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Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers was elated following his team's impressive 4-0 triumph over DC United, a striking reversal of their previous encounter's scoreline. Speaking to Gerry McCulloch from Celtic TV, Rodgers commended the unwavering support of the Celtic fans and emphasized the team's intense preparation and performance, undeterred by the challenging pitch conditions.
Rodgers highlighted the presence of the club's new signing at the match, noting the immense support from the Celtic fans who filled the stadium and greeted the players outside their hotel. The atmosphere left a strong impression on the new arrival, showcasing the passion and dedication of the Celtic community.
"Celtic is a massive club with a tight-knit family atmosphere," Rodgers remarked. "Our new player will experience the unique support of the Celtic family. He grew up in a football environment, and the enthusiasm of our fans will resonate with him during his time here."
The preseason tour in the U.S. began on a high note for Celtic with a decisive 4-0 win over DC United. Captain Matt O’Riley led the charge with a seven-minute brace in the first half, followed by second-half goals from substitutes Mikey Johnston and James Forrest.
Summer signing Viljami Sinisalo made a notable debut, playing 45 minutes off the bench, while several young talents, including 17-year-old Colby Donovan, 20-year-old Matthew Anderson, and 21-year-old Dane Murray, also featured prominently.
Rodgers praised the team's dynamic and technically proficient performance, particularly their adaptability to the pitch conditions.
"We scored four goals and our young players seized their opportunities. It was a productive exercise, and we aim to carry this momentum into our remaining preseason matches," Rodgers commented.
O’Riley opened the scoring in the 25th minute, capitalizing on a defensive lapse from DC United following a cross by Tomoki Iwata. He doubled the lead seven minutes later, converting a rebound from Kyogo’s initial shot.
Johnston extended the lead to 3-0 in the 65th minute, finishing off a precise cross from Forrest. Yang, another halftime substitute, set up the final goal, assisting Forrest for a simple tap-in.
Goalkeepers Sinisalo and Scott Bain shared the clean sheet, each playing 45 minutes. Johnston missed an opportunity for a second goal late in the game, with DC United’s Nathan Crockford saving his penalty kick.
Additional players, including Dane Murray, Yuki Kobayashi, Callum McGregor, Bosun Lawal, Greg Taylor, Francis Turley, and Odin Holm, gained crucial minutes to build their fitness levels. Celtic's preseason continues with matches against Manchester City on July 23 in Chapel Hill, N.C., and Chelsea on July 27 in South Bend, Ind.
Rodgers expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming fixtures, viewing them as excellent preparation against familiar, top-tier opponents. "We might be ahead in our schedule, but it should be a great test for us," Rodgers concluded.
