Celtic-Rangers controversy takes massive new twist as Willie Collum issues statement following VARs errors in awarding penalty to Rangers in League Cup final

Kris Boyd has claimed that Alan Muir and Frank Connor’s careers could be in jeopardy following the “serious” penalty controversy during Rangers’ Scottish League Cup final defeat to Celtic.

The match ended in a dramatic penalty shootout after a 3-3 draw, but a contentious decision in extra time has overshadowed the Hoops’ victory.

Rangers were denied a clear penalty for a foul on Vaclav Cerny inside the box, a decision missed by both the on-field officials and the VAR team.

The Scottish FA later released a statement in which Head of Referees Willie Collum admitted the officials’ error, describing it as “unacceptable.”

However, SFA chief Ian Maxwell dismissed the mistake as “human nature,” prompting outrage from fans and pundits alike.

Writing in The Scottish Sun, Boyd expressed his frustration, calling for accountability:

“It’s serious for Willie Collum, who clearly feels hurt and let down by his own VAR officials after the huge blunder.

“And it’s serious for Alan Muir and Frank Connor, whose careers are on the line, after failing to award that spot-kick to Rangers in extra-time against Celtic with the game balanced at 3-3.

“Maxwell shouldn’t have waited until Wednesday to address an issue which has dominated the Scottish football agenda all week.

“If only the rest of the SFA hierarchy took it so seriously.”

Fans Demand Action

Rangers supporters have reacted furiously to the decision, calling for the referees involved to face consequences and even suggesting a replay of the final.

While Collum’s response has shown he takes the issue seriously, Maxwell’s casual remarks have been criticized for undermining the gravity of the situation.

The incident has also sparked online debates, with Celtic fans mocking the controversy while Rangers supporters demand justice.

Boyd insists that while such mistakes are unacceptable, Rangers must rise above the fallout and focus on delivering results if they hope to win silverware this season.

For Rangers manager Philippe Clement, the result was a missed opportunity to secure his first trophy and silence doubts about his future, though his improved form has earned him the board’s support for now.

However, this controversy will continue to cast a shadow over the SFA’s officiating standards unless significant reforms are introduced.