex things up. Ross County

lost a goal but there were other opportunities as well. But, well

done Ross County as they realise there is a problem. They have

managed to get more steady in the milked -- midfield but they have a

problem and it is that Colin McMenamin needs help. Wilson and

Majstorovic are up big lad and you have to give him more support.

were looked deeper into this shortly but first let us look back

at what happened last night in the Scottish communities League Cup.

There was drama and one major shock. Backing January, East Fife were

down 6-nail and it seems they put the SPL side ahead and it

looked like that might have been the rebellion crushed but a popped

Matthew park with a humdinger of a strike and East Fife were level at

2-2 -- Mac -- Matthew Part. Then, in East Fife took the lead again.

Robert Sloan made it 3-2. That is how it looked like staying but deep

in injury time, Aberdeen were equalised from the spot and no

goals in extra time. In the penalty shoot-out, East Fife's keeper would

these would be East Fife's night with Mark Ridgers saving three

times and the celebrations for spark - Max part in the Hibs season

took the lead. His pass into the box set up Michael Higdon who

provided just the right finish. 2-1, the score but a slip gave O'Connor

the chance to finish in style. The score, 2-2. In extra-time,

Motherwell did have the ball in the back of the net but the effort was

ruled out for offside. In the penalty shoot-out, the Hibs keeper

saved. Motherwell keeper also saved and in southern -- sudden death,

Brown saved again. Calder would's side went into the last date of the

competition. -- last eight. To just 90 seconds of the game had

been played when a shot hooked over Queen of the South goalkeeper. It

would get worth -- worse as a player was sent off. The first from

the 29 year-old Irishman was a header to make it 2-0 and the

former Doncaster and Notts County striker kept his composure before

making it 3-0. Heffernan has made a real impact at

night for the home side and 5-0 was the final score as kill my neck

dived into the quarter-finals -- a big -- executed to perfection but

not so good when it ends up in your own net. Adams put them 1-0 down.

This was the sublime after the ridiculous with a perfect strike.

2-0 this call for St Mirren. -- the Dundee United opening the scoring

their second goal and Jon Daly had a strike 14 minutes from time and

One -- one of the biggest things for me last night was winning the

match. Airdrie were spirited and worked very hard. The result of the

night was at Pittodrie for the side bottom of the Second Division. What

a blow to Aberdeen. Heffernan have eight goals this season. You are

right, you cannot take it away from East Fife. To score three goals

away from home against an SPL side is absolutely brilliant and holding

their nerve through the penalties. The quality of the goals got me.

Looking at Parks play was top- quality. They can be proud of

themselves. Two other third-round tie is going on tonight and we will

give you the latest scores for Any changes in those and we will

bring them to you. Let us have a look back on our first half at

Victoria Park. Celtic are one up after half-time. It was a El-

area and the goalkeeper looked all over the place. He Miss Read it. It

with his partner because the ball comes across from Stokes and is

headed back into the area. Probably Gary Miller could have put a foot

on it and clear did so he will be disappointed with that. The crosses

Gary Hooper scored but what County could not afford to concede late in

the second half and this was a good save. It was. The best piece of

playing the game from Celtic. That was great goalkeeping there. He got

his foot out. He did everything right. You expect a bit more from

Celtic but it is because Ross County have killed the space in the

mid- field so Celtic have not been able to pay the nice, neat passing

football but when they get spaces, it shows you the quality play.

Celtic will be disappointed they haven't scored again so it is still

twitchy for them? I'd give credit You have to look at what is against

them and Ross County have defended stoutly since the goal. They have

tried to pass and get Gardyne on the ball. The only is -- thing is

that Colin McMenamin needs help at the top. It is difficult to hold it

and get it under control and you need midfield players to support

When County asked a question of the Celtic defence they got the right

answer. Total mix up between Wilson and Majstorovic. How close was

Michael Gardyne to make it 1-1? Great technical stuff. The

goalkeeper punched it. He gets up behind it. That is an invitation to

have a strike. It is great technique to keep hold of that and

keep it down. It is is a good ball. Counsty started putting the a ball

in the box. Sell trick haven't coped well with it. Quinn on the

half-time, it was not dealt with properly. That puts it back in the

box again and a shot at goal cold easily in the circumstances with

the conditions being so wet skitted into the -- skidded into the net.

