Continental Composure

James Forrest is delighted that Celtics experience in Europe is coming to the fore

- Tony Connelly

AS one of the most experienced players in the Celtic team, James Forrest knows only too well how important it is too stay focused when the pressure is on. It’s this attribute which he credits with helping get a crucial win in the Europa League group-stage opener and will continue to be vital in the important games ahead.

Rosenborg made for a difficult night last week as Celtic kicked off their Europa League group stage campaign. The Hoops dominated the game and created opportunities but it wasn’t until three minutes from time that the goal finally came after Leigh Griffiths headed home

Forrest said: “We were only a couple of minutes away from being frustrated and only getting a point but the boys stuck at. Getting the goal late on turned what had been a really frustrating night up until that point into a really positive night.

“We kept a clean sheet and got three points so we’re raring to go in competition now. “We scored a last-gasp goal which is always exciting for everyone in the changing room so we’re all still buzzing from a good ending to the game.

“Had that been a draw it would have felt like a bit of a blow but we’ve picked ourselves up from disappointing results before so we don’t let these things have a knock on effect. We got the win, though, so we can be positive looking towards the next game in this group now.

“I was delighted for Griff to come on and score and all-round it’s a really positive result for us in this group. If we can take confidence in that hopefully we can really kick on in the group.”

Griffiths started the game on the bench but when he was called upon, he duly delivered with a late goal that sent Paradise into hysteria. Forrest was full of praise for his team-mate and is confident he will continue to make a valuable contribution in the big games ahead.