NafisaDerek McInnes has added further fuel to the growing debate surrounding Celtic’s Scottish Premiership title win, after reportedly highlighting a series of controversial moments he believes shaped the outcome of the season.
The Hearts boss is said to have examined key incidents from across the campaign, with frustration already building among sections of supporters who feel marginal decisions repeatedly went against challengers at crucial moments in the title race.
At the centre of the discussion is the late penalty awarded to Celtic against Motherwell, a moment that has remained one of the most heavily debated decisions of the season.
Deep into stoppage time, VAR advised referee John Beaton to review a handball incident, resulting in a penalty that Kelechi Iheanacho converted to secure a vital 3-2 win. For many critics, that was the moment Celtic firmly took control of the title race.
Another flashpoint being referenced is Celtic’s match against Rangers earlier in the campaign, where defender Alistair Johnston later admitted he may have been fortunate to avoid a red card.
That incident sparked debate at the time, with some arguing the challenge could easily have changed the momentum of the game had a different decision been made.
Attention has also returned to an offside-related goal awarded to Celtic in another key fixture, where VAR ruled that involvement in the build-up did not meet the threshold for interference.
While officials maintained the decision was correct under the laws of the game, it has continued to divide opinion among supporters who feel the interpretation was too lenient.
The discussion has further intensified around Daizen Maeda’s decisive goal, with critics arguing there was interference in the attacking phase as the move developed.
VAR, however, judged the goal to be valid, with officials satisfied that the attacking sequence met the criteria for onside involvement and active participation.
Finally, the chaotic conclusion to the season has also come under scrutiny, with a pitch invasion during the title-deciding match at Celtic Park leading to confusion over the final whistle.
The match was ultimately brought to an end amid safety concerns, with Hearts players escorted from the field as celebrations erupted around the stadium.
Together, these moments have formed the basis of growing debate around VAR consistency and interpretation throughout the season, with McInnes and others pointing to a series of decisions they believe significantly influenced the title race.
While Celtic’s triumph stands officially confirmed, the arguments surrounding key incidents ensure the season will continue to be dissected long after the final whistle.
Nafisa
