ZeeboiCeltic’s 5-2 victory over St Mirren was not without its share of drama.
Brendan Rodgers ultimately witnessed his Bhoys secure a hard-fought win, though injuries to Celtic duo Callum McGregor and Auston Trusty forced them off the pitch during the match.
The goals came from Jeffrey Schlupp, Daizen Maeda, Arne Engels, and a brace from Celtic’s standout performer Hyunjun Yang, ensuring the three points that extended their lead at the top of the Scottish Premiership table to 16 points.
However, the Alistair Johnston ‘penalty’ incident has dominated the headlines, prompting two former SFA referees to weigh in on the challenge and dismiss Kris Boyd’s recent claims about the fullback’s tackle.
What Kris Boyd said about Alistair Johnston’s tackle in Celtic’s win vs St Mirren:
Boyd stated on Go Ballistic [21m], “I mean, it’s a stonewall penalty, probably verging on a red card as well in terms of where the foot went.
“It was above the ankle, so Celtic got away with one there, and that’s not to say they wouldn’t have gone on to win the game.
“But I would like to have seen the outcry if it was the other end of the pitch, that’s for sure.”
Former SFA referees dismiss Kris Boyd’s Celtic red card claim:
While many Celtic fans might agree with Boyd’s assertion that St Mirren likely deserved a penalty, the idea of a red card is contested by former SFA referees Des Roache and Steve Conroy.
Roache commented on The Refs View [16m], “Alistair Johnston has dived in, he has taken the boy right out. People at work, supporters, will say it’s a red card – I don’t think it’s a red card.
“It’s a penalty kick. Johnston has been very fortunate over the last couple of years – but I am not using words like ‘dark arts’ and things – it’s just a foul.”
Roache’s co-host, Steve Conroy, echoed this sentiment, saying, “I think it was well worthy of a penalty.
“I think it was a high-tariff yellow card or an orange card – but he was a bloody lucky boy. All refs miss things, but I can’t believe that VAR, after having a quick look, didn’t think that was worthy of an on-field review.”
With that matter settled, Celtic now turn their attention to a crucial upcoming match as Brendan Rodgers aims to secure his third treble as the Hoops’ manager.
Hibs will pose a significant challenge, especially after their recent victory over Hearts, which has undoubtedly boosted David Gray’s squad’s confidence.
However, with ten goals scored in their last two games, Rodgers will be optimistic that his team has the firepower to propel Celtic into the semi-final of the Scottish Cup this Sunday.
Zeeboi
