Fan discontent over Celtic’s calamitous Champions League play-off exit to LASK was writ large at Parkhead on Saturday in a banner bearing the message ‘World Class Embarrassment’, yet the overall mood was more supportive than sour. Much to O’Neill’s surprise.
Celtic got the job done with a Camilo Duran double against Falkirk, although Colby Donovan’s own goal ensured a nervy final 20 minutes. It wasn’t the prettiest of victories, but it was crucial.
“As we got off the bus, the crowd actually cheered us, which was unexpected and something that we probably didn’t deserve. I was really pleased,” said O’Neill.
Midfielder Luke McCowan, a whipping boy on social media over his performance in Linz, was welcomed off the bench against Falkirk with an ovation.
“I thought the fans were good today,” former Celtic captain Scott Brown told BBC Scotland.
“I liked what they did when McCowan came on. They are the real fans, going to games, not sitting behind keyboards.
“It’s disrespectful, that. Luke has had to delete his Instagram or Twitter and he shouldn’t need to do that. It’s part and parcel of football, having a good game and a bad game.
“I know he will be hurting, but it takes a strong character to come back and get on with what he does. Luke did well when he came on. He’s a huge Celtic fan and always wants to do his best for Celtic.”
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