Despite Hatate’s dismissal in the 34th minute, Celtic put in a strong defensive performance, with Trusty’s goal from a rare second attack reaching the Bologna area.
The Celtic defense cleared attack after attack from the Bologna side, as Trusty and Liam Scales stood firm against a powerful Bologna onslaught.
The home side dominated possession, pinning Celtic back in their own half and recording 63 touches inside the Celtic box.
Despite this, Celtic’s defense was bypassed with surprising ease when Dallinga’s header found the net, narrowly beating Schmeichel. The Danish professional Schmeichel then remained rooted to his spot as a powerful shot from Rowe flew over his head.
“There will be a sense of ‘what could have been?’ — and I think Schmeichel could have performed better on both goals,” said James McFadden, the former Scotland goalkeeper. “So, there will be mixed emotions.”
O’Neill questioned whether Schmeichel had failed to see Rowe on the goal-scoring shot, but chose instead to focus his attention on his defenders’ efforts in the costly loss.
Trusty alone made 17 clearances and 3 blocks, leading the visitors’ few defenders with great bravery.
“Trusty was excellent, as he has been during my time here,” O’Neill said. “I can’t praise him enough; he was absolutely excellent, as was the team. He and Scales have been excellent as a defensive pairing since I’ve been here, and my expectations for them are very high.”
“Trusty embodied the spirit of the team tonight. He was great and is keeping us in the competition for at least one more week.”
Another former Celtic manager also praised the way the team fought for a point.
“Fantastic character from the players,” said Neil Lennon. “You can see what it means to them.”
“Auston Trusty and Liam Scales were giants. They needed to defend a huge number of clearances.”
“It’s a big point.”
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