Has it taken a while thor them to believe a shock is possible? Not by

the start Celtic made but that plan worked so well. What happens

naturally is you fall back. As a group they fell back, so the four

midfielders, the five midfielders as it were, they fell back a bit

too close to the back-line. When that happens you are going to put

yourself under pressure, losing the goal, that had a wee effect on the

confidence as well. Early on we noticed that Ross County wanted to

play from the back. They wanted to pass it from the back. They looked

better than when they are lumping along. You lump it long you are

going to have to do well to hold up against the two big centre halfs.

Adaptation also have to be made in the second half. Neil Lennon will

be happy, with the attitude his team showed right from kick off.

Yes they have started well. As I say, big game for Celtic after the

weekend, and Neil will be looking for a reaction, I think he has got

a reaction, because the players are working hard. Think the most

important thing for Celtic is if they can get that second goal.

Normally when you play against lower league side, it puts them

down a wee bit, and it is very difficult, it's a mountain to climb.

So Celtic will look to get that second goal and take the game from

there. One problem is getting support up to McMenamin. They are

working hard, they are trying to stop Celtic playing but when they

launch it up to men it is difficult to get bodies round him. It is

catch-22 for them. The reason they are doing well is because they have

crowded the midfield. As soon as you stick another man in midfield

and put him up front you give the Celtic players a chance. They are

quality players so they will enjoy that space. There comes a time you

have to accept that, you have to go for it and the the best thing is

they have players who can do that. I like Gardyne as a player. He can

run with the ball, he is very direct with the ball, so he is

somebody that can possibly do that and they have got options on the

bench as well. So again, that, I mean, look at the clock, when it

gets to 60 minutes and if it hasn't changed look at the bench. They

will start getting ready. We spoke about Ross County's belief, sell

tinge will want to kill that off. From their point of view, the

longer the game goes on they will put men forward. If Celtic continue

to do probing and passing like they have done, that is what they will

want to do as well, so I think it will be an interesting game, you

know, but as the game goes on at still 1-0 it is an edgy game. I

think that will put men forward and try and get something. You are

either in it or out it. Derek Adams will feel they are right in it the

way they finished that first half. He is right to feel that way. We

were talking about his tactics but Neil Lennon is, all the foe us but

-- focus was on him before this game. I think he has nailed it. I

think he has got everything right. The way they set out to play, they

played that way it has been successful to a degree, I think

well done Neil Lennon for doing that, and I think more

opportunities will come his way. One thing we forget, the wind is

behind Ross Cowen any the second half, and by the way, it could turn

into a gale. That might suit them well. It just pushes Celtic back a

bit and they might get a few opportunities from that It has been

quite a first half at Victoria Park. With Celtic asking all sorts of

minutes that tap in from Gary Hooper. Ross County growing to the

task, Gardyne rattling that shot off the post. So close, so close to

1-1 and hopes still high in Dingwall they might just spring a

surprise in the second half. As Celtic too prepare to make a change

after the interval. Our commentators, the form Eros County

manager John Robertson and Liam McLeod. Thank you Rob. Yes Wanyama

will be on to replace Wilson. He is a defensive midfield player.

Wondering what will will do for Celtic. Whether he slots back in,

although Mulgrew can play at centre half. Wanyama will move into the

middle of the park. Ledley will go to left midfield. And the guy is

described -- guys describe it being on a knife edge. I suppose there is

in a way. Just a one goal lead. The referee gets us back under way. The

third meeting between the teams, the first one here, also the first

already, to reach this stage. They have beaten Queen's park and

Hamilton. Hallle on to the only team to beat them in the league so

far this season, though County sit in eighth. Too many draws. Here

Derek Adams had to say to his players. They have Celtic at times.

The short pass has been excellent. Maybe try not to hit the long ball.

Try and get people up to support McMenamin quicker, generally

speaking I think he will want them to play with more purpose and

hopefully, you know, unsettle the Celtic back four. Victoria Park

holds 6,000 give or take. What was it like managing here? Say it good

club. A well run club, and they are trying to be progressive. And go

forward. At the time that there was a bit financial problems to be fair,

they had to lose a lot of decent good players, but the club wants to

go forward. They are desperate to get to the Premier League and be up

with their old rivals Inverness semifinals of the League Cup after

their ties last night. The other because of his sending off in the

weekend r weekend draw with Livingston. 1-1 that game finished.

