Bhoys sick as away jinx strikes again

CELTIC’S dismal away record in the Champions League was extended as they lost to a late Oscar Cardozo goal against Benfica in Lisbon last night.

The Scottish champions matched the home side in the first half but after the break, the Paraguayan international striker twice hit the woodwork and was denied by a world-class save from Artur Boruc. But in the 86th minute he beat the offside trap to knock the ball past Boruc, leaving the Glasgow side 14 group games without a win away from Parkhead.

Gordon Strachan’s men are bottom of Group D. Said the Bhoys boss: “You have to handle these blows. It was terrific heart that the players showed today. In the Champions League that helps and quality passing helps you as well, we chased the ball a lot and we had tired minds at the end.

“We had a couple of chances ourselves and on a lucky night I thought we might get the result.

“I thought it would be our night but it just shows you it’s a very cruel game and you have to deal with it.”

Celtic defender Gary Caldwell admitted he was “bitterly disappointed” by the result.

Said Gary Caldwell: “I think we deserved a point — we set our stall out to defend and we did well for long periods.

“Artur Boruc is fantastic, he makes great saves at big moments. The defence, midfield and attack all worked hard and it’s bitterly disappointing to lose it at the end.

“I think (Benfica) are a good team, but coming to Parkhead is a different game. I’m sure they won’t be looking forward to coming to our home ground.”

Hoops skipper Stephen McManus added: “It’s very disappointing to be honest but we need to pick ourselves up and get ready for the next challenge.”

Asked about Celtic’s dismal European record away from home, McManus said: “When you play away in the Champions League they’re always tough games. We set our stall out and we felt we deserved at least a point.

“We believe in our own ability, we will go into the next game full of confidence.”

BENFICA: Quim, Pereira, Luisao, Katsouranis, Leo, Nuno Assis (Di Maria 61), Binya, Rui Costa, Rodriguez (Luis Felipe 84), Bergessio (Adu 61), Cardozo.

CELTIC: Boruc, Caldwell, Kennedy, McManus, Naylor, Hartley, Jarosik, Scott Brown, Donati (Sno 63), McGeady, Killen (McDonald 74).

Ref: Massimo Busacca (Switzerland).