“Celtic were Cheated by the VAR to compensate Rangers?” Dermot Gallagher tells Disappointed Brendan Rodgers WHY Celtic were NOT AWARDED crucial Penalty against Hibs which could have been detrimental to the Hoops if not because of ONE Unbelievable Player!

Former FIFA referee Dermot Gallagher has delivered his assessment of the pivotal penalty incident during Celtic’s 3-1 win over Hibernian at Celtic Park, admitting the decision was “so close” but ultimately backing the referee’s judgment.

The controversial moment occurred in the first half when Celtic were 1-0 down, and Chris Cadden seemed to handle the ball inside the area. Celtic players protested fiercely, and the call triggered widespread post-match discussion, with many believing the Hoops were unfairly denied a penalty.

Gallagher recognised that although the ball did make contact with Cadden’s arm, the defender’s movement was considered natural and in line with the rules of the game. That ultimately saved Hibs from giving away a penalty at a vital stage in the contest.

Nonetheless, Gallagher, speaking on Sky Sports’ Ref Watch, supported the match officials’ decision on the day.

“I think this is so close, he brings his arm down, it does strike him but he brings his arm down as you would expect the defender to do towards his body.”

The incident didn’t prove decisive in the end, as Celtic rallied with goals from Nicolas Kuhn, Adam Idah, and Reo Hatate to maintain their unbeaten home streak against Hibs at 22 matches. Still, it was a moment that might have shifted the momentum had the outcome been different.

Although Celtic ended up securing a convincing win, Brendan Rodgers has previously expressed annoyance over inconsistent officiating in key matches this season. On this occasion, however, both the referee and VAR made the correct call.