Richard Odada features for Dunde United in spirited Celtic draw as Zak Vyner's Bristol City suffer West Brom defeat

Richard Odada features for Dunde United in spirited Celtic draw as Zak Vyner's Bristol City suffer West Brom defeat

Mark Kinyanjui 20:30 - 22.12.2024

Odada featured as Dundee United frustrated Brendan Rodgers' Celtic to a draw, while Zak Vyner could not help Bristol City avoid defeat to West Brom.

Harambee Stars defensive prospect Zak Vyner featured at right-back for Bristol City but endured a challenging afternoon as his side succumbed to a 2-0 defeat against West Bromwich Albion in a Championship clash at The Hawthorns on Sunday.

Vyner made two clearances, blocked one shot, and managed an interception, but these contributions were not enough to offset a dominant West Brom display led by Mikey Johnston’s first-half brace.

The Albion struck early with their high-intensity play, forcing Cam Pring into a crucial block on Torbjorn Heggem’s snapshot inside the box. Johnston opened the scoring in the 34th minute, heading home from Tom Fellow’s pinpoint cross. 

Despite a promising moment for City when Luke McNally’s header forced Alex Palmer into a sharp save, the hosts doubled their lead just before halftime. Johnston curled a stunning effort into the top corner after a neat build-up from the Albion midfield.

In the second half, Bristol City showed improvement, with substitute Max Brid replacing Ross McCrorie to add more energy. 

Fally Mayulu’s powerful strike forced another save from Palmer, while Pring’s exceptional recovery tackle denied West Brom a third goal. However, the Robins’ attempts to claw back into the game were ultimately futile.

City now shifts focus to their Boxing Day clash against Luton Town at Ashton Gate.

Elsewhere, anothe Kenyan midfielder Richard Odada came on as a stoppage time substitute as  Dundee United produced a resolute performance to hold champions Celtic to a goalless draw in a windy Scottish Premiership encounter.

Odada’s presence in midfield helped the hosts maintain their defensive shape against a Celtic side that dominated possession but lacked a cutting edge. 

The draw marked another impressive result for Dundee United, who have lost just once in their last seven league matches since returning to the top flight.

Celtic, despite the dropped points, remain firmly in control of the title race with a nine-point lead over rivals Rangers. However, manager Brendan Rodgers had to field a makeshift lineup due to injuries and illness, with Alistair Johnston, Cameron Carter-Vickers, and Auston Trusty all sidelined.

For Dundee United, the result highlighted their growing confidence and defensive solidity, offering hope as they navigate the challenges of the Premiership season. Odada’s performance further bolstered his credentials as a key figure for both club and country.

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