Celtic managed to beat Hearts 4-3 in a game marred in controversy, with most of the conversation surrounding the introduction of VAR in Scotland. Well, on the day, the system created more problems than solve with its decision making and raised questions about how it is gonna look in the long term.
The two things that VAR needs to do is make sure that there are no glaring errors made by the on-field referees and that the system takes these decisions quickly so that the flow of the game is not interrupted. Neither ended up happening on this day.
The biggest controversy was surrounding what looked like a stonewall penalty for Celtic when James Forrest’s flick clearly struck the arm of Michael Smith but it was not given.
It is pretty safe to say that Celtic have not received a lot of penalties this season, even though some rival managers have claimed that the Hoops get the majority of the referees’ decisions. Ange Postecoglou seems to have had enough of that narrative. As reported by Football Scotland, he said:
"“I thought we had a clear-cut handball, so what do I know? Even on TV apparently, that’s not good enough. We haven’t had a penalty all year. I keep hearing opposition managers saying we (Celtic) get everything. The only penalties we’ve taken so far are training, so I’m looking forward to it.”"
Postecoglou not happy as Celtic were denied penalty even with VAR in place
It is safe to say that that looked like a clear penalty for Celtic but even with VAR in place, it was not given. The referee did point to the spot on two occasions on the day though, with both going to Hearts.
Lawrence Shankland did convert both, even though one had to be retaken, but ultimately, Celtic walked out with a 4-3 win.
On the other hand, the Rangers could only manage a 1-1 draw vs Livingston, which meant that Celtic are now four points clear at the top of the table. Thus, while today’s game might have been a frustrating watch at times for the Hoops fans, ultimately, it was a good day as they extended their lead.