The game between Celtic and Hearts turned out to be a bit of a spectacle, with most of the pre-match conversation surrounding VAR. Well, the system did make its presence felt as well, and unfortunately for the Hoops, most of the decisions went against them on the day. The most glaring was perhaps a stonewall penalty that was not given to them.
Ultimately, Celtic were able to come good at the end, with a goal from Greg Taylor sealing the win and all three points. James Forrest, Giorgos Giakoumakis and Daizen Maeda were on the score sheet as well. For Hearts, Lawrence Shankland scored a hattrick, with two coming from the spot.
The day ended up well for Celtic though. While Taylor’s goal won them the game, at Ibrox, the Rangers could only draw 1-1 against Livingston, meaning the Hoops are now four points clear at the top of the table.
Even coming into the game Ange Postecoglou had not sounded like a big fan of the idea of introducing VAR and afterwards, he did not sound too impressed either. While speaking to Sky Sports, and as reported by The Scottish Sun, the Celtic manager said regarding the matter:
"“Cracking game, what do I know? VAR, starring role, three points.“Credit to the lads it’s not easy coming here, their crowd is up and about, the conditions the way the are, it’s always going to be a 50/50 game and with the whole circus around VAR it becomes anything but the football.“For us, within that context just to stick to try and play our football and finding a way to win is credit to the lads.“As I said before the game, I would much prefer if it wasn’t involved at all but I thought we had a clear cut handball, but what do I know, mate?“It’s a lot of standing about, a lot of theatre, like I said I just wish they’d get decisions early and sort of intervene when they have to. It is what it is, I’m probably on the outside on this one.”"
Celtic boss gives brutal verdict on VAR after game against Hearts
When used right, there is no doubt that VAR can be a benefit to the game and eradicate a lot of the errors that the referees end up making.
Of course, there are huge question marks about it after the game between Celtic and Hearts, as a lot of decisions left the fans scratching their heads.
Thankfully, it did not end up having an impact on the result of the game and Celtic got themselves a deserving win but on another day, that might not have been the case. If VAR is going to be used, it has to done right and efficiently at the same time.