Celtic B suffered a narrow defeat in an engaging contest that saw them finish the game with 10 men against Bo’ness.
The game commenced with high hopes for the visitors, and in the early stages, Celtic B showcased promising play. Mackenzie sought to deliver a cross into the box in the opening minutes, only to be thwarted by the Bo’ness defence.
As the game progressed, both sides exchanged spells of pressure. Bo’ness took their chances from distance, but Celtic’s Morrison was on hand to tip the ball to safety. Meanwhile, Kelly twice looked dangerous for the Celts, but both of his attempts on goal were well-blocked by a resolute home defence.
Celtic’s Bruno Davidson made a persistent nuisance of himself down the right, causing problems with his crosses, though the Bo’ness backline remained unbreached. The first half drew to a close with Celtic showing patience in possession and searching for an opening.
The second half witnessed Bo’ness breaking the deadlock in the 53rd minute, scoring from distance to put the hosts ahead.
Celtic B, not to be deterred, made their first change of the evening, introducing Cummings for Dobbie, aiming to breathe new life into their attack. Cummings immediately looked lively, making a darting run that was halted by yet another last-minute intervention from the Bo’ness defence.
The game’s dynamics shifted significantly in the 86th minute when Celtic B’s Cummings saw red. Reacting aggressively to a foul by McArthur of Bo’ness, the Hoops forward was given his marching orders, leaving his side a man short for the closing stages.
Despite being down to 10 men, Celtic B showed resilience and determination, seeking a late equaliser. The visitors continued to push forward, with multiple crosses into the box. In the 89th minute, Agbaire had an opportunity to restore parity, but once again, a Bo’ness player was there to block the effort.
The final whistle saw Celtic B’s gallant efforts unrewarded as they left Bo’ness empty-handed.
It ends in defeat in Bo'ness.#BONCEL | #SLFL | #COYBIG🍀 pic.twitter.com/bD09VBpdhy
— Celtic FC B (@CelticFCB) October 17, 2023
Celtic remain in the bottom half of the table, currently in 13th.
