Celtic captain Callum McGregor has echoed Brendan Rodgers’ frustration over the controversial VAR call that saw Daizen Maeda’s goal ruled out in the 2-1 defeat to Hibernian at Easter Road.
The incident, which left Celtic players and staff bewildered, came in the 83rd minute when Maeda turned home a cross from Alistair Johnston. Referee Steven McLean awarded the goal, and his assistant agreed. However, VAR official Alan Muir intervened, ruling that the ball had gone out of play before Johnston’s delivery.
After a lengthy delay, the goal was chalked off, denying Celtic a dramatic equaliser and seven minutes, plus stoppage time, to push for a winner.
McGregor, speaking after the game, insisted the evidence to overturn the decision was unclear.
“We’ve seen all the angles. The bench was convinced it was a goal. The linesman didn’t put his flag up, so the onfield decision is a goal,” he said to the Daily Mail.
“From what we’ve seen then, it’s a big call to overturn.
“That’s part of the game. People make mistakes and you have to accept it and get on with it.”
Celtic remain firmly in control of the title race, sitting 13 points clear at the top of the table. However, Rodgers and his squad will demand answers regarding the decision, with many calling for clearer evidence from VAR to justify the call.
With Aberdeen visiting Parkhead on Tuesday, Celtic will look to quickly move on from the controversy and get back to winning ways.
After going through a rough patch, Aberdeen have put together a run, winning their last three games, although one was against Dunfermline in the cup. They drew 2-2 at Celtic Park earlier in the season, and will look to mirror that performance and result.
