Early goal killed tie - Walker

Former Celtic striker Andy Walker said the Hoops' attempt at Champions League qualification "ended with a whimper". 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.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.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."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."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.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."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."As for Lennon, Walker added: "I think the fans are behind him but they would love to see more quality on the pitch."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."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."It's been very difficult. The supporters are looking for a lift."Celtic start their SPL campaign on August 14 with a trip to Inverness.

Source: Team_Talk