Half-Time Report: Helsingborg IF 0-1 Celtic

Kris Commons
© PA Photos
An early goal from Kris Commons gives Celtic a slender advantage against Helsingborg in the Champions League.

A second-minute goal from Kris Commons has given Celtic a 1-0 lead over Helsingborgs in the Champions League playoff round.

The game started at a frantic speed and Neil lennon's side were ahead in the second minute when Georgios Samaras delivered an accurate cross towards Commons at the back post and the midfielder volleyed past Par Hansson.

Despite the early breakthrough, Celtic found themselves on the back foot for most of the first half and Fraser Forster had to be alert to keep out Nikola Djurdjic's shot at the near post.

Thomas Sorum was handed the opportunity to level the scores when he was put through on goal but Forster was again on hand to push his weak effort past the post.

A slip from Adam Matthews gave Loret Sadiku a chance to beat Forster but the midfielder delayed his shot and Matthews recovered well to block the effort.

Celtic were unable to force more chances in the first period but their defence remained stubborn to hold the lead at the break.

Georgios Samaras
Read Next:
Result: HJK Helsinki 0-2 Celtic
>
Related Video
Tables
TeamPWDLFAGDPTS
1Celtic33237378255376
2Aberdeen33215756362068
3Hearts33179754332160
4Motherwell33135154149-844
5St Johnstone33127144851-343
6Ross County33134164855-743
7Dundee33914104849-141
8Partick Thistle33118143239-741
9Inverness Caledonian ThistleInverness331010134043-340
10Hamilton AcademicalHamilton3399153655-1936
11Kilmarnock3388173354-2132
12Dundee UnitedDundee Utd3366213358-2524