Kilmarnock manager Derek McInnes supported referee Nick Walsh’s decision to show Reo Hatate a yellow card during the Celtics’ 2-0 win over his side.
The challenge, which saw Hatate catch a Kilmarnock player midway up the shin, was checked by VAR official Don Robertson. However, VAR did not instruct Walsh to review the incident on the pitch-side monitor, effectively endorsing the original decision.
The tackle sparked immediate debate.
Former Celtic striker Chris Sutton remarked that Hatate was “lucky” to stay on the field, while Kris Boyd and James McFadden, both speaking on Sky Sports, were adamant that the challenge warranted a straight red card.
McInnes, however, expressed a more measured view when speaking post-match on Sky Sports.
The decision not to show Hatate a red card will continue to be a talking point in the aftermath of the match. While McInnes’ backing of Walsh’s call adds weight to the referee’s judgement, the split opinions from ex-players and pundits ensure the debate is far from settled.
“At the time I thought it was high, but I didn’t think there was a lot of force in it,” he said post match on Sky Sports. “When it goes to VAR, I’m sure the pictures didn’t look good, but in terms of force, I’m not sure it was a red card to be honest.”
In fairness, had Hatate been given his marching orders, there wouldn’t have been many complaints.
Celtic were already 2-0 and the game looking to be all but won at that point, but a red card could’ve changed it.
