In a pulsating encounter at Easter Road, Brendan Rodgers was left seething over the controversial VAR ruling that saw Daizen Maeda’s crucial goal disallowed during Celtic’s 2-1 defeat against Hibs. Despite this setback, the champions remain 13 points clear at the top of the table after St Mirren secured a surprise win at Ibrox.
The match had started poorly for Celtic, conceding two sloppy goals to Josh Campbell in the first half. However, Maeda’s 68th-minute strike, following three strategic substitutions at halftime, breathed new life into the game. The Hoops thought they had drawn level when Maeda thumped in a rebound off a cross from Alistair Johnston in the 83rd minute.
Referee Steven McLean and his assistant initially awarded the goal, only for VAR to intervene. Following a lengthy review, the technicians ruled that the ball had crossed the line before the cross, thus disallowing the goal. This decision left Rodgers incensed, as he lambasted the lack of conclusive evidence and accused officials of making a guess that ultimately cost his team a vital goal.
Reflecting on the match, Rodgers expressed his disappointment with the team’s slow start and poor decision-making in possession during the first half. Despite a strong second-half performance and ample pressure applied on the opposition, the Hoops were unable to convert their chances into goals, leading to their defeat.
Looking ahead to their next match against Aberdeen, Rodgers emphasized the need for his team to regroup quickly and rectify their mistakes. The VAR controversy may have overshadowed the result, but the Hoops boss is determined to rally his players and ensure they bounce back strongly in their upcoming fixtures.
