The SFA’s Key Match Incident (KMI) panel has found itself under the spotlight, particularly for ruling that Reo Hatate should have been sent off during Celtic’s 2-0 victory over Kilmarnock.
However, the panel’s decision to overlook another contentious moment from the same match has left many scratching their heads.
The incident in question involved Kilmarnock’s Liam Donnelly and Celtic goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel.
Late in the game, Donnelly appeared to deliberately extend his elbow as he ran past Schmeichel, striking the Danish keeper in the torso.
Schmeichel’s reaction was immediate and furious, clearly interpreting the act as intentional.
Despite the obvious intent behind Donnelly’s actions, referee Nick Walsh opted to issue only a yellow card. Many, including Schmeichel, felt that the offence warranted a harsher punishment.
Yet, the KMI panel has reportedly chosen not to review the incident further, and VAR failed to intervene during the match.
This decision raises serious questions about the consistency of post-match reviews and officiating standards.
Celtic fans are understandably perplexed by the panel’s focus on Hatate’s late challenge while seemingly ignoring an act of potential violent conduct.
The rules on violent behaviour are clear: intent alone is sufficient grounds for serious sanction, irrespective of the outcome.
Donnelly’s elbow was neither accidental nor part of any attempt to play the ball. His actions were reckless and deliberate, deserving of more than a caution.
The panel’s dismissal of such behaviour sends the wrong message about fair play and player safety.
Schmeichel’s reaction at the time spoke volumes; his anger was a natural response to a challenge that could easily have resulted in injury.
Allowing Donnelly to escape with only a booking represents a missed opportunity to address an act of aggression that undermines the sport’s integrity. The inconsistency in how these incidents are handled remains a significant concern.
While much of the focus has been on Hatate, it is essential that incidents like Donnelly’s elbow receive the same scrutiny. If the KMI panel aims to uphold the game’s standards, it cannot afford to overlook such blatant offences.
As Celtic gear up for a busy schedule, the lack of action on this matter continues to rankle. Their next test is a return to Tynecastle, where they suffered a 2-0 defeat last time amid controversial officiating decisions. This time, Celtic will hope for stronger officiating in the capital.