Celtic were justified in their frustration over the goal awarded to Kilmarnock during their Scottish Cup clash, according to Keith Hackett.
The former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee told Football Insider that VAR may have reviewed the wrong player in the build-up to the goal, which sparked controversy during the match.
Brendan Rodgers’ side secured a place in the competition’s fifth round with a 2-1 victory over Kilmarnock on Saturday (18 January).
However, the decision to allow Kilmarnock’s equaliser left Celtic questioning the officials’ judgment, and Hackett believes their complaints are warranted.
As the first half drew to a close at Parkhead, Celtic held a 1-0 lead when Kilmarnock found an equaliser. Fraser Murray’s cross from the left deflected off Robbie Deas’ arm inside the penalty area, redirecting the ball to Bobby Wales at the far post.
The young striker capitalized on the opportunity, scoring from close range, with VAR confirming the goal as valid.
Celtic were left frustrated by the decision, and Hackett suggested the officials may have overlooked a key aspect of the incident. Speaking about the controversy, he explained:
“I genuinely think that Celtic have a good case because the player in the middle has made his body shape, his silhouette larger, the ball has struck his arm, it’s deflected off.
“I wonder if VAR actually looked at the right incident. I wonder if they were looking at the guy who scored the goal rather than actually the handball in the build-up.
“But that player’s guilty of handball. I think he’s clearly made his body shape, by stretching his arm forward, he knows what he’s doing and it’s come off his arm and to his colleague.
“So for me I think the goal should have been ruled out. I think Celtic have got a good case, it was handball and I’m surprised that VAR didn’t clarify that point.”
Ultimately, Daizen Maeda’s second-half strike secured victory for Celtic, ensuring that the contentious goal didn’t derail their progress. Still, the incident has added to the ongoing debate over officiating standards and VAR decisions in the Scottish game.
Celtic, who have benefited from contentious calls in cup competitions this season, will now look to avoid similar situations as they continue their quest for silverware.
Their immediate attention shifts to an important Champions League fixture against Swiss side Young Boys on Wednesday night (22 January).
