By SCOTT MULLEN

JIM DUFFY was delighted with the way his Morton players have applied themselves over a gruelling week.

The Ton played three matches within five days over the weekend, culminating in a tough test against a Celtic XI in Andy Bryan’s testimonial.

Despite going down 3-1 on the night at Cappielow, it was a strong performance from the Ladbrokes Championship newcomers, particularly in a bright first half that could easily have seen them go into the break level.

His players began to tire in the second half as Celtic’s class came to the fore, but Morton boss Duffy was delighted with the work rate and attitude of his men.

He said: “It was a good game played at a good pace. I’ve seen testimonials played like testimonials, but the game with Celtic wasn’t one of them.

“It was competitive and had real good pace to it. Celtic were very good, you could see that from the way they moved the ball and of course the real quality players they have. Eoghan O’Connell was a class act at the back and obviously you have Stefan Scepovic and Anthony Stokes too.

“They have a lot of really talented young players but in the first half I thought we played really well. We passed the ball really well, created good chances and gave away two poor goals from our point of view.

“But the second half I thought Celtic become quicker and moved the ball well as we started to look a bit leg-weary. It was our third game in five days not to mention training in between them so maybe there was a little bit of an edge missing.

“Overall there were some good things and I enjoyed the game.”

Duffy also paid tribute to the hero of the hour Bryan, the Morton kitman who was being celebrated for his 40-year service to the club.

The Ton manager added: “I’m delighted for Andy. That was what the game was about – paying tribute to someone who has displayed unbelievable commitment to a football club.

“The game was great for us but this was about someone has worked tirelessly for Morton football club.”