Controversial VAR Call Costs Celtic an Equalizing Goal
The world of Scottish football is no stranger to drama, but the recent clash between Celtic and Hibernian brought VAR (Video Assistant Referee) into the spotlight once again. Celtic's fortunes took a hit with a 2-1 defeat, yet the decisive moment overshadowing the match was the disallowed goal by Daizen Maeda, which sparked a fresh wave of controversy around the use of technology in the sport.
The incident unfolded in the 76th minute when Maeda's goal, which could have been Celtic's equalizer, was ruled out. The decision rested on whether the ball had gone out of play before reaching Maeda. Referee Steven McLean confirmed that VAR had deemed the ball to have been 'factually out,' but that assertion prompted skepticism from Celtic's manager, Brendan Rodgers.
Rodgers, never one to shy away from expressing his opinion, was vocal about the absence of clear evidence supporting the VAR decision. According to him, if technology is going to play a defining role, there should be unmistakable visual proof justifying such crucial calls. The match's outcome might have damper Celtic's spirits, but their treble pursuit remains intact due to Rangers stumbling against St Mirren on the same day.
Reigniting the VAR Debate
The decision against Celtic sparked a wider debate that has been brewing in Scottish football circles for some time now. Fans and experts alike are questioning whether VAR, brought in to ensure accuracy and fairness, is living up to its promise. The incident has made it clear that the technology needs to be transparent and accountable if it is to maintain credibility.
Brendan Rodgers is not isolated in his concerns. The call for more transparency when using technology to adjudicate crucial moments is echoed by many involved in the sport. Whether it's through better communication or more detailed explanations given to teams and fans, the goal is clear: keep the game as fair and enjoyable as possible.
This recent VAR controversy at the Celtic versus Hibernian match serves as yet another reminder of the growing pains associated with integrating technology into the world's game. As Scottish football moves forward, the key will be finding the balance between ensuring fair play and preserving the sport's unpredictability and excitement.