Celtic beaten at Tynecastle as scandalous VAR decisions make difference

Celtic were beaten by Hearts at Tynecastle this afternoon in a controversial game dominated by VAR decisions. Goals from Jorge Grant and Lawrence Shankland either side of half time gave Steven Naismith’s side their second win over Celtic this season.

Despite not being at their best, the Scottish Champions can feel very aggrieved by two decisions from the VAR John Beaton and referee Don Robertson.

After 13 minutes, Adam Idah missed from the spot as Zander Clark denied the Irishman. The penalty was given after Yang was brought down by Cochrane in the box. It was a soft decision but was in line with recent decisions.

After 16 minutes, VAR intervened to give send Yang off for a high boot against Alex Cochrane. It was initially given as a yellow but after slowing it down, Robertson was called to the monitor and decided that it was serious foul play and sent the South Korean winger off. There was no intent, nor was there speed in the challenge.

The penalty decision is scandalous. Tomoki Iwata did not know anything about the ball dropping that clipped his arm after seemingly coming off Alistair Johnston. In any case, there is a real question whether it was clear and obvious for a start but Don Robertson didn’t hesitate in awarding the penalty that Jorge Grant tucked away.

Celtic were lucky not to be 2-0 down at HT after Lawrence Shankland’s strike was ruled out for offside. Cameron Carter-Vickers did brilliantly to hold his line and play the Scotland striker offside. Shankland scored the other side of the half time break but it was clear that after the Jambos took the lead, the ten men of Celtic were always going to be up against it.

Celtic created opportunities and Zander Clark did well to keep them at bay but the refereeing decisions need to be examined as they play a huge part in that result today.