Celtic humble Feyenoord

Feyenoord 1 Celtic 3

An accomplished first-half display from Celtic saw them finish their four-day pre-season trip to The Netherlands on a winning note with victory over Feyenoord.

Having lost 2-0 to Tottenham in their first match, Gordon Strachan’s side were eager to get back to winning ways.

Captain for the day Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink scored twice to make that aim a reality after Georgios Samaras, recalled to the starting XI, got the Hoops off to a dream start.

Samaras, who made his loan move from Manchester City permanent this summer, produced a fine curling finish in the 13th minute after controlling Paul Hartley’s pass delicately on the left side of the box.

It took just three more minutes for Vennegoor of Hesselink to double the lead over his countrymen, heading powerfully home after some fine build-up play from Aiden McGeady and Lee Naylor.

McGeady set off on a trademark jinking run before releasing Naylor, whose cross was met by the onrushing striker.

Gary Caldwell and goalkeeper Artur Boruc combined to keep Feyenoord out on a handful of occasions as the first period continued, although former Wigan midfielder Denny Landzaat will be disappointed not to have made more of two presentable chances.

McGeady then turned creator for a second time, going past three defenders before teeing up Vennegoor of Hesselink.

This time the Dutchman produced a fierce drive to make it 3-0 before the interval.

Inevitably the pace slowed in the second period, with the two-goal skipper taking a well-earned rest to be replaced by Scott McDonald.

With 57 minutes gone Leroy Fer produced arguably the best goal of the match, drilling the ball goalwards from 25 yards to give the home fans something to cheer.

Celtic’s substitute goalkeeper Mark Brown impressed with some good reaction saves to maintain a two-goal lead until the final whistle.