Keith Hackett stunned by red card debate after Celtic F.C. beat Rangers F.C.

Keith Hackett believes Alistair Johnston should have been shown a straight red card during Celtic F.C.’s dramatic 3-1 Old Firm victory over Rangers F.C. on Sunday.

The hosts produced an impressive comeback after conceding early, with Yang Hyun-jun levelling the score before Daizen Maeda struck twice to seal a convincing win. Despite Celtic’s dominance in the final result, the match was overshadowed by several controversial moments, including debate surrounding the equaliser and Johnston’s dangerous first-half tackle.

Hackett did not hesitate to criticise the officials, insisting the Celtic defender’s challenge warranted an immediate dismissal.

The incident occurred late in the opening half as both sides battled intensely for control before the interval. Johnston launched into a sliding tackle, making contact with the ball but also catching Mikey Moore heavily in the process.

Television replays appeared to show Johnston’s studs striking the Rangers winger above the ankle with considerable force. However, referee Nick Walsh opted to issue only a yellow card, while VAR declined to recommend a further review.

Hackett questioned the officiating team afterwards, arguing the challenge clearly amounted to serious foul play. He suggested the replay angle shown during half-time analysis demonstrated excessive force and a dangerous point of contact that endangered the opponent’s safety.

According to the former referees’ chief, the tackle may have looked like a caution in real time, but closer footage painted a far more serious picture.

Controversy has become a recurring theme in recent Old Firm meetings. Earlier this season, Hackett even claimed sanctions such as points deductions could have been considered following crowd disorder after the Scottish Cup encounter between the rivals.

While Sunday’s clash avoided similar crowd trouble, Rangers are still likely to feel frustrated by several decisions that went against them. The defeat also confirmed the club’s failure to secure Champions League football and piled further pressure on manager Danny Röhl after a third consecutive loss.

The focus will now shift to whether Röhl can steady the situation following what has been a hugely disappointing finish to the campaign.