Celtic’s dramatic late penalty win against Motherwell has intensified the Scottish Premiership title race and drawn heavy criticism from Hearts head coach Derek McInnes.
The award of a 99th-minute penalty, converted by Kelechi Iheanacho, ensured Celtic’s title hopes remain alive, setting up a final-day decider against Hearts.
Controversial VAR Decision Keeps Celtic in Title Race
The penalty was awarded after video assistant referee (VAR) Andrew Dallas called referee John Beaton to the pitchside monitor following a challenge by Motherwell’s Sam Nicholson for a high ball.
Replays suggested the ball may have hit Nicholson’s head, rather than his hand, but Beaton pointed to the spot.
Former England striker Gary Lineker described it on X as potentially “the worst VAR decision I’ve seen… extraordinary given the significance”.
McInnes Rages at Penalty Award
An incensed Derek McInnes didn’t hold back in his assessment of the decision. “When you heard Celtic had a 96th-minute penalty going to VAR, you just assume they get it,” McInnes told Sky Sports.
“It’s disgusting. We’re up against it, we’re up against everybody. I don’t think it’s a penalty. It’s so poor and it looks as though [Celtic] have been given it. They have been very fortunate.”
Title Decider Set at Celtic Park
The late penalty means Hearts must now avoid defeat against Celtic at Celtic Park on Saturday to secure the title.
Had Celtic dropped points, Hearts could have afforded to lose by two goals and still be crowned champions for the first time since 1960.
“It’s going to the last game. We’re delighted to be part of it,” McInnes added. “To do it, we’re going to have to go and get a positive result. I’m looking forward to it already, there’ll be no feeling sorry for ourselves. What a game it’s going to be.”
The Handball Law Under Scrutiny
The handball law is once again under the spotlight following the controversial decision. A key factor in handball decisions is whether the arm is above shoulder height, with players considered to be taking a risk in such positions.
The VAR seemingly believed the ball struck Nicholson’s hand or arm at head height, leading to the penalty award.
- Some may argue Nicholson’s arm position was due to a duel with Celtic’s Auston Trusty.
- Questions remain about whether the ball definitively hit Nicholson’s arm at all.
- Doubts persist about how the incident could be deemed a clear and obvious error warranting VAR intervention.
The trajectory of the ball, flying out of play for a throw-in, suggested it came off Nicholson’s head, raising further questions about the VAR’s interpretation.
Hearts now face Celtic knowing a draw will earn them the title.