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Ref chief departs Celtic Derby return on message to Rangers that Willie Collum won’t be intimidated out of the game

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10 months ago

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Crawford Allan has launched a staunch defence of Collum after Gers request to maintain him away from their matches.

Willie Collum and James Tavernier (Image: SNS Group)
Scotland’s head of referees has admitted Willie Collum dropped a clanger in the ultimate Old Firm game – however insisted Rangers won’t be allowed to bully the whistler out of the game.

Refs chief Crawford Allan launched a staunch defence of the controversial official after meeting with all top flight clubs the day prior to this for the 2d mid-season evaluate of VAR across the Premiership. Allan published that the derby day cock-up used to be one of thirteen separate incidents which an unbiased assessment panel trust have been botched by means of VAR over the 2d phase of the season – rocketing up from simply three mistakes in the first spherical of fixtures.

The Ibrox club reacted furiously when Collum dismissed a possible penalty kick from Clydesdale House despite slow movement replays displaying Alistair Johnston had handled the ball inside Celtic ’s box. It was once only after Collum’s intervention that subsequent photographs proved the award would no longer have stood in any case as Rangers striker Abdallah Sima had drifted offside moments earlier throughout the attacking phase of play (APP).

But that didn’t quit the Ibrox membership stressful showdown talks with the SFA at some stage in which they called for Collum to be blackballed from officiating at any of their future matches. Last week Rangers boss Philippe Clement publicly distanced himself from that warfare footing and welcomed Collum’s appointment for his side’s Scottish Cup tie towards Ayr United.

But now Allan has admitted that Collum obtained it wrong. He said: “It’s challenging to say he made a mistake because he didn’t make a factual procedure error. It was once a subjective selection that Willie made and he is entitled to that.

“Would I have desired if the handball had been examined via to an APP? Yes.

“But I am not going to say that Willie has completed some thing incorrect in phrases of process or an error. Willie is entitled to take a view, looking at it from every perspective at full speed.

“In gradual motion I suppose it does make it look worse, but at full pace – which Willie seemed at – he made an skilled decision. I assume APP ought to have been reviewed and the hand transferring across the ball was enough to have that appeared at for the relaxation of the APP. I have stated that privately to the membership as well.

“The Rangers manager’s feedback closing week had been useful prior to the Rangers Ayr United match. That was once a positive.”

And Allan has refused to rule out the opportunity of Collum taking charge of every other Old Firm derby in the 2nd 1/2 of the campaign – as the race to the title goes down to the wire. He said: “At no factor will a club affect a decision of a referee appointment in Scotland.

“I can categorically state that the Scottish FA will appoint referees to the excellent of that person’s experience, potential and professionalism. We will be appointing referees as their experience and profile is fantastic for. We definitely reject any request from any club that a referee would no longer be considered for their membership appointments.

“We don’t prefer to make any large headlines from one referee. It doesn’t matter if it’s one person’s name out there, it influences all the referees. We have to shield them all.

“I have had a comparable request from a club in tier five recently, asking that a referee didn’t do their games. I suppose they were probably leaping on a bandwagon.”

And when pressed on whether Collum could be thrown again into the cauldron of derby day this season he said: “Willie will be in the body with each and every other referee for consideration for games, whether they be in the league, in the cup or whatever. We’ll make that choice nearer the time.”

Full list of VAR errors – Celtic v Rangers incident, missed Hearts red card, penalty, Jose Cifuentes and Dundee denied

VAR Review Unveils 13 Incorrect Outcomes in Scottish Premiership Fixtures

The independent review panel overseeing VAR in Scottish football has identified 13 key match incidents (KMIs) with incorrect outcomes during the second full round of cinch Premiership fixtures. This marked a notable increase from the three errors found in the opening round, shedding light on the variances in panel composition for each assessment. The incidents in question and their respective outcomes are detailed below:

1. Hearts should have been awarded a penalty against Motherwell for a challenge on Liam Boyce after a VAR review at Fir Park (November 11).

2. VAR should have suggested an on-field review after Rangers winger Ross McCausland was initially awarded a penalty at Livingston, which was later rescinded (November 12).

3. VAR should have recommended an on-field review for a potential red card for Kilmarnock’s Will Dennis against Hearts, and the goalkeeper should have been sent off (December 2).

4. Motherwell defender Bevis Mugabi should have had a goal disallowed against Dundee for a foul in the build-up, but no VAR review was recommended (December 2).

5. Kilmarnock forward Marley Watkins should have been sent off against Aberdeen, but no VAR review was recommended (December 6).

6. VAR should not have recommended a review for a challenge on Rangers forward Abdallah Sima against Dundee. The Light Blues were awarded a penalty after the review (December 9).

7. A yellow card against Rangers midfielder Jose Cifuentes in the same game should have stood. Cifuentes was sent off after a review.