I was speaking to Steven before the game and he has appealed. I

understood if you appeal it you can can be involved in the game but

there are other things that have said no, you are not available.

Which is a bizarre circumstances. They are going to hear that

tomorrow which is no use for tone's tie. Mulgrew. Scored in the

Scottish Cup Final. This is Gary Hooper. He is trying to play in

Ledley. Made a great run to his left. Looked for the winger forest.

have lost one away domestic cup tie in 2005. Solitary defeat away from

home, and away from Hampden was at Kayal was. That was probably

trickier than it looked. Greasy surface, means a greasy ball.

Fraser had to be careful There is a bit of a wind swilling up there. He

had a wee look, realised there were no forwards coming in so he parried

Fraser. Gary Hooper has. They have given it away. Here comes Celtic

again. It is only half clear. James Forest. This Stokes and tucked in.

There you go. That could be game set and match for Celtic. Kayal

knocking the ball into the net, Gary Hooper was waiting in the

middle as well. Scott Boyd, it may well have come off last and Celtic

surely have almost two feet into the quarterfinals. Think could be

an own goal. It is slack play initially from Vigurs, it slipped

in, it comes over here you will see it come back out to heer. I am sure

Scott Boyd know there's is people behind him and he has driven it

into his own net. It's a disaster there for Ross County. A good ball

in. Boyd tries to ease it back, past the post. Unfortunately it has

come off the base of his ankle and into the back of the net. Celtic

exercising Ross County ghosts. Gardyne was fouled meantime. And it

is an uphill task for Ross County. Ben Nevis proportions you feel.

That is the last thing they needed. They got into decent positions, but

it is a self-inflicted one as well. That is a sore one for McMenamin,

catching an arm. But County need to get a goal, they need to get one

back and put Celtic under pressure. But you have to fancy Celtic at the

moment. They are able to clear under pressure. Now it is

Blocked by Munro. It is unlucky from Celtic. A good movement there,

good passing ill skills from Forest and Matthews. A little touch inside.

He skips past the challenge. He is trying to squeeze that one over the

far side there, for Stokes but he couldn't get round the County

It is OK if you are playing down the channels and it is in the

ground between the full backs and essential ter halfs. When Tay have

moved it quickly and well, that is when they are playing better,

better chances have come about. own goal is a killer. We will see

it again at some sage he has opened his body to knock it back, he is

trying to play it away. It hits his heel. You are only talking inches

but it comes off at a different angle and unfortunately for Scott

it is in the back of the net. You could see what he was trying to do.

A little side foot but it wasn't to be. A couple of the County players.

A couple of them you had at Livingston as well.. Yes, I have,

been fortunate to work with a few. Michael Fraser and grant Munro.

Scott Boyd, Gary Miller. Richard Brittain and McMenamin at

Livingston as well, so I know a few of them, and they are good honest

lads, they have done very very -- very very well. I am sure one of

two would fancy themselvess to go Fraser's goal on the far side. I'm

not sure what the intention of that score. It was a game when they

looks threatened. Yes, there is the comfort of a second goal. It takes

a bad bounce or mistake or deflection and suddenly the tie is

wide-open but that gives Celtic a degree of comfort now knowing they

are 2-0 up. County will have to push forward and that will leave

thought. You will see that it hits his left heel. He was trying to get

it past with his instep but his heel made a connection with the

ball and that is why it came off his for it at such a strange angle.

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clever. -- Hooper. He is so direct. It is very difficult for the centre

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he can do for the Celtic supporters stop the play there. But it is just

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missed -- nit-picking as the surface tonight and is used the

defenders rather than the attackers. Both teams have tried it so they

are obviously looking to exploit Highlands, it was a chip they would

rather forget - losing to Inverness inmate and it cost them the league

Apology for the loss of subtitles for 48 seconds

will be forthcoming for Celtic. the Ross County captain. Celtic are

certainly enjoying this trip to the Highlands. And there must have been

one or two who thought, he we go, at Ross County. I'm not sure the

topless behaviour is the right way about an inch or two inches. That

was very unfortunate. Cooper and Kayal are receiving attention. --

lot of the Celtic squad. They have international players in their

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asking a lot of Fitzpatrick to get Matthews. I'm sure it Derek Adam

will make some kind of decision soon because the game is drifting

away. Maybe now there will be an opportunity to bring on Kurtis

Byrne who is more of the striker or have a go at something else. There

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turf it will be sodden. The water That was good stuff. They are in

