Source: Team_Talk
Early goal killed tie - Walker
Former Celtic striker Andy Walker said the Hoops' attempt at Champions League qualification "ended with a whimper".[LNB] Neil Lennon's side, facing an uphill task against Braga following a 3-0 defeat in the first leg of the third qualifying round tie, lost last night's rematch 2-1 for a 4-2 aggregate exit.[LNB]Celtic's efforts were snuffed out when the Portuguese side took a first-half lead - meaning the home side needed to score five goals to qualify.[LNB]Walker said: "Chasing three goals I thought they would play at a high intensity and have plenty of efforts at goal - but I didn't count any in the first half.[LNB]"The goal they conceded killed the tie completely and the atmosphere. Celtic didn't give their supporters anything to get excited about and in the end I think they went out with a whimper."[LNB]Walker acknowledged the financial implications of the Clydesdale Bank Premier League side missing out on Champions League football this season - but believes they have found their level in the Europa League.[LNB]He added on Sky Sports News: "Financially it (the Champions League) is everything but in all honesty this group of players have found their level for the last couple of years.[LNB]"They've failed on the home front, which gives direct access to the Champions League. The Europa League is the second tier of European competition and I think that's where they should perform."[LNB]As for Lennon, Walker added: "I think the fans are behind him but they would love to see more quality on the pitch.[LNB]"Celtic gave (previous manager) Tony Mowbray the opportunity to turn the whole club around and he went and signed players on three or four-year contracts.[LNB]"Now some of those players are unfancied by Neil Lennon. He has brought his own players in and given them three or four-year contracts.[LNB]"It's been very difficult. The supporters are looking for a lift."[LNB]Celtic start their SPL campaign on August 14 with a trip to Inverness.
