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Glasgow Live
Glasgow Live
Sport
Alan Galindo

Celtic star Matt O'Riley in '365 shots' quip as he reflects on goal and competition for places

Matt O'Riley made a '365 shots' quip as he opened up on is Celtic goal and his fight to get back into the starting team.

The Hoops star climbed off the bench in the Scottish Cup clash with St Mirren and netted Ange Postecoglou and Co's fourth of the afternoon in a thumping 5-1 win. Daizen Maeda, Hyeon-gyu Oh, O'Riley and Reo Hatate's double secured safe passage to Monday's quarter-final draw and keeps hopes of a potential Treble this season alive and kicking.

Speaking about his strike in the Parkhead thriller, he said: "It's been a long time coming. I think I've had about 365 shots so it was good to see one go in! I'm just happy whenever I get on the pitch. I always try to contribute and I did today." O'Riley joined from MK Dons just over a year ago and has been a regular in the Celtic side but lately he's had to make do with cameo appearances from the bench. That's much down to the form of Aaron Mooy who continues to get better as the games pass.

READ MORE: Celtic hero Scott Brown in 'exceptional' Fleetwood Town tag he reveals half-time message at Charlton

He added: "Our strength in depth was evident but it shows most weeks. Everyone wants to play at a really high level.

"As long as we're all helping out there's no need for frustration. The team is winning and we're in a good place.

"I've got an edge coming on. Aaron Mooy has been in great form but all four No 8s are playing well. There's a competitiveness in training and that makes us better.

"When I arrived, I had the same thing with Tom Rogic. I was grateful every time I got the chance. Of course, I'd like to start every game but I understand the manager's choice comes first.

"I just try to contribute whenever I get the chance."

READ NEXT:

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- Stephen Robinson questions Celtic VAR penalty call as 'clear and obvious' but admits he needs second look

- Celtic player ratings as Hyeon-gyu Oh strikes and Daizen Maeda shines in ruthless Scottish Cup win

- Ange Postecoglou in Leeds United link nine word response as Celtic boss insists 'focus' on Parkhead

- The Aaron Mooy Celtic 'surprise' factor as Ange Postecoglou must take credit for 'remarkable' role

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