Nick Walsh is set to officiate Celtic’s upcoming match at Tynecastle.
This weekend’s fixture comes a year after the controversial 4-3 victory for Celtic at Tynecastle, a game known for its poor decision-making from the referee and the VAR official.
That particular encounter marked the first time the SPFL utilised VAR in a Celtic game.
Both Nick Walsh and Steven McLean, who was overseeing VAR, had a challenging day, with several questionable decisions emerging from the duo.
One such decision was related to Anthony Ralston’s goal. Walsh blew his whistle prematurely, before the ball reached the net, resulting in Ralston’s goal being disallowed.
👀 James McFadden believes Nick Walsh made the wrong decision to disallow Anthony Ralston's goal while John Hartson says VAR got two decisions wrong in the first-half ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/I8coHrOplw
— Sky Sports Scotland (@ScotlandSky) October 22, 2022
Another contentious moment arose from an apparent handball by Smith. As Forrest attempted to loft the ball into the penalty area, it seemed evident that Smith handled the ball. Even Smith’s immediate reaction suggested guilt, yet the infringement was missed by both the on-field official and VAR.
❌ Ange Postecoglou couldn't believe it when Celtic were not awarded a penalty after claims for a handball against Michael Smith. Was that the right call? ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/aY9LoXrnsX
— Sky Sports Scotland (@ScotlandSky) October 22, 2022
Following these incidents, Football Scotland reported that Celtic approached the SFA to gain clarity on the contentious decisions.
Nick walsh was at fault steve McClean just bitter walsh is best referee in spl by far and im glad he is in charge at tyne castle where the referee will be under pressure hearts players claim for everything they are always surounding ref i hope walsh stand by new rule of players signalling for players to get booked