Sandman’s Definitive Ratings – Estadio Sticklebrick v Celtic

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KATIE – 7.5/10 MOTM – The controversial KT came through like a champ in that second 45; battered, harassed, rumbled – he battled and subdued the dangerous big beast breathing down his neck and clawing him out of the air. This stoical, understated professionalism is why he remains a prize asset, a perfect fit for a new system that requires versatile Centre Back/Full-Back and gritty influence to carry his mentally-fragile side through testing 90 minutes like these.

Celtic Manager Wilfried Nancy and Auston Trusty

Celtic Manager Wilfried Nancy and Auston Trusty of Celtic during the Scottish Premiership match between Livingston and Celtic at Set Fare Arena on December 27, 2025 in Livingston. (Photo by WM Sport Media/Getty Images)

CALMAC – 5.5/10 – Who ate too much Xmas pud? There’s always one and, surprisingly, today it appeared to be Calmac. Did well to wrestle us back into the lead after that opening madness, but when you expected him to take control and close the game down after half-time, his slackness and impotence was concerning as we were far too open through the middle.

Benjamin Nygren of Celtic celebrates

Benjamin Nygren of Celtic celebrates scoring during the Scottish Premiership match between Livingston and Celtic at Set Fare Arena on December 27, 2025. (Photo by WM Sport Media/Getty Images)

NEGAN – 7/10 – Well, just when you thought he might’ve been scrubbed from the team-sheet, back he comes with a couple of performances you can’t ignore. And that knack of scoring vital goals may yet keep him in a hooped jersey, particularly when it looks like he’s channelling the Ghost Of Rogic Past, pinging in the third. Faded sharply into the second period but his contribution was match-winning.

Arne Engels of Celtic scores from the spot

Arne Engels of Celtic scores from the spot during the Scottish Premiership match between Livingston and Celtic at Set Fare Arena on December 27, 2025. (Photo by WM Sport Media/Getty Images)

THE TERMINATOR – 6/10 – Well, Arne can tackle – rousing cheer for him scudding one of them for cheek with a well-executed slider. And though he sat deep today he still maintains a useful sharpness of wit, and has the balls to take the pens with Elvis ’68 Comeback Special coolness So… Keep going.

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About Author

The Celtic Star founder and editor David Faulds has edited numerous Celtic books over the past decade or so including several from Lisbon Lions, Willie Wallace, Tommy Gemmell and Jim Craig. Earliest Celtic memories include a win over East Fife at Celtic Park and the 4-1 League Cup loss to Partick Thistle as a 6 year old. Best game? Easy 4-2, 1979 when Ten Men Won the League. Email [email protected]

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5 Comments

  1. Is this cunt meant to be patter.

    Like is this a thing? Biggest lot of shite i have read in a long time.

    Your not funny. Tosser

    • LOL, wee Steve’s learned to read.

      But not spell. It’s “you’re”, Steven. As in “You are”. Not “your”.

      As in, you’re a retard.

      See? I blame the schools.

      But thanks for playing…

  2. Where have you been? He’s been doing this for years and yes people often find it funny. No one is forcing you to read it and get sand in your vagina over it.

    • Aye, pile on Tony with your Playstation FIFA virgin buddies.

      Like you did with Mick Lustig.

      Couldn’t kick yer own arse of a day, but can condemn a Celtic legend…

      Pfft.