Sutton lauds ‘gutsy’ Celtic despite defeat in Spain

Add as preferred source on Google

Chris Sutton lauded Celtic’s performance against Valencia, despite the Hoops crashing out of Europe.

The Bhoys turned in a creditable display despite being reduced to 10 men when Jeremy Toljan was dismissed in the first half. They battled hard though, but eventually lost 1-0, and 3-0 on aggregate.

Despite the loss, Sutton commended the Hoops on Twitter, describing their display as ‘gutsy’.

Celtic’s performance was definitely better than their meek display in the first leg. Brendan Rodgers moved to three at the back, and the Hoops controlled large chunks of the game.

Sending-off changed the game

The first-half dismissal of Toljan did change the game though, and from then on the Bhoys were on the back foot.

Despite the red card, Kristoffer Ajer blew a glorious chance to give the Hoops the lead, putting a free header over the bar.

Shortly after that Kevin Gameiro scored the only goal of the game, and the Hoops’ adventures in Europe were over for another year.

Plenty of positives

Despite the loss, the Hoops can take plenty of positives out of the game. They went toe to toe with a top La Liga side and didn’t look out of their depth.

Now that the Europe is gone, the Hoops must take heart from their display into their domestic matches. Beginning with Sunday’s game against in-form Motherwell.