In a recent Scottish Premiership match at Easter Road, Celtic faced a contentious moment when Daizen Maeda’s potential equalizer was disallowed following a VAR review. The incident occurred in the 83rd minute, with Celtic trailing Hibernian 2-1. Maeda found the net, seemingly leveling the score, but the goal was overturned after VAR official Alan Muir determined that Alistair Johnston’s cross had crossed the byline before reaching Maeda.
Post-match, Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers expressed significant frustration regarding the decision. He approached on-field referee Steven McLean to seek clarification. According to Rodgers, McLean indicated that the decision was based on VAR’s assessment, stating it was “factually out.” Rodgers challenged this assertion, highlighting the limitations of the available camera angles, particularly the reliance on a view from the 18-yard line, which he believed was insufficient to conclusively determine the ball’s position. He emphasized the importance of definitive evidence in such critical decisions, especially given the match’s significance at this stage of the season.
Rodgers also pointed out that the assistant referee, who had a clear line of sight, did not signal that the ball had gone out of play, suggesting uncertainty in the decision-making process. He expressed concern that, without clear visual confirmation, the officials might have been “guessing,” which he deemed unacceptable in high-stakes matches.
The disallowed goal disrupted Celtic’s momentum as they sought to overcome a two-goal deficit established by Hibernian’s Josh Campbell in the first half. Despite a stronger second-half performance and Maeda’s initial goal reducing the margin, the VAR intervention ultimately sealed Celtic’s 2-1 defeat. Rodgers acknowledged the team’s sluggish start but remained critical of the pivotal VAR decision, underscoring the necessity for precise technology and evidence in officiating.
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