8. Hearts midfielder Beni Baningime should have been sent off against Aberdeen, but no VAR review was recommended (December 9).

9. VAR should have recommended an on-field review for a potential penalty for a handball offence by Celtic’s Alastair Johnston against Rangers. However, the panel noted an offside in the build-up, so the decision should have remained not to award the penalty (December 30).

10. VAR should have recommended an on-field review for a penalty for a foul on Hearts winger Alan Forrest against Ross County, resulting in a spot-kick being awarded (December 30).

11. Rangers defender John Souttar should not have been penalized for handball against Kilmarnock. VAR prompted a review, leading to a spot-kick (January 2).

12. St Johnstone midfielder Graham Carey’s disallowed goal against Aberdeen should have stood. VAR recommended a review for a foul in the box (January 24).

13. Zach Robinson should have had a goal against Livingston disallowed for a foul in the build-up (January 27).

This scrutiny of VAR decisions underscores the ongoing efforts to refine the system and enhance its accuracy in the Scottish Premiership.

Cyriel Dessers both hero and villain as Rangers miss numerous opportunities and Celtic maintain their Premiership lead

Rangers Triumph in Frustrating Night of Missed Opportunities

In a crucial match with the potential to overtake Celtic in the title race, Rangers secured a 3-1 victory over Ross County. However, the night unfolded as a tale of missed opportunities for Philippe Clement’s side, as their profligacy in front of goal prevented them from surpassing Celtic in both points and goal difference.

Struggling to Find Shooting Boots

Despite the expectations of a victory by a three-goal margin or more, Rangers found themselves drawing level on points and goal difference with Celtic, but trailing on goals scored. The night was marked by missed opportunities and a lack of clinical finishing, leaving the home crowd at Ibrox frustrated.

Profligacy Despite Victory

Cyriel Dessers, scoring two goals, played a crucial role in securing the victory for Rangers. However, his profligacy in front of goal raised questions about the team’s efficiency. While Dessers improved his goal tally to 14, the overall finishing lacked the precision required in a tight title race.

Defensive Vulnerabilities and Frenetic Late Rally

Rangers’ defensive solidity was also questioned, conceding a soft goal and providing Ross County with chances that kept the visitors theoretically in contention until John Souttar’s injury-time header sealed the victory. The late rally by Rangers failed to provide the desired goal, leaving the home crowd and manager Philippe Clement yearning for a more convincing display.

Implications for the Title Race

The significance of the occasion was palpable at Ibrox, with energy and expectation permeating the atmosphere. The drawn points with Celtic intensify the competition for the title, emphasizing the importance of converting opportunities in the remaining months of the season.

As Rangers navigate the challenges in the title race, the frustrating night of missed opportunities serves as a reminder of the need for clinical finishing and defensive solidity to secure pivotal victories in the quest for championship glory.

‘Superb’… On Sunday, St Mirren manager Stephen Robinson was astounded by a Celtics player who makes £15,000 a week

St Mirren manager, Stephen Robinson, has shared how he was blown away by one Celtic player’s performance in Paisley on Sunday.

Stephen Robinson

Robinson’s side succumbed to a 2-0 defeat to Brendan Rodgers‘ men and whilst The Buddies boss was disappointed to go out of the Scottish Cup, he reserved special praise for Celtic goalkeeper, Joe Hart.

Robinson said [PLZ Soccer], “Celtic defensively, they don’t really get that kind of credit. They are classed as a very good football team.

“But some of the blocks that they made in the six-yard box and Joe Hart, I thought was superb on the day dealing with corners and deliveries into the box.

“And you know, they deserve credit for that as well. At times the two 18-yard boxes is where the difference is between winning and losing football matches.”

A real touch of class and humility from Robinson there. Hart’s performance at St Mirren was, probably, one of his best of the season.

As I spoke about yesterday, the £15k p/w ‘keeper has been criticised for making some blunders earlier this season but of late, he has really shown his value to the Celtic team.

Against Hibs, he made three brilliant saves and at Aberdeen, he made a further two and ten ball recoveries. [Fotmob]

However, against Rangers at Ibrox earlier this season, Hart showed his true value to the Celtic team. His leadership and experience helped coach an inexperienced centre-back pairing of Gustaf Lagerbielke and Liam Scales through a tough afternoon at Ibrox which led to a 1-0 Celtic win.

With his contract set to expire at the end of the season, Rodgers needs to make a decision on the £1m man and decide whether or not he still has a future at Celtic.

Based on the last few performances, it does seem that despite having a career spanning 20 years, Joe Hart still has a lot left to offer.

