JEFFERIES DELIGHTED WITH KILLIE PERFORMANCE

Last updated : 15 August 2004 By Brian Murray
It was an unusual media conference at Rugby Park after Celtic's 4-2 victory where the defeated manager was happier than the winner.

Martin O'Neill mirrored his side's distracted demeanour. Perhaps Bobo Balde's virus is causong more concern that O'Neill cared to admit, but he was certainly in less ebullient mood than we have come to expect. He was quick to praise Killie's effort, admitting that David Lilley's red card spoiled a great game.

"This was far from an easy fixture. Kilmarnock played really well, and I was delighted when the third goal went in. At two two it was a really exciting match, but the sending off was unfortunate."

He revealed the reason for Balde's absence after being cleared of suspension. Looking uncomfortable as he spoke, O'Neill said "He's been ill. He had some tests in America which came back negative. It's a malaria-type thing. He has been training, so it should be a matter of days before he's back."

Jim Jefferies was proud of his team's efforts. He said "We were great. We were the better side in the first half, it's the best we've played for a long time. Kris Boyd caused them problems all day and Gary MacDonald was absolutely outstanding."

The Killie boss refused to be drawn into controversy. Perhaps wary of the warning meted out to Billy Brown after criticising Mike McCurry the last time Celtic came to town, Jefferies supported the ref's decision. "If you handle the ball as last man, you have to go off. I was more disappointed when the ball went through the wall for the third goal."

Whether he feels the same behind closed doors is debatable.

David Lilley also played with a stright bat as he sat stoney-faced. " I was naive. I felt there was a wee push, but I shouldn't have put my hands up. I'll need to see it again to be sure. The boss says I'll earn from the experience. I'm really disappointed because I gave the lads a mountain to climb."