Preview: Celtic vs Airdrieonians
January 18, 2019
Kieran Millar believes anything is possible as Airdrie prepare to take on holders Celtic in the William Hill Scottish Cup.
The midfield man is gearing up for the fourth round showcase at Celtic Park on Saturday, with the Diamonds going into the televised tie on a good run of form.
Airdrie’s unbeaten run was extended to four matches with a 1-1 draw against Raith Rovers last weekend, and Millar thinks the scoreline was a fair reflection on the match.
“It probably was a fair result. We didn’t start too well, but after we got the goal we dominated and we were a bit unlucky not to go in 2-0 up at half-time.
“In the second half they put us under a bit of pressure, and unfortunately for us they got the goal. With the saves at the end the game could have gone either way, but it was a bit disappointing not to make it four wins in a row ahead of the Celtic game.”
The fourth round tie has been keenly anticipated since the draw was made in November, and Millar is looking forward to adding a memorable cup match to his CV.
“So far I haven’t had any standout Scottish Cup results in my career - my teams have tended to beat the teams from our own league but struggled against anyone from higher up.
“I’ve never played at Celtic Park either, so if I’m picked on Saturday it’ll be amazing. It’s a great game for the players, the fans and everyone at the club.”
The Parkhead side are established as the dominant force in Scottish Football, and are currently aiming for a historic third consecutive treble under Brendan Rodgers.
Kieran is under no illusions as to the enormity of the task, but the 25-year-old would love the Diamonds to spoil the party.
“Celtic have been the top team in Scotland over the last five years so it’s obviously going to be very difficult.
“We’d need a lot of factors in our favour to get a result - every one of us would need to play above ourselves and hope some of them are playing below themselves. It’s a formidable task, but stranger things have happened."
Manager Ian Murray is focused on getting a good performance from his side.
“Celtic are a very good team - it’s hard for teams in the top league to go to Parkhead and get a result so we’re aware of the size of the task.
“We’ll go there and try to play well and enjoy the occasion - it’s a nice break from the norm and we’re looking forward to it.”
Scott Gallacher remains sidelined and the game may come too soon for Ryan Conroy as he recovers from injury, but the Diamonds boss has an otherwise full squad to choose from.
There are spaces remaining on the Airdrie Supporters’ Trust buses to Celtic Park. Email airdrietrust@hotmail.com to book your place.