Celtic fans were left furious after Hibernian’s interim boss, David Gray, tore into the officiating and claimed he was disrespected by Hoops supporters following his side’s 2-0 defeat at Celtic Park in the Scottish Cup quarter-finals.
The game saw Celtic book their place in the semi-finals with a dominant display, as goals from Daizen Maeda and Adam Idah secured victory. Despite the Hoops controlling large parts of the match, Gray’s post-match interview focused on his frustration with the referee’s decisions and the treatment he received from sections of the Celtic support.
Gray Lashes Out at Officiating
Speaking after the defeat, Gray expressed his anger at several key refereeing decisions, hinting that his side had been treated unfairly.
“I don’t want to stand here and make excuses, but there were some big decisions that didn’t go our way. When you come to a place like this, you need strong officiating, and I don’t think we got that tonight,” Gray said.
While he didn’t specify which incidents frustrated him most, Hibernian players were seen protesting a few calls during the match, particularly a first-half challenge involving Celtic defender Cameron Carter-Vickers and Hibs forward Myziane Maolida.
Gray’s remarks suggested he believed his team was not given a fair chance.
“We were in the game for large spells, but when decisions keep going against you, it makes it that much harder. Celtic are a top team, they don’t need any extra help,” he added.
His comments immediately sparked debate among fans and pundits, with many Celtic supporters dismissing his complaints as frustration over his team’s lack of cutting edge.
Celtic Fans React as Gray Complains About Insults
In addition to his issues with the referee, Gray also took aim at a section of the Celtic support, claiming he was disrespected during the match.
“I can take a defeat, but what I won’t accept is the level of abuse directed at me and my players. Some of the things I heard from the stands tonight were completely unacceptable,” Gray stated.
While it’s unclear exactly what was said, Gray’s reaction has only added fuel to the already tense rivalry between the two clubs. However, Celtic fans quickly hit back, with many accusing him of deflecting from his team’s shortcomings.
One fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter): “David Gray should focus on why his team didn’t have a single shot on target for most of the game instead of moaning about the fans and the referee.”
Another added: “Gray blaming the ref, blaming the fans, blaming everything but his own team’s performance. Celtic were miles ahead, and he knows it.”
Others dismissed Gray’s complaints, with one supporter joking: “A sore loser, simple as that. Maybe he should worry more about his team than what the crowd is saying.”
Rodgers Keeps His Cool
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers was asked about Gray’s remarks in his post-match press conference but refused to be drawn into any controversy. Instead, he praised his players for their focus and professionalism.
“We did what we needed to do tonight. We played well, took our chances, and kept another clean sheet. That’s the main thing,” Rodgers said.
When asked about Gray’s complaints regarding the officiating, Rodgers responded diplomatically.
“I haven’t seen anything that suggests the referee had a major influence on the result. We were the better team, and we deserved to go through,” he stated.
Regarding the alleged insults from the Celtic fans, Rodgers added:
“It’s a big game, a passionate crowd, and emotions run high. But our focus was purely on the football, and I thought the players handled the occasion brilliantly.”
What’s Next for Both Clubs?
Celtic’s victory means they are now one step closer to lifting the Scottish Cup, as they prepare for a semi-final showdown at Hampden Park. With the league title race still ongoing, Rodgers’ side remains on course for another domestic double.
For Hibernian, their Scottish Cup dream is over, leaving them to focus on securing a top-six finish in the Premiership. However, Gray’s comments have ensured that the next meeting between the two sides will be even more intense.
While Celtic fans continue to celebrate another big win, Gray’s remarks have only added to the drama, ensuring his side’s exit from the competition won’t be forgotten anytime soon.
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