Hearts Boss McInnes Slams ‘Disgusting’ Celtic Penalty Decision

Hearts head coach Derek McInnes has launched a scathing attack on a controversial 99th-minute penalty decision that allowed Celtic to snatch a 3-2 victory over Motherwell. The late spot-kick has intensified the Scottish Premiership title race, pushing it to a dramatic final-day decider this Saturday.

The incident occurred deep into injury time, with Celtic trailing 2-1 to Motherwell. VAR Andrew Dallas intervened, prompting referee John Beaton to review a challenge involving Motherwell's Sam Nicholson. Despite replays seemingly indicating the ball struck Nicholson's head rather than his raised hand, a penalty was awarded. Kelechi Iheanacho converted the spot-kick, securing a crucial win for Celtic.

Impact on the Title Race

Had Celtic dropped points against Motherwell, Hearts would have entered the final matchday with a significant advantage, needing only to avoid a defeat by more than two goals at Celtic Park to clinch their first title since 1960. However, Iheanacho's late winner means Hearts now must avoid defeat against Celtic to become the first club outside of the Old Firm (Celtic or Rangers) to win the Scottish top flight in four decades.

McInnes's Frustration

Speaking to Sky Sports, an incandescent McInnes expressed his outrage. "When you heard Celtic had a 96th-minute penalty going to VAR, you just assume they get it," he stated. "It's disgusting. We're up against it, we're up against everybody. I don't think it's a penalty. It's so poor and it looks as though [Celtic] have been given it. They have been very fortunate."

Former England international Gary Lineker also weighed in on social media platform X, calling it "might be the worst VAR decision I've seen… extraordinary given the significance."

Looking Ahead to the Decider

Despite his clear frustration, McInnes remained defiant about the upcoming title decider. "It's going to the last game. We're delighted to be part of it," he added. "To do it, we're going to have to go and get a positive result. I'm looking forward to it already, there'll be no feeling sorry for ourselves. What a game it's going to be."

Key facts

This dramatic turn of events sets the stage for a thrilling conclusion to the Scottish Premiership season. The controversial penalty decision has not only fueled the rivalry between the competing clubs but also sparked wider debate about the consistency and application of VAR in crucial moments. For international football readers, this highlights the intense competition and high stakes involved in European domestic leagues, where single decisions can have monumental consequences on title outcomes. The final matchday promises to be a captivating spectacle as Hearts aim to defy the odds and claim a historic championship.

Fuente: BBC Sport Football RSS https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/c20211evnlvo?atmedium=RSS&atcampaign=rss