Sport nation“VAR Keeps Celtic Top” – Bobby Madden Reacts to Parkhead Draw Drama
Celtic’s perfect start to the SPFL season came to an abrupt halt as they were held to a dramatic 2-2 draw by Aberdeen at Celtic Park. The match was marked by late VAR drama, which ultimately preserved Celtic’s lead at the top of the table.
The Hoops had been on a remarkable run, winning every game this season, but Aberdeen’s spirited comeback exposed vulnerabilities in Celtic’s defense. The Dons’ determination and resilience earned them a valuable point, and they could have easily taken all three if not for VAR’s intervention.
Former referee Bobby Madden weighed in on the game’s contentious moments, stating that “VAR keeps Celtic top of the league.” Madden agreed with the decision to disallow Aberdeen’s potential third goal, scored by Duk, due to handball.
“A correct intervention to disallow Duk’s goal,” Madden wrote. “Very difficult to see on the field and why VAR was introduced. Credit to the match officials for two decisions in the 100th minute. Correctly identifying the foul as outside the penalty area as there were wild claims for a penalty. Further claims for a handball were correctly waved away for a goal-line clearance.”
Madden’s comments highlighted the crucial role VAR played in preserving Celtic’s lead at the top of the table. The technology’s accuracy and efficiency were on full display, ensuring that the correct decisions were made despite the chaos unfolding on the pitch.
The match itself was a thrilling encounter, with Celtic racing to a 2-0 lead in the first half. Goals from their in-form strikers had the home crowd ecstatic, but Aberdeen’s response after the break was nothing short of astonishing.
The Dons’ manager, Barry Robson, had clearly instructed his team to push higher up the pitch and press Celtic’s defense. This tactical switch paid dividends as Aberdeen began to dominate possession and create scoring opportunities.
Celtic’s defense, which had been solid all season, suddenly looked vulnerable. Aberdeen’s forwards exploited the spaces left by Celtic’s attacking fullbacks, and their midfielders controlled the tempo of the game.
As the clock ticked down, Celtic’s anxiety grew. They struggled to maintain possession and create clear-cut chances. Aberdeen, on the other hand, seemed to gain confidence with every passing minute.
The turning point came when Duk thought he had scored Aberdeen’s third goal. The stadium erupted, but VAR intervened, ruling out the goal due to handball. This decision changed the complexion of the game, and Celtic breathed a collective sigh of relief.
In the dying seconds, James Forrest’s volley was cleared off the line by Duk, with fans shouting for handball. However, referee Nick Walsh was not instructed to review the incident, and he blew for full time immediately.
The draw has significant implications for the SPFL title race. Celtic’s lead at the top of the table remains intact, but Aberdeen’s resilience has sent a warning to the rest of the league. The Dons are genuine contenders, and their performance at Celtic Park will give them immense confidence.
Rangers, who suffered a defeat 24 hours after the 2-2 draw in Glasgow, are now further adrift. The Ibrox club’s title aspirations are dwindling, and their fans will be worried about the growing gap between themselves and the top two.
As the SPFL season unfolds, Celtic’s response to this draw will be crucial. Can they regain their momentum and maintain their lead, or will Aberdeen and other challengers close the gap? Only time will tell.
Bobby Madden’s comments may have been concise, but they encapsulated the drama and controversy surrounding the match. VAR’s impact was undeniable, and its accuracy ensured that justice was served.
The Celtic players will be relieved to have maintained their lead, but they know that improvements are needed. Their defense must be more resilient, and their attacking flair must be more consistent.
Aberdeen, on the other hand, will take heart from their performance. They proved that they can compete with the best, and their determination will inspire confidence in their fans.
The SPFL title race is shaping up to be an epic battle. Celtic, Aberdeen, and other challengers will push each other to the limit, and VAR will undoubtedly play a crucial role in deciding the outcome.
As the season progresses, every decision, every goal, and every point will count. Celtic’s draw against Aberdeen may have been dramatic, but it’s only the beginning of an enthralling title race.
Amina Umar
Sport nation