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second spell at Celtic by the scruff of the neck. He has been one

of the first picks on the team after forcing himself into the

first team last season. Brittain is looking for Gardyne, instead it is

Kayal. They are getting frustrated. It is seeing Celtic in so much

control. The strikers want the ball knocked up to them quickly but

Celtic because they have so comfortable. The midfield are

keeping it. There is a lot of touches and Hooper and Stokes want

that ball quickly. They want to get away from the defenders. It is

easier for the County defence to keep a hold because it's a slow

Lennon. He said after that cup semifinal, he can give players

information tactics but there are two things you can't give them.

Hunger and desire. He said they were found wanting that day. It was

just 16 days into his caretaker tenure Neil Lennon when they lost

to County. Pivotal moment for him and for the club. Not one player

out there in green and white was involved. It wasn't that long ago.

No, as I say that is what manages and coaches do. Neil had probably

the benefit of having ten, 11 matchs with that squad and seeing

what he thought. What they were about. What they had and none of

them over the next two years good enough for his vision of Celtic's

first team. Scott Brown was involved. Wilson was on the bench.

They brought him on as a substitute. None of them in the squad tonight.

This is Vigurs. Who is thinking about the shot. Majstorovic blocks.

Brittain. He needed to be a bit interesting. It is Vigurs. It is

blocked. You are right. They are not incisive enough. Brittain and

Fitzpatrick. It is not quite Stokes is getting more frustrated.

We would have thought he could have got a goal or two, hymn and heaper.

It is too slow. That why they are not getting in behind them. --

himself and Hooper. Do you understand his us from traiing at

not getting into the team on a regular bay sifpls he scored 24 for

Hibs the previous season. Is he the player that should be up there with

Hooper on a regular basis? These days, you hear a lot about squads

and rotations and things like that, a club the size of Celtic, they are

bound to have you would expect four good strikers, four strikers that

Neil Lennon feels he's can go to any time. So you can expect it now

and again. Certainly, he gets his goals and he has a good

relationship with Hooper. They play well together, but occasionally and

most notably the cup ties, and against Rangers, Neil Lennon has a

preference for Samaras at the front man on his own, which as I say for

Stokes heb will be hugely we were hinting at. They have a

free-kick here. I think we will find this is clipped forward from

Gardyne. It probably hits Mulgrew on the arm. He will argue the fact

left foot, this is an opportunity for County to put the ball into the

sec -- Celtic box. He got rid of it. That is good defending. Boyd got a

couple of headers. There is Mulgrew and Majstorovic in the heart. No

chance of anybody getting a header. There is two of them making sure

the County attacker can't get to it. County will make the change I think

before they take this corner kick. It will be Curtis Byrne who will

replace Vigurs. County's first change. I think they have to go for

it now. So a midfield player. Vyinger is not happy. She is a good

player. You can see frustration from him as well. Curtis Byrne will

go straight up front beside McMenamin and Gardyne will go to

the left hand side. It is an interest one, Byrne, the hero of

the Hibs youth team that won a left foot slips, and then, in the

end it looked quite good. I suspect that it may have been due to the

underfoot conditions, rather than the technique of the player. But we

will give him the benefit of the doubt. I didn't think you were

going to Hearts as a 1-0 lead against Ayr. Another awkward trip

for an SPL side. Mulgrew will take the free-kick for Celtic. Munro

has been tireless tonight. He is is a player I admire. Wonderful skill,

technique, trickery, he can play in a lot of positions. He hasn't had a

great time lately he is lively. Went looking for the ball and he is

still trying to hold Ross County back-in to the match. Which sadly

has just seems to be drifting further and further away. Celtic

about to Britain on Bangura. Just shortly. They are on the offensive

again here. I wonder if Neil will take off Stokes. Maybe frustration

the fact he is going to get as we call it in the trade the hook.

will be Stokes. He is not going to be happy here. If we get the camera

on him we may get a disgruntled expression. I think he knows his

from Lawson. That is good defending. Good defending. Byrne is another

lad I have had the pleasure of working with. Here is the

substitution. Stokes off. Bangura on. He has a smile on his face.

