The Scottish FA has finally released details on what went through referee John Beaton’s mind before awarding Celtic their contentious penalty against Motherwell – a decision that has left Hearts and Rangers fans seething.
The incident occurred in the first half at Celtic Park, with the game level at 1-1. Celtic forward Daizen Maeda went down in the box under a challenge from Emmanuel Longelo, initially waved away by Beaton. It was only after intervention from VAR chief Kevin Clancy that Beaton was instructed to view the pitchside monitor.
Speaking after the match and in the VAR audio now released by the SFA, Beaton would explain:
“I initially saw a tussle between the players and didn’t think it was significant enough for a penalty. But VAR flagged me to check. On the monitor, it became clear that Longelo’s hold prevented Maeda from a fair opportunity at the ball. It was subtle, but it impacted the play, so I had no choice but to award the penalty.”
The audio also reveals the back-and-forth between Beaton and the VAR team, highlighting the precise moments that influenced the decision:
- VAR: “Ref, check the holding on Maeda. Look at how the arms wrap around him.”
- Beaton: “I see it now… yes, it affects his movement. He can’t get up properly.”
- VAR: “Correct. It’s enough to give the spot-kick. You’ve got it.”
Celtic converted the penalty, with Tomas Cvancara slotting it home, and the match ended 3-1 in favour of the Hoops after Longelo was shown a red card later in the game.
Former players and pundits remain divided over the decision. Stephen Craigan, ex-Motherwell man, said: “It doesn’t look like a penalty at first glance, but the VAR footage shows there’s something there. It’s harsh, but not unexplainable.”
Ex-Celtic keeper Pat Bonner added: “You have to use your body inside the box. Was he pushed? Maybe slightly, but referees have to make these calls in real time.”
Despite the controversy, Beaton remains firm that the VAR protocol was followed correctly:
“It’s about player safety and fair play. VAR gave me the information I needed. On the monitor, I could see the holding clearly. It’s unfortunate it caused anger, but it was the right decision within the rules.”
Celtic fans have celebrated the clarity offered by the audio, while rival supporters, particularly from Hearts and Rangers, continue to express frustration over the “soft” penalty call.
With the Scottish FA now making the full VAR audio public, the debate is far from over, but at least fans now know exactly what the referee saw before awarding one of the season’s most talked-about penalties.