Ex-Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou is linked to an incredible Premier League move

Ange Postecoglou’s Rumored Move to Liverpool

Recent rumors suggest that former Celtic manager Ange Postecoglou is being considered for the managerial position at Liverpool, following Jurgen Klopp’s announcement of stepping down at the end of the season.

Soccer Football – Premier League – Tottenham Hotspur v Fulham – Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London, Britain – October 23, 2023 Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou reacts REUTERS/David Klein

Postecoglou’s Impact at Spurs

Since his move from Celtic to Spurs in the summer, Postecoglou has left an indelible mark on the North London club. He has not only transformed the team’s playing style but has also created a positive atmosphere. Under his guidance, Spurs have gained recognition for their attractive football and are currently competing for a spot in the next season’s Champions League, thanks to their strong performances in the league.

Speculation and Invitation

The speculation regarding Postecoglou’s potential move to Liverpool gained traction when Andy Maher mentioned on SEN 1116 that “Ange Postecoglou’s agent has formally received an invitation to discuss his potential interest in the Liverpool managerial position.” This revelation has added fuel to the ongoing discussions about Klopp’s successor.

Career Milestones and Achievements

If Postecoglou were to take on the managerial role at Liverpool, it would mark another significant milestone in his career. The Australian coach has experienced a meteoric rise, starting from his days in the A-League and J-League to a successful stint at Celtic, where he secured five trophies in just two years.

Stepping into Klopp’s Shoes

Taking over from a managerial giant like Klopp, who led Liverpool to numerous domestic and international triumphs, including the Premier League and Champions League titles, would undoubtedly be a massive step for Postecoglou. The potential move is further complicated by the fact that Liverpool is Postecoglou’s boyhood club, adding a sentimental layer that might make it challenging for him to turn down such an opportunity.

As the managerial saga unfolds over the coming months, the potential shift of Ange Postecoglou to Liverpool will be a storyline worth keeping a close eye on, given its potential impact on both the coach’s career and the future trajectory of the iconic English club.

The Celtic wonderkid whose cost essentially has truly skyrocketed with the aid of 1,267% after leaving in a massive way.

Celtic supporters may have enjoyed the latest sight of academy brain Rocco Vata emerging as a first-team alternative for Brendan Rodgers this year.

The 18-year-old talent has been in five matchday squads for the senior group in 2024 and made two appearances – scoring in opposition to Buckie Thistle in the SFA Cup.

Hopefully, the teenage whiz will be in a position to earn greater minutes on the pitch over the weeks and months to come as he appears to translate his brilliant academy form, with 12 goals in 15 Lowland League fits this season, over to the first-team.

The Hoops will be hoping that Vata can emerge as a everyday for Rodgers subsequently and that they can gain on the pitch from his development.

Whereas, they were now not able to do that with one of the last homegrown wonderkids to come thru their academy as Ben Doak made the jump to be part of Liverpool in the Premier League.

Ben Doak’s market price at Celtic
The Reds snapped him up from the Hoops in March 2022 for a suggested compensation charge of £600k, as he had yet to sign a professional contract with the Scottish giants – due to being sixteen at the time.

He had already made two first-team appearances beneath Ange Postecoglou in the Scottish Premiership at some point of the 2021/22 marketing campaign however that was not enough to convince him to commit his future to the club.

Doak, who used to be once described as “explosive” by way of brain scout Jacek Kulig, used to be spotted by using Liverpool and they moved to take him away from Scotland in 2022 to be part of their academy system.

Ben Doak’s modern-day market value at Liverpool
It is challenging to argue in opposition to that being a exceptional choice for the teenage dynamo as Jurgen Klopp has provided him first-team opportunities and his market cost has soared over the last two years.

At the time of writing (12/02/2024), Transfermarkt fee Doak at a whopping €10m, which is round £8.5m, and that is a fantastic make bigger of 1267% on the £600k that the English giants paid for him.

The 18-year-old gem, who has been sidelined with a meniscus tear on the grounds that December, made five senior appearances for Liverpool throughout the first half of of the season, with three of those coming in the Europa League.

Interestingly, Doak has played more first-team games (ten) for Liverpool than Vata (six) has for Celtic in all competitions, regardless of the Irish teen being seven months older.

The Scotland formative years international, who was once hailed as a herbal “force” through Klopp, has been shown a clear pathway into the senior squad on Merseyside and his soaring market cost displays his wonderful growth down south.

This suggests that there is no reason for Doak to regret his choice to make the go away from Celtic as his profession seems to be heading in the proper course at this moment in time.

Hopefully, the teenage whiz will return from harm and pick out up where he left off as a real choice for Liverpool’s first-team, with a view to incomes a increased function in the future.

Meanwhile, the Hoops might also watch on with a tinge of sadness, at the same time as they have to still be thrilled to see him doing well, as they lost out on having the homegrown dynamo as phase of their personal group moving forward.



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