The Light Blues were awarded a spot kick after a VAR climbdown by John Beaton
Although there are always thrills and spills in the Old Firm rivalry, yesterday’s game felt like it could have contained enough action to last a whole season.
Rangers twice overcame a deficit thanks to six goals, one penalty apiece, and two goals in stoppage time. These days, VAR is almost certain to be engaged; in fact, it was involved in the majority of the judgements to heighten the drama, and as we have come to expect, there has been a great deal of discussion over the decisions.
Referee John Beaton did not first call Connor Goldson’s handball a penalty for Celtic, but after a review, he did. That one doesn’t seem to have encountered much opposition, but the Gers were helped by the spot kick that was granted at the other end back into the game has proved controversial.
After being challenged more than once, Fabio Silva pounded the turf in response to an Alistair Johnston challenge. At first, Beaton gave the Canadian full-back a yellow card for diving while he smiled at his opponent.
However, after being requested to take another look by VAR, the referee eventually pointed to the spot, where James Tavernier’s header put his team within a goal. Although it appeared as though Johnston was already going down, replays reveal that he got a touch on the ball before the forward was caught on his knees.
Commentator Neil McCann said the officials made the right choice despite the disagreement.
According to the former Ibrox winger, Silva made a beautiful little chop, as Sportscene on BBC Scotland reported. It seems like you’re holding off on making a decision. Does Alistair Johnston get a touch on the ball, or is it a dive? He scratches the ball.
“But we’ll explain why it’s awarded and why the referee is urged to check it out using VAR.
“The moment he extends his leg, he takes a risk. Takes over Silva with a knee kick. John Beaton is therefore invited to visit and discuss the choice to reserve Silva’s diving.
“Observe how Johnston’s leg quivers in opposition to Silva. It eliminates him. I think this is the reason John Beaton is encouraged to go look at it. It’s also the reason I think Rangers should have received a penalty, which is what I felt should have happened.”
Although Peter Grant, a former Celtic midfielder, acknowledges that he was unable to seriously dispute Silva’s actions during the game, he did have a message for him.
“I initially believed it to be a punishment,” he said. “However, after viewing the replays and he got the touch you start to question it.