Well, he did. You can see, he is chatting with Neil Lennon about the

frustration. They are got getting the ball. He will live to fight

another day I am sure. Bangura on, recommended to Celtic by Henrik

Larsson. That is one very very good recommendation and also I would

suggest a bit of pressure, because the great man scored many goals. If

he says it is good enough that is what is required. He was 40 this

supporters see in Kayal. Driving force in the heart of that midfield.

Still he goes. He has run into a brick wall in the end. It is

terrific midfield play. He is a wonderful player. He has done what

is required. He hasn't done anything fan sism he knows the team

need a solid base to play from. He has sat there, in the centre of

midfield, just controlling everything, looking after

everything and occasionally bursts forward. He has shown his class all

night. Cheep corner for Celtic to concede. This was the Kayal run.

glides, really. He glide through. That was a free-kick I was

suggesting. County corner. That was awkward. Mulgrew was in the way.

Lawson shot blocked by Bangura. Again, I think the Celtic coaching

staff there having a little word with the fourth official, just to

ask why perhaps he didn't get it, but I am sure 2-0 up inside ten

minutes to go, they will seen forget about it. The fourth

corner here. He has. He has played two-third of the match up front on

his own. He has worked tirelessly. He is very unselfish. That was a

killer blow in the circumstances of it. That seemed to take the game

out of his reach, but a goal back, you never know. Brittain with the

corner. Won by Wanyama. Hooper. And now the counters is on. Bangura

didn't quite get on to it. Great pass. I don't think Hooper was

expecting it. A lot of skill. A lot of inside stick here, beautiful. I

don't think Hooper is expecting that ball. It is unbelievable.

was want a description of that, the chopstick We got some skills video

and I think it is one of Ronaldo's chopsticks. It will do. You used to

do it all the time. I had one trick and one trick only. You weren't bad

that, to be fair. Byrne is off side. He is a good player. He is another

one I had the fortune to work with. It is is a strange one. He was

highly recommended and he obviously, John Hughes give him his chance,

now he is here. I think, well, as I said at the time, he scored eight

goals for East Fife in about 12 matches, and we wanted to keep him

at the time, but Hibs haz had six month to make a decision on him he

got a couple of substitute appearances, I don't think they

ever started him. But it was a surprise when he was freed from

Hibs and he ended up at Ross County and I am sure Derek Adams who

worked with him briefly will be County's League Cup aspirations.

They have been in the quarterfinals a couple of times. Right now as

with go into the final seven minutes you wouldn't be putting too

much money on them right now. Celtic, looking OK, County about to

make a change, another change. It will be Mark Corcoran. In fact say

it double change. Kttlewell and Corcoran will be on in a moment, as

Celtic try and get the ball in the middle. Bangura was waiting. He is

a good shift from Lawson. He has worked very very hard. It has ban

terrific shift from him. It will be in vain. Celtic, solid and

spectacular but in control in this match. Mark Corcoran, when I think

of him I think back todays at St Mirren when they were in the First

Division and they destroyed Motherwell. 3-0. Mark Corcoran was

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added on at the end and the Scottish Cup holders in command in

Apology for the loss of subtitles for 48 seconds

defender there. He rescued the day behind them for Celtic and stopped

the pace of the Celtic front men. They have also kept the ball from

them. The goal that has killed the match so far up which was very

debut in a minute. Hooper is doing a lot of tricks. I don't know about

the young lad but it looks as if he was a very lively, James Forrest

equalised against Hearts on the 62 George as he gets on the part in a

first-team Celtic jersey. -- the football stuff and say Celtic have

been solid and devotional. It all hinged Garda you need some luck

from time to time -- solid and very unlucky. -- Scott Ball we'd

Celtic -- second half in complete intervention there from Michael

left-hand of his up. He has been unlucky. He always seems to have

hat is brought in front of him like Mark Brown at Inverness. Then he

went to Motherwell. That is when Michael Fraser got his chance.

he played a lot of games in season. It was decided then for Michael to

go down to No. 2. He drifted away to Malta but has come back.

