Cha Du-ri gets first assist of the season

Korean defender Cha Du-ri got his first assist of the season, contributing to Celtic FC’s 2-1 win over Kilmarnock in the Scottish Premier League on Saturday.

Cha, 31, started the 20th round of the SPL match with his compatriot Ki Sung-yueng and marked his first assist of the season after setting up Greek striker Georgios Samaras’ first goal at the end of the first half.

Cha, the right back, delivered a ball from the right flank and Samaras was able to convert the cross with a header after out-jumping Kilmarnock defender Mohamadou Sissoko and beating goalkeeper Cammy Bell.

Celtic later doubled its advantage in the 53rd minute, thanks to Samaras again, but allowed one goal to Kilmarnock’s Danny Racchi in the 87th to finish the match 2-1.

The Hoops are now one point behind the league leaders and archrival Rangers who suffered a shocking 2-1 defeat to St. Mirren on Saturday. The two teams are scheduled to square off on Wednesday.

For Cha, it was his first contribution to a Celtic’s victory after playing in 13 matches this season. He has recently started in the last five games, including one UEFA Europa League match.

[kjoo@joongang.co.kr]