Celtic's B team lost 2-0 to Ross County in the KDM Evolution Trophy this week. The second-string line-up included new signing Jason van den Berg and Chelsea prospects Shim Mheuka and Landon Emenalo. The match was played at the Excelsior Stadium in Airdrie.
Goalkeeper Corey Shaw kept the scoreline respectable in the defeat, making several important saves. The result came despite a remarkable run of form from striker Luke Clearie, who had scored 17 goals in his last 14 games for the B team before the match.
The senior side's focus now returns to Premiership action, where they sit first in the standings with 28 points from 12 games. They hold a four-point lead over Rangers ahead of their next fixture, a home match against Kilmarnock on Sunday.
Board tensions surface at Greenock supporters meeting
Around 120 fans attended a Celtic supporters meeting in Greenock on Monday night, where chief executive Michael Nicholson faced criticism over board conduct. Nicholson had not held such a meeting in almost a year. The meeting was organized by the Greenock Celtic Supporters Club.
Major shareholder Dermot Desmond accused some fans of dehumanizing board members during the event. The meeting highlighted ongoing communication issues between the club's hierarchy and its supporter base. Specific fan frustrations reportedly centered on the club's transfer strategy and a perceived lack of investment in the first-team squad.
Frank McAvennie's controversial comments on Trusty's leave
Former Celtic favourite Frank McAvennie, who now plays for the B team, sparked a backlash for questioning defender Auston Trusty's compassionate leave. Trusty, 26, is taking time away following the death of his father. McAvennie made the comments during a media appearance.
McAvennie, who was described as being miles offside with his remarks, is understood to have since been ruled out of contention for future media work with the club. Trusty lives thousands of miles from his family, a factor in the club's decision to grant him leave. The club has publicly supported Trusty's decision to take time away.
The senior squad has not played since a 2-0 defeat to Falkirk last Sunday, a result that saw Ethan Ross and Scott Tanser score for the hosts. That loss forms part of a recent run of two wins, one draw and two defeats for the first team across all competitions.
Attention now turns to preparing for the visit of Kilmarnock, who are currently 11th in the table. The match offers Celtic a chance to extend their league lead before a Europa League clash with Besiktas later this month. Manager Brendan Rodgers is expected to provide a team news update ahead of the weekend fixture.
Read the full report at Daily Record Football
