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SFA Publishes Detailed Explanation, Debunking Steven Naismith’s Celtic Park Complaint

The Scottish Football Association (SFA) has introduced a new initiative to increase refereeing transparency, and their first publication has already clarified a contentious issue. The SFA’s Key Match Incident Review Panel has provided a thorough explanation of the penalty incidents in Celtic’s 2-0 win over Hearts, contradicting Steven Naismith’s post-match complaints.

Naismith had questioned the consistency of refereeing decisions, suggesting that if Hearts’ claim for a penalty was denied, then Celtic’s penalty award should also have been rejected. However, the SFA’s review panel has meticulously analyzed both incidents, concluding that the decisions were correct.

Regarding the Liam Scales handball incident, the panel stated:

“The panel agreed this was a tough call for the referee but supported that VAR intervened and overturned the penalty kick for handball. The distance from the attacking player to the defender is too close and he has no time to react. The panel were not convinced that the ball struck a punishable part of the arm.”

Concerning the James Penrice foul, the panel noted:

“The majority believed this was a correct VAR intervention to award the penalty, noting that the defender made himself bigger and that his arm is out from the body.”

The SFA’s explanation highlights the differences between the two incidents, debunking Naismith’s claims of inconsistency.

This increased transparency, spearheaded by Willie Collum, the new head of refereeing, is a welcome development for Scottish football fans. The monthly VAR podcast and weekly Key Match Incident Review Panel publications will provide valuable insights into refereeing decisions.

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has already praised the initiative, recognizing its potential to improve refereeing standards.

As the season progresses, this resource will become increasingly important, providing clarity on marginal calls and holding referees accountable for their decisions.

The SFA’s bold new approach promises to enhance the overall quality of Scottish football, fostering a more informed and transparent refereeing culture.