Crosas keeps faith in Celtic cause
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
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Celtic FC need six points and a minor disaster for Hamburger SV to reach the last 32, but as they host Hapoel Tel-Aviv FC on Matchday 5, defender Marc Crosas maintained his side "still have a chance".
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Celtic FC midfielder Marc Crosas insists he and his team-mates owe it to the fans to secure three points in their final UEFA Europa League home match against Hapoel Tel-Aviv FC in Group C. Once renowned for their resilience in Glasgow's east end, the Bhoys are yet to win at home in Europe this season.
Fading hope
The visit of Hapoel may well provide Celtic's last opportunity to do so, with their hopes of progression in the UEFA Europa League hanging by a thread after taking only two points from four games. Tony Mowbray's team now require wins in their remaining two fixtures to have any chance of reaching the last 32, and also need Hamburger SV to lose both of their final group matches. Despite the odds being stacked against his side, Crosas remains positive and, at the very least, is demanding a winning sign-off at Celtic Park.
Not over yet
"I think we still have a chance," the former FC Barcelona player said. "We need to win this game, to do our jobs, and then we will see if we are only playing for pride. But I believe we can get our first win in the Europa League. Celtic fans are always behind the team and I think they will be for this one as well. So far this season, we haven't shown them enough, but we want to change that. Whatever people may think, the table says we still have a chance. We are Celtic. We are one of the biggest clubs in Europe. We have to go for the win."
Fine margins
Despite Crosas' optimism, Celtic's record in European competition this term speaks for itself. A solitary victory in eight attempts has been teamed with five defeats and two draws, but manager Tony Mowbray is hoping a closing flourish can have a positive effect on the rest of their season. He said: "We will try to win the last two games. For the bigger picture and for the sake of our season it's important to us. Psychologically it would send us into our game on Saturday, against Aberdeen with our heads up. If you are a confident team you will probably take more of the chances that come your way."
Change of fortune
The Celtic boss is also hoping for a change of luck, adding: "So far in the group, we've produced some decent performances without managing to take advantage of the situations we've found ourselves in. It is pleasing that we've been in every game, but the fact that we could have won every game we've played is also disappointing, because we haven't won them."