Celtic too good for Saints
by Richard Field, 18 July 2008
Claus Lundekvam’s testimonial ended in a 2-0 defeat at the hands of Celtic at St Mary’s.
The retiring Saints skipper had paid out a quarter of a million pounds to stage this match and a crowd of just over 18,000 meant he was likely to break even.
The Scottish champions led in the 25th minute when Scott McDonald laid the ball off to Chris Killen who shot home from 12-yards.
Southampton were not at the races in the first half as the superior skills of the visitors told.
Michael Svensson caused plenty of bother as a second half substitute for Southampton, but Celtic doubled their lead in the 66th minute.
Lloyd James brought down Georgios Samaras and Barry Robson hammered the ball into the left corner from the penalty spot.
Matt Le Tissier came on for the last 15 minutes and, in typical fashion, almost scored with a delicate chip which failed to evade the Celtic goalkeeper.
Lundekvam waved to all sections of the stadium at the final whistle as they stood and applauded a player with 12 years service.