Interest in the interpretation of the handball rule and penalty kicks in Scottish football has been significant, and for good reason.
Since the introduction of VAR in English football, the penalty count has decreased significantly. However, in Scotland, the penalty count has risen sharply. There are two teams in the SPFL that have conceded eight penalties each this season, and we are only halfway through.
As of January 9th, 2023, a total of 48 penalties have been awarded. Celtic have conceded five. This is especially remarkable, considering their dominant possession and lack of time spent in their own box.
Below is a table that includes all the Scottish clubs and the penalties they have conceded this season. Remarkably, one side scores a zero despite the sharp rise in penalty kicks given.
- Aberdeen 8
- St.Mirren 8
- Hibs 7
- Livingston 6
- Celtic 5
- Hearts 5
- Dundee Utd 3
- Kilmarnock 3
- Motherwell 3
- St.Johnstone 2
- Ross County 1
- Rangers 0
Celtic have asked for clarity on the rules after watching their team concede a number of handball related penalties while not getting them at the other end.
The best example being at Ibrox when Connor Goodson raised his arms and blocked a shot inside his own area. VAR didn’t give anything for the incident, despite Celtic players being punished in prior games for lesser handball offences.
Draw your own conclusions.
