Ex-referee hits out at VAR decisions in Celtic’s Easter Road clash

The controversy surrounding Celtic FC’s win over Hibernian FC at Easter Road continues to grow, with former referee Des Roache launching a strong critique of the VAR decisions.

The first major incident came when Joe Newell’s equaliser was allowed to stand, despite replays suggesting the ball struck his arm before he finished.

Although the check took time, referee David Dickinson was not asked to review the footage on the monitor, and the goal was given.

Later in the match, Celtic were also denied what appeared to be a clear penalty when Benjamin Nygren was pushed in the back by Josh Campbell near the byline, with VAR again opting not to intervene. Both decisions sparked frustration among Celtic supporters, particularly given the significance of the title race.

Roache has since shared his verdict, strongly criticising both calls and the wider use of VAR. The former Category 1 referee argued that each decision was incorrect and raised concerns about how the system is being applied in Scotland. Speaking in detail, he maintained that Newell’s goal should have been ruled out for handball and that the challenge on Nygren warranted a penalty.

Newell himself admitted after the game that he was uncertain how VAR would rule due to the contact with his arm, as replays showed the ball changing direction before beating Viljami Sinisalo.

The Nygren incident also appeared straightforward, with Campbell clearly making contact while the ball remained in play inside the penalty area.

Much of the frustration has centred on the absence of on-field reviews, with Dickinson not directed to the monitor for either incident despite the extended VAR checks.