Apology for the loss of subtitles for 48 seconds

time added on. That was neither finals of the Scottish to amenities

the League Cup. An exercise for Neil Lennon and the supporters who

made a long Johnny digging all. -- the long journey up. Gary Hooper

who came off towards the end of the games scored Celtic's first goal.

The second was an own goal. Neither will go down as a classic but

Celtic are much happier with a trip to the Highlands this time. Celtic

are safely through. County were Gary, a comfortable win. Yes, they

were a good team. They gave a good game but we got the early goal.

important was it to get off to such a good start? Very important. After

Sunday and losing that game. Today we needed a good performance.

manager said he wanted to re- energised the fans. Do you think

you were in some way to doing that? I think we did. It is a hard place

to come and I think we did well. Their conditions were difficult but

you must did it very well. Guess, it is nice and wet. How difficult

and night was it in trying to play composed football? Very difficult

because they were in your face. We got an early goal and we started to

kick the ball well. After Sunday, it was a good comeback. After the

weekend, there seemed to be a great deal of passion about the side.

Were the guys in the dressing room convinced they would do it this

evening? The passion is always there. You just have to get out

there and score goals and not hide. Today was a good way to do it.

County pressed. I thought we defended well. The back was solid

and the good solid performance. are through to the next round.

scored two goals and a clean sheet and we can't wait for Saturday

night. Well done. To thank you. Gary Hooper struck early and with

the home goal, they asked -- suited We might be in for a surprise or

two before we are finished because Ayr United have equalised against

Hearts. Robinson gave them the lead. Look at that other scoreline!

Falkirk lead Rangers by one goal to nil. Those matches started half an

hour after our match at Victoria Park. Letters get the latest from

the Falkirk stadium. We could be in for a shock as they

elite Rangers from a back post header after 54 minutes. That

shocked Rangers into action and the SPL champions are throwing

everything they have into this. There is just 20 minutes to go.

Rangers will struggle for their League Cup lives are tonight at the

fall Cox stadium. Hearts are in for eight tough unfinished to their cup

tie a match as well. This Matt is coming to live in the

second half. The Defence flecked -- failed to clear up a corner. Hearts

thought they had scored a second and it was initially awarded but

the assistant flight stated that the ball was plunged into the net.

Seconds later, Ayr were back on level terms. 20 minutes left here

at Somerset Park and plenty of We will be back with Brian and

Chris if there is any change in those matches at Falkirk and Ayr.

Let us hear from Pat Nevin and Dundee United manager, it Peter

Houston. On the back of what happened for Celtic on Sunday, that

was a professional performance, wasn't it? The second goal was very

important. They got a bit of fortune with the own goal but

Celtic's performance in the second half was very good. Good counter-

attack football and they defended well. Anything that Ross County

threw at them, the back for did exceptionally well. -- the back

four. The attitude of the team showed from the start. Yes. With an

away game, it is a difficult one. Hearts are having a difficult time.

They had to be professional about it and they were incredibly

professional. We said at the start, do you want to put on a show or get

through? Celtic got through and didn't do anything particularly

wrong. Derek will be slightly disappointed. I don't know if his

team played as well as they could have because they needed a top

level performance. Let us hear what more goems in that game? I think we

started very well. You know, we kept them in it. We lost a bad goal

after 12 minutes but Gardyne hit the post. I thought Celtic deserved

to win the match. You put plenty of effort and application in, the

problem is you are up against a team that have operating at top

level who are the kind of players who you could only dream about.

we hoped to will have caused them a few problems ch we didn't do that

in the second half. We went 2-0 down and there was only one winner

after that. In terms of losing a goal early on, how big a blow that

was to the confidence? It was a big blow but I thought we responded

well. We passed the ball very well earlier on in the second half, but

I think Celtic were far too strong for us tonight. It was a game that

maybe lacked a bit of composure because of the pace. I think it was.

