Some Celtic fans are fuming at one of the referee’s decision in the second half in the club’s 2-0 win over Hearts in the Scottish Premiership on Wednesday night away from home (BBC).
The win at Tynecastle Park came as a result of a goal each from midfielders Olivier Ntcham and Scottish star Ryan Christie. The game saw the Hoops open up a five-point lead at the top of the Premiership table, with Rangers yet to play their game away to Hibernian on Friday.
Celtic fans: Is it right to take time to call offside?
I hate that!
That's alright, keeps play flowing
Some of the linesman’s decisions left many Celtic fans baffled. A Callum McGregor goal was disallowed, but the fans were more frustrated with the time it took to make a decision.
A week late from the linesman, embarrasing.
— Daniel (@DannyMax1888) December 18, 2019
Shocking fi the linesman taking that long
— shannon (@Shannonxmcauley) December 18, 2019
Linesman managed to watch the Irishman before putting the flag up
— meganwandrum (@megz0wandrum) December 18, 2019
Correct decision but he’s took far too long
— ????? (@ReeceMckay67) December 18, 2019
Takes like 5 seconds after the ball is in the net to count it
— Swatt1888 (@MonEhHoops67) December 18, 2019
How was McGregor offside if the ball came off a Hearts player?
— The Big Cup (@lisboninthesun) December 18, 2019
Two weeks ago, the Hoops had opened up a two-point lead over the Gers. A late Scott Brown goal against Hamilton had given them all three points. This came on the same day as Rangers’ 2-2 draw away to Aberdeen.
McGregor has been one of Celtic’s most important players so far this season. He has made 33 appearances in all competitions for Neil Lennon’s men, racking up a tally of five goals and three assists as well.
The Scotsman has started every single game in the Premiership this season, featuring 17 times. Only on two occasions has he been taken off before the end of the game. Before the recent game away to Cluj in the Europa League, McGregor had played every single minute of the Bhoys’ European competition this season.
What do we think?
While it is strange that the flag went up late from the referee, it has become a rule that is being followed in a lot of leagues. It makes sure that the play keeps ongoing and there are minimum interruptions in it. It can lead to heartbreak, but it also adds more value to the suspense in games.