Exploring the historical records of Celtic’s matches and events, particularly during periods of conflict, offers a captivating insight.
The circumstances surrounding matches played amidst logistical constraints add depth to our comprehension of the club’s past.
Additionally, referencing global historical events such as the Russian Revolution underscores the intricate interplay between sports history and broader historical contexts.
The Celtic Star’s daily Celtic Diary, authored by the esteemed Celtic Historian David Potter, reflects on pivotal Celtic events and matches from March 24, 1917, onwards.
On that Saturday, due to wartime transport challenges, Celtic had to face Pittodrie without McMenemy and Gallacher. However, they managed to secure a commendable 0-0 draw in front of 7,000 spectators, marking the largest crowd attendance of Aberdeen’s season.
Despite this, Celtic maintained a five-point lead over Rangers. However, the significant news of the day revolved around events in Russia, specifically the apparent deposition of the Czar, capturing widespread attention.
SATURDAY 24 MARCH 1962 – In a game which eccentrically kicks off at 3.30 in an attempt to get a larger crowd, Celtic beat Aberdeen 2-0 with both goals coming from the grossly undervalued Frank Brogan.
The attendance of 20,000 mirrors the typical Parkhead average, but their spirits are lifted by the news of Dundee United’s victory over Rangers.
Moving to Sunday, March 24, 1991, following their recent Scottish Cup triumph against Rangers, Celtic repeat their success in the Scottish League clash. Only one Rangers player, Scott Nisbett, receives a red card during the match, as Celtic secures a comfortable 3-0 victory with goals scored by Anton Rogan, Joe Miller, and Tommy Coyne.
Despite this positive turn of events, it comes too late to salvage the season or prevent Billy McNeill from being dismissed from his managerial role.
SATURDAY 24 MARCH 1973 – Celtic maintain their challenge for the title with a fine 2-0 win over Hearts at Tynecastle. with goals from Dixie Deans and Bobby Lennox. But Rangers also win, beating Hibs at Ibrox meaning that they are still two points ahead, although Celtic have a game in hand.
On Wednesday, March 24, 2010, Tony Mowbray’s tenure as Celtic manager comes to an abrupt and unsatisfactory conclusion following a resounding and embarrassing 0-4 defeat at St. Mirren Park.
The stunned St. Mirren team, who had just suffered a loss to nine-man Rangers in the Scottish League Cup final the previous Sunday, can hardly believe their fortune as Celtic, lacking in every aspect, collapses before them. The ill-advised decision to dismantle the team and attempt a rebuild during the January transfer window becomes glaringly evident to everyone witnessing the outcome.
Despite the news of Dundee United’s victory over Rangers in the Scottish Cup quarter-final, it does little to uplift the spirits of the disheartened Celtic troops following their disappointing defeat.