First half, we had some good balls, possession, second half, we didn't

use it quickly enough or well enough. Celtic were able to keep

possession of the ball very well. How difficult is it for you guys to

step up to the plate against a team of Celtic's quality? It is very

difficult. You know. I think we had a day in Hampden, and, but at home,

and the way Celtic played at times, if we had gone in at 1-1 at half-

time it might have been a different story. In the second half I thought

Celtic were just playing within themselves. Did things deviate from

the game plan you had before the game s that what happens? I thought

we conand they very well in the first half. We limited them to not

many chances, in the second half, I think when the game opened up they

had a few more. In the end I am proud of the player, the way they

stuck to their task but they are at a different level from us. You will

try to take as many positives from the game. What positives do you

take from this evening's game? think the positives are we caused

them problems at times. In the end, Celtic have run out winners. Thank

you. A contrast then to the mood of Derek Adams 17 months ago at

Hampden when Ross County beat Celtic in the semifinals. Cocker

hoop then. Realistic tonight about Celtic were far better than Ross

County he said that himself. They were ahead inside 14 minutes when

Gary Hooper scored with a tap in. They put the pressure on Ross

County early on with good deliveries. Great balls in there.

The keeper leaves it. This is a corner that gets Celtic the goal.

They didn't cope with it early doors. It puts pressure on your

defence. If you don't deal with bread and butter crosses. Celtic

are strong it's a lovely ball. A good header down and good strikers

are always there looking for a goal. It's a good goal as far as Celtic

is concerned but if you look at Ross County, to lose to such a poor

goal, they will be disappointed with that. That was always going to

be the goal part that would settle Celtic down. Yes. Interestingly,

you watch Stoke chases it down. He you watch Stoke chases it down. He

did something similar against Hibs. Just like that there. It takes a

number of things. You know, had Ross County somehow managed to get

the whole goal -- first goal the whole dynamic of the game changes.

But you know, they lost a bit of heart. They worked hard. I knew he

would be proud of them, but I think that interview, I think he wanted

four questions earlier there, it is a tough one for him. He wants to

get back in, work with the players. It needs his team to be playing

100% and Celtic to have an off day. The one binge moment of concern for

Celtic was when Gardyne hit the post, and who knows, how the game

might have shaped out after that might have shaped out after that

had this gone in. Two centre halfs go for the ball. That is a

fantastic strike. He steps on to it brilliantly. The keeper is beaten

here, and it is just disappointing because it could have had a huge

effect on the game because it gets the confidence back after losing an

early goal. The goal that settled early goal. The goal that settled

it was a Scott Boyd own goal. Neil is with me now. He is happy man. It

was a good performance and a sound win. I am delighted. It wasn't easy.

It never is coming to a First Division groan. The conditions were

difficult to play in but very pleased. Very professional. Just

exactly the reaction I was looking for. How important was the very

early goal? 13 minutes and you're ahead. Not just the goal, the

attitude and the manner we approached the game, it was what I

wanted. We got the goal, deservedly so and the football we played at

times in the final third was good. I am pleased with the clean sheet.

That was important, there was good individual performances out there.

There was lots of pace and energy down the flanks. You made them work

hard. Yes, they made it difficult. They packed the field. It was

difficult to play through them at times. They moved the ball well

from time side the siem. On the counter attack we were good,

particularly second half. We got a bit of fortune with the second goal.

But if finishing had been more clinical. We had a chance at the

end. Very pleased with the result. Clean sheet and we look forward to

Saturday night. You said before the game that after the Rangers game

you wanted to reenergise the fan, how far do you think that went

towards that? A little bit. You know, take it step by step. We've

got a lot of important games coming up in the league. We want to win

them. You know, take the form we have showed at Motherwell and

tonight into these games and we should be OK. Well done tonight

Neil. Raise so Celtic are through to the quarterfinals. Rangers could

be heading out. Back to the Falkirk stadium. Falkirk 2-0. Almost a

carbon copy of the first. The Rangers fans stunned. Falkirk on

the verge of something special, with just under 15 minutes to go.

So 2-0 Falkirk and 1-1 between Ayr United and Hearts. It finished

Celtic 2, Ross County 0 at Victoria Park and it was a Scot Boyd own

goal that settled it. Unfortunate for the lad. We are talking about

the conditions. Great cut back there and it's a short, saved by

the keeper, he has held that quite well there, but as far as the goal

is concerned, when it comes into Boyd, I don't think there is a lot

Boyd, I don't think there is a lot he can do. It is played along here.

