Rangers manager Philip Clement has seemingly lent his voice to Celtic’s grievances with the handball rule. This unexpected alignment came to light following a controversial moment in Celtic’s recent match, where the use of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) came under scrutiny along with the handball rule.
Celtic found themselves at the centre of debate after a VAR intervention led by John Beaton decided a handball offence against them. The incident in question saw a Celtic player Tomoki Iwara, knocked off balance and airborne, inadvertently make contact with the ball with his arm.
Notably, the player’s gaze was not even on the ball at the moment of contact, highlighting the lack of intention behind the action. Despite the absence of a “clear and obvious error,” which typically warrants VAR engagement, Beaton’s decision compelled on-field referee Don Robertson to issue a penalty against Celtic.
Echoing Celtic’s concerns, albeit from his own perspective, Clement expressed his dissatisfaction after Rangers’ 2-2 draw with Benfica. He criticised the penalty awarded against his team for a handball and openly disagreed with the current trajectory of handball rulings within the game. “I don’t agree with where the game is going with the handball situation.” [Football Scotland]
Celtic’s predicament and Clement’s subsequent comments have highlighted a growing concern within football regarding the consistency and application of the handball rule and VAR.
Brendan Rodgers criticised the competency of the officials after his team were subject to some bizarre decisions. Instead of dealing with the issues and being transparent, the SFA have closed shop and have charged the Celtic manager instead.
