Sport nationThere have been calls for a replay of the Scottish League Cup final between Celtic and Rangers, following controversy over a penalty decision. However, these suggestions have been labeled as “ludicrous” and “complete nonsense” by PLZ Soccer presenter Peter Martin.
The incident in question occurred during extra time in the League Cup final, when Rangers player Vaclav Cerny appeared to be fouled by Celtic’s Liam Scales inside the penalty area. Despite protests from Rangers players, the referee did not award a penalty, and Celtic went on to win the match in a penalty shootout.
The decision has been widely debated, with some arguing that a penalty should have been awarded, while others believe that the referee made the correct decision. The head of referees in Scotland, Willie Collum, has even weighed in on the controversy, labeling the decision as “unacceptable.”
However, Peter Martin believes that calls for a replay are unfounded. “I mean, I have heard some ludicrous situation and suggestion that they should replay the match, which is just a complete nonsense,” he said. “He made a mistake.”
Martin’s comments were echoed by former Celtic manager Neil Lennon, who also believes that the controversy has gone on for too long. “This has rumbled on for too long,” he said. “It would make everybody’s life easier if we could have a clear picture of why those decisions were made and quicker.”
Lennon also pointed out that the focus on the penalty decision has overshadowed Celtic’s achievement in winning the League Cup. “Celtic have been magnificent this season, and they deserve to be celebrated for their achievements,” he said. “Instead, we’re talking about a penalty decision that didn’t go Rangers’ way.”
The controversy is likely to continue, with Celtic set to face Rangers again in the Scottish Premiership after the New Year. However, Lennon believes that Celtic will do their talking on the pitch, rather than getting caught up in the controversy. “The champions will do their talking on the field of play and look to further extend their lead at the top of the table,” he said.
Celtic’s manager, Brendan Rodgers, has also weighed in on the controversy, stating that his team’s focus is on the upcoming matches, rather than getting caught up in the debate. “We’re not getting distracted by all the noise around the penalty decision,” he said. “We’re focused on our next match and on continuing to perform at a high level.”
The Scottish Football Association (SFA) has also released a statement on the matter, stating that they will review the incident and take any necessary action. However, it’s unlikely that the SFA will take any action that would result in the match being replayed.
In the end, the controversy surrounding the penalty decision will likely continue to be debated by fans and pundits alike. However, for Celtic and Rangers, the focus will be on the upcoming matches and the battle for supremacy in the Scottish Premiership