Celtic B kept their impressive home record intact in the UEFA Youth League with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Club Brugge on Wednesday afternoon. The young Hoops have now recorded three wins from three at home in the competition, moving to nine points from five games with just one group match remaining.

Daniel Cummings’ early strike proved decisive in Glasgow, as the forward continued his fine scoring form in Europe this season.

Cummings on Target Again

Fresh from a commanding 4-0 league win over Albion Rovers on Friday night, Stephen McManus’ side returned to European action at The City Stadium, welcoming Belgian outfit Club Brugge.

Looking to build on their two previous home victories in the tournament, Celtic started brightly. They found the breakthrough within 10 minutes, thanks to Cummings, who tucked away a precise finish with his left foot following a slick move down the left flank.

The goal marked Cummings’ sixth of the UEFA Youth League campaign, underlining his importance to the side as they chase progression to the next stage.

Celtic Push for More

The Bhoys didn’t rest on their lead, immediately pressing Brugge from the restart. Mitchel Frame came close to doubling the advantage, only for his powerful effort to be blocked in the box after a well-delivered cross from Jude Bonnar.

Celtic maintained their attacking intensity, with Bonnar and Kyle Ure both testing the Brugge goalkeeper. Francis Turley nearly grabbed a second before the break, his corner delivery clipping the crossbar as Celtic went in 1-0 up.

Resolute Defence and a Glimpse of Flair

Club Brugge emerged stronger in the second half, enjoying more time on the ball in Celtic’s defensive third. However, Aidan Rice was equal to everything thrown his way, confidently dealing with any threats to his goal.

As the half wore on, Celtic regained their composure and looked to extend their lead. Substitute Rhys Dargie made an immediate impact, threading a clever pass to Frame, whose cross was cut out just in time by the Brugge defence.

Moments later, Dargie came closest to a second, his curling effort towards the far corner brilliantly tipped away by the Brugge keeper. Despite the best efforts of the young Hoops, the scoreline remained 1-0.

Eyes on Zagreb

The result strengthens Celtic B’s grip on second place in the group, leaving them with everything to play for in their final fixture away to Dinamo Zagreb next month. A win in Croatia would all but guarantee a spot in the knockout stages of the prestigious competition.

Fans following the B team’s European journey can expect highlights and analysis from CeltsAreHere’s own Quinny in the coming days. With three wins from three at home, there’s plenty of reason to feel optimistic about the young Bhoys’ chances of advancing further.

It’s a strong showing from McManus’ side, and now all focus turns to their decisive trip to Zagreb.

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