Niall Mcgilp

Greenock Morton defeated second-placed Celtic 2–1 at Cappielow in November 1984 despite entering the match near the bottom of the Premier League and facing sustained pressure from the visitors. Maurice Johnston gave Celtic an early lead, but Jim Gillespie scored twice, including a late diving header, to secure a memorable Morton victory in heavy rain. The result proved an isolated success: Morton later suffered a 7–0 defeat to Dundee United, finished bottom with only five wins from 36 matches and conceded 100 goals, prompting Willie McLean's resignation.

Greenock Morton have played roughly 100 friendlies and challenge matches against nearly 60 English clubs since 1886. The article highlights notable encounters including matches against Barnsley, Chelsea, Crystal Palace, Leeds United, Arsenal and Aston Villa, while explaining how chairman Hal Stewart used glamour friendlies in the 1960s and 1970s to raise Morton's profile, test the team against elite opposition and generate revenue. From the 1980s onward, pre-season matches became less meaningful and supporter interest declined, with the most recent eight home games against English opposition averaging just 684 spectators.