That is a good defender there. I think people see an own goal and

think he has had a Stan Kerr -- stinker. It is difficult. He

doesn't know whether he should leave it or not. The only thing he

can do is try and pass it, past the back post, so it's a mistake, but

there is a lot of people that think, there by the grace of God go I.

don't think Scot Boyd welcomes the attention of the BBC cameras,

because it was his own goal a year ago at Victoria Park that won it

for Dundee United: No, very unfortunate. The pace of the ball,

if he had left it he probably would o have got away with it. But he

can't do that. He has went for it. He is unfortunate. If you play the

game you try to guide it past the post and give a corner away at

worst. So, he's, he'll be disappointed but later on the game,

a similar type ball came out and he back heels it away. So a difficult

ball to deal with and unfortunately for Ross County it went in, but

decent enough for Celtic. Let us look back on what happened last

night in the Scottish communities League Cup. These were the results.

East Fife through to the Mirren won the battle of the Saints

in Perth. Let us look back at what happened at Pittodrie last night.

They were ahead through Ryan Wallace. The standard of finishing

in this game was magnificent. is Matthew Park. That is one of the

goals of the season. I love this though. That little ball there.

That is better than any ball we have seen tonight. His vision,

awareness, even when he is not looking. They deserved the win.

That was fantastic. You have to give credit to the keeper. The

amount of penalty-kicks he's saved, I think it was three. It's a great

achievement. It is a bad result for Craig Brown and I feel for the

Aberdeen supporters. The cup is about romance, we talk about

Falkirk beating Rangers and many people will want that to happen.

East Fife done the business and deserved to go through. What about

the pressure on Craig Brown? Every manager goes through it. It is at

the bottom of league. You have Hibernian and Aberdeen and there is

pressure on both of them. I suppose they have to think to themselves

they scored three goals, that is one positive they can take out of

it. Concentrate on the league. game at Fir Park. That went to a

penalty shoot-out. He has been a star. He can't stop scoring. It's a

great ball. Great touch in as well. They will be disappointed. Stevens

let that go. Look at Garry O'Connor's touch. Fantastic finish.

That is quality striker. Again it is keepers. They get the glory.

That is the one time they get the glory. Coming back to a corner,

thinking of what O'Connor was capable of. It is back on track. He

is looking in good shape. He could score a lot of goals this season.

Your team got the job done at Airdrie? Yes, delighted because

there is a difficult place, I have to get credit to Airdrie, they

thought they played very well. As long as it was 1-0 they were still

in game. Great goal there, but everybody had chances to score.

When Paul Dix on gets forward he is capable of doing that. Jon Daly has

played with Dixon a long time. That is what happened. Then we started

to win the match and much more comfortable than it was. The goal

machine of the SPL is Paul Heffernan. Hat-trick against Queen

of the sou. It's the comfort. He looks like a natural striker. That

is the big thing. A natural goalscorer. When he gets a one-on-

one with the keeper you kind of believe in him. He has a bit of

awareness about him. That is so comfortable and confident. It looks

easy this one, but you know he still has to have the belief.

a fantastic touch, more so touching the it over the keeper like that.

That lad is on fire and he has done the business in England. He has

played at a good level. Played in Doncaster. Great credit for getting

him up at Kilmarnock. St Johnstone won at the weekend, they followed

by losing to the other saints St Mirren last night. This was the

goal that killed it Jim good win. keep on saying the quality of goals

has been fantastic. And first time I thought, so I thought maybe the

keeper should have got it. Maybe not. This is a roerk. Even in slow

motion. Look at the speed of the ball. It is fantastic. So as a

competition, it has been enlivened by the quality of the goals. Not

the fact we have the possibility of an upset. Because Celtic's result

was good for the fans. It could be hell of a good result if Rangers

don't win. Look at the goals last night and you look at East Fife and

what Falkirk are doing now, you would normally say one of these

guys but the results they are creating, so far, it is difficult

to choose. I would like a home tie. One day it will be for East Fife.

It is It's a tough one, do they want go all the way in the

competition, so they can get Ayr, if they manage to get through, or

do they want the big fantastic game at Celtic Park or whatever. I think

they will be delighted to be in this part of the competition and

hope they can play the way they played there. Nothing to fear.

Absolutely nothing to fear. If you can go up to Pittodrie and do that

you can go anywhere. Highlights of last night's five cup ties are on

line already. The Celtic Ross County match later tonight. And you

will be able to see those other two matches Ayr United and Hearts and