Youths get double reward for hard workIT was a proud night at Hampden for Celtic as the Under-19s beat Rangers 2-1 after extra-time to lift the Youth Cup for the second year in a row, also ensuring a second consecutive double.
The young Hoops had secured the league title last weekend with an emphatic 4-0 victory over Motherwell and they followed it up with a dramatic, but well-deserved win over Rangers at the National Stadium.
And it was a very proud Tommy McIntyre who watched his young charges lift the trophy in front of a jubilant Celtic support.
“It’s wonderful,” the Under-19s coach said after the game. “It’s all about big nights like this and the experience these young players get. The fans have been fantastic and it’s been great for the club, for these players, and for the staff.
“I think we’ve done it the hard way in terms of the league, with so many games so close together – other teams were a bit more fortunate. But they dug in, they’ve shown great mental strength and I’m really proud of them.
“They’ve worked so hard, they’re really diligent in what they do and they come in to work with a smile on their faces, and it’s really great to reward them like this.”
The game itself saw Celtic take the lead on 71 minutes through Greig Spence, only to see Rangers equalise late in the game.
But a superb finish from substitute Liam Gormley gave the Hoops a 2-1 victory and another Youth Cup triumph.
“I thought we were by far the best team,” said McIntyre. “Sometimes players’ heads can go down when they lose a goal so near the end of a game – it was two minutes to go when Rangers go their equaliser.
“But I thought we dug out the best chances in the game and we were worthy winners.”
And Celtic supporters will be able to acclaim the Under-19 double winners at this Sunday’s SPL game against Dundee United at Celtic Park.
Because the young Hoops will be presented with their league trophy at half-time during the game.
So get along to Paradise this Sunday, May 1 to cheer on Neil Lennon’s Bhoys as they go for the double, and applaud the young Celtic stars of the future.