Former Rangers forward Kevin Kyle has vehemently criticized the controversial penalty decision in the recent Old Firm derby, which saw the match end in a thrilling 3-3 draw.
During the game, Celtic were in the lead with a 2-0 scoreline when referee John Beaton initially cautioned Rangers’ Fabio Silva for simulation. However, after a VAR review overseen by Nick Walsh, Beaton was instructed to review the incident on the pitchside monitor.
Upon review, it was evident that Celtic’s Alistair Johnston did not make initial contact with the ball, prompting Celtic to file a formal complaint with the SFA over the decision.
Speaking on the Open Goal podcast, Kyle expressed his frustration with the call, asserting that Silva’s change of direction caused Johnston to make a defensive move instinctively.
Kyle argued that Johnston’s foot made contact with the ball first, indicating that a penalty should not have been awarded.
In his analysis, Kyle stated, “Silva is facing Johnston. He’s feinted one way, then shifted the other, leading to a natural body movement in that direction. As Silva did the faint, Johnston was already going down due to the sudden change in direction.”
“He stuck his foot out and got a touch on the ball. Where else could he have gone? It was a toe poke. He couldn’t fall the other way, hence he had to fall towards the ball. So, where should he have placed his legs? Never in my life have I seen such a penalty decision. I am furious.”
The podcast host and former Celtic player Si Ferry agreed with Kyle’s analysis, further highlighting the contentious nature of the penalty call.
