Gemmell lays into generous Celtic defence

LISBON LION Tommy Gemmell believes defensive frailties have contributed to Celtic's poor form which sees them lie ten points behind Rangers with 13 games remaining in the Clydesdale Bank Scottish Premier League.

The pressure is again on Tony Mowbray after the Bhoys lost the lead three times in a remarkable 4-4 draw against Aberdeen at Pittodrie on Saturday, while Darren O'Dea was sent off in the final stages after picking up a second yellow for a foul on Dons midfielder Gary McDonald.

Gemmell, who played left-back for the Celtic side which won the European Cup in 1967, said: "The big disappointment for Celtic fans is that they are losing too many goals that could be prevented.

"That is not a sign of a championship-winning team.

"If you don't lose goals then it is easier to win games.

"But Celtic know the situation they are in now."

The Pittodrie fixture was shrouded in controversy when it was reported Aberdeen boss Mark McGhee – a former Celtic striker and self-confessed Hoops fan – was set to field a weakened team with one eye on the Scottish Cup replay against Raith Rovers tomorrow night.

An irate McGhee cancelled his regular pre-match press conference as a result of those reports, and after the game talked about the "scandalous" way in which his integrity had been questioned.