Celtic delivered a commanding performance on Saturday afternoon as they cruised to a 4-0 victory over Premier League side Newcastle United in a pre-season friendly at Celtic Park. The result provides a huge morale boost for Brendan Rodgers’ side as they gear up for the start of the Scottish Premiership season.
The Hoops dominated from the outset, with Matt O’Riley opening the scoring in the 14th minute after a slick passing move sliced through Newcastle’s midfield. Celtic doubled their lead just before the half-hour mark, with Kyogo Furuhashi calmly finishing a low cross from Liel Abada to make it 2-0.
Newcastle, who fielded a strong starting XI including Alexander Isak and Bruno Guimarães, struggled to impose themselves and were repeatedly caught out by Celtic’s pace and pressing. The third goal arrived early in the second half when Reo Hatate capitalised on a defensive error and curled a fine shot past Martin Dúbravka.
Rodgers used the opportunity to rotate his squad, giving valuable minutes to several young prospects. One of them, Rocco Vata, added the fourth in the 82nd minute with a composed finish that capped off a fluid attacking move.
The result serves as a warning to domestic rivals that Celtic are sharpening up nicely ahead of the league’s opening weekend. Rodgers praised his side’s intensity and discipline post-match, stating, “It was a top performance in terms of fitness, tempo, and attitude. That’s exactly what you want to see at this stage of pre-season.”
For Newcastle boss Eddie Howe, the defeat was a reality check, though he insisted the focus remains on conditioning and squad cohesion before the Premier League campaign begins. The Magpies will look to bounce back in their next friendly fixture.
Be the first to comment