Celtic saw out their penultimate match of 2007 with a fine win at Tannadice. Goals from Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink and Stephen McManus put Celtic back to the top of the pile with an impressive win against Dundee United.
It was a thrilling match with United packing the midfield and attempting to utilise the skill of Jordan Robertson and the guile of Barry Robson at every opportunity. Celtic on the other hand were more intent on passing their way through the well organised United side and always trying to play football on the deck.
The return of Bobo Balde was welcomed by all of the Celtic support and the big man had a decent game alongside Stephen McManus in the heart of Celtic's defence. It was the Guinean's first top team start since breaking his leg against United at Parkhead last December and the script was followed as Bobo's return to the first team heralded the first clean sheet away from Paradise since 2006.
Aiden McGeady was again the pick of the bunch as Celtic pegged back United and Celtic took the lead through the ever improving JVH. Whilst still lacking the level of commitment and endeavour expected of a Celtic striker the big Dutchman has certainly added more application to the team and his hard work and willingness to roll his sleeves up and get involved have not gone unnoticed.
So it is with hopes in out heart that we look forward to 2008. With Rangers seeing off plucky Motherwell at the Stadium of Shite we turn our attention to the weekends game with one eye on our nearest and dearest rivals. Now that we can enjoy a home game prior to the arrival of the Sith on the 2nd of January is definitely an plus that we must take full advantage of. And should the Forces of Darkness drop any points on their travels we will be waiting to compound their misery come New Year!
Yours in Celtic
Clydebuilt