Rangers claim DDF Legends title with win over Celtic

Denzil Pinto 10:47 24/10/2015
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  • Marvin Andrews takes a shot for Rangers.

    Rangers defeated rivals Celtic 3-2 to triumph in the Dubai Duty Free Football Legends tournament as former stars rolled back the years and showcased their skills.

    Charlie Miller settled a thrilling Old Firm derby final at Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium to deny Celtic after braces from Marvin Andrews and Bobby Petta had leveled the score 2-2.

    It was a strong finish for Rangers who won all their games, ending up ahead of Celtic, Liverpool and Manchester United.

    John Barnes, Viv Anderson, Patrik Berger and Vladimir Smicer were all among the stars to feature in the five-a-side tournament and they didn’t disappoint the crowd.

    Celtic led by Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink, tasted success against Liverpool and Manchester United. And Liverpool claimed the bragging rights with three points against their fiercest rivals United, who lost all their games.

    After some exciting encounters, the fans were in for a treat in the Old Firm derby. It may have been an exhibition tournament, but the players ensured there was no love lost on the pitch.

    Vennegoor of Hesselink (l) in his Celtic prime.

    After Celtic missed an early chance, Andrews made them pay with a strike to put Rangers 1-0 up. Michael Mols, winner of two Scottish League titles in his fiveyear stay, nearly doubled the lead but his shot was well saved.

    Celtic found their rhythm as Regi Blinker and Petta showed glimpses of their potential which briefly threatened Rangers.

    Vennegoor of Hesselink, who was in lethal form at Parkhead scoring 34 times in 78 appearances in a successful stint which saw him win two Scottish Premiership titles, saw his efforts well blocked by Rangers.

    But Andrews doubled his tally for the game, making no mistake from four yards out to slot home. With plenty at stake, Celtic were rewarded for their efforts as Petta pulled it back before scoring the equaliser late on.

    In a tense finish, it was Rangers who were celebrating as Miller slotted home for the eventual decider.

    And for Andrews, victory was certainly sweet. The defender said: “As ex-players we all want to win and even though we are retired, we are still representing the clubs. We are absolutely thrilled to be winning this tournament by beating Celtic.

    “I’m a defender, so to score two goals and for it to help my team win is great. We all enjoyed playing together and the crowed really enjoyed it as well, so I hope to be back again soon.”

    For Barnes, it brought back memories of playing the game at the same venue. He said: “It was 12 years ago that I played on this pitch and it was easier than.

    “I’m 51 but it’s still good to play in Dubai as I get to meet my ex-team mates and other footballers from other sides. Overall, it’s a great tournament to be part of.”

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