Scottish Premeriship giants Celtic were dumped out of the Europa League on Thursday with Dorus de Vries suffering a nightmare in goal.
Celtic fans were worried about the prospect of their seldom seen, veteran goalkeeper Dorus de Vries lining up against Zenit St Petersburg’s prolific attack in the Europa League round of 32.
And, on last night’s evidence, they had good reason to be fearful. Leading 1-0 from the first-leg via a Callum McGregor goal, the Russian giants quickly and comfortably dispatched Brendan Rodgers’ side with a 3-0 win.
It is fair to say De Vries, who was deceived by a swerving long-range shot by Daler Kuzyaev for Zenit’s second, did not exactly cover himself in glory.
But could a crucial error from the understudy ‘keeper present an opportunity for Scott Bain to kickstart his Celtic career?
Bain, 11 years De Vries’ junior, joined the Hoops on loan from Dundee on transfer deadline day until the end of the season but has not made a single appearance for Brendan Rodgers’ side so far.
But De Vries’ latest high-profile error should surely lead Rodgers to give Bain a chance. He might not be a ‘keeper of Gordon’s class or experience, but he has developed a reputation at Dundee as a very reliable shot-stopper in Scotland.
And with Celtic facing a potentially crucial clash with Aberdeen on Sunday, their lead at the top will be cut to six points if Rangers win 24 hours earlier, Bhoys fans think it is about time Bain got his chance.
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