The Hoops dominated their opponents with an impressive attacking display in Perth, leaving them looking like they were playing on a different level.
Maeda, who was named Player of the Match, scored a powerful header in the second half, but was denied a second goal as referee Don Robertson disallowed his first-half half-volley that appeared to be heading for the top left corner of the net.
Since Arne Engels joined the team, Celtic have been excelling in set-piece situations. Maeda’s disallowed goal could have been another impressive addition to their set-piece collection. However, Trusty’s collision with Saints midfielder Graham Carey halted their momentum.
Replays showed that the collision between Carey and Trusty was accidental, with Trusty coming out physically stronger. Despite this, VAR intervention led to the disallowance of Maeda’s goal, marking the fourth time in the season that Celtic has been affected by VAR decisions in just six league games.
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers expressed his frustration with the decision, stating that Auston lost his marker and was impeded by the St Johnstone player, leading to the disallowed goal. Rodgers believed that the goal should have stood, as it was a good strike by Maeda.
Fortunately for Celtic, the disallowed goal did not affect the outcome of the game. Head of Refereeing Willie Collum is set to review incidents, including the call made by Don Robertson, on the SFA’s ‘The VAR Review’ show. It will be interesting to hear Collum’s thoughts on the controversial decision.
For more details on the player ratings from the game at McDiarmid Park, you can visit our sister site, Celtic Shorts.
