Celtic completed a domestic double with a straightforward 2-1 victory over Dunfermline in the Scottish Cup final at Hampden Park. The win raises questions about whether manager Martin O'Neill will be offered an extended stay at the club, despite his advancing age.
O'Neill's Future in the Balance
O'Neill, who has guided Celtic to back-to-back trophy successes in the final weeks of the season, is due to hold talks with major shareholder Dermot Desmond. The 74-year-old admitted he could not continue if the season started tomorrow, but acknowledged the Scottish season begins soon. O'Neill retains support from fans and players, but the club may opt for a younger coach like Robbie Keane.
Neil Lennon, the Dunfermline manager and former Celtic player, believes the decision should rest with O'Neill. Lennon endured a difficult end to his own second stint at Celtic, and appreciated the fans chanting his name during the final.
Match Report
The final was a non-event from early on, with Celtic taking control within the first half. Daizen Maeda opened the scoring in the 9th minute after a defensive error from Dunfermline's John Tod, lobbing goalkeeper Aston Oxborough. Arne Engels doubled the lead with a fierce low shot from 25 yards that Oxborough failed to save.
Dunfermline improved after the break, introducing Chris Kane and Zak Rudden to add physicality. Alfons Amade came close with a long-range effort, but Celtic's quality told. Kelechi Iheanacho scored the third goal from close range after a mazy run, though there was a hint of handball in the buildup. Dunfermline grabbed a consolation through substitute Josh Cooper, who tapped in after a blocked shot.
Dominant Force
Lennon admitted his side were startled by the occasion and faced vastly superior opposition. "Quality counts and the quality was with Celtic," he said. "The better team won, there is no question about that."
The buildup to the final was marred by sectarian abuse from Celtic fans directed at Hearts manager Derek McInnes, a predictable but disappointing note on an otherwise celebratory day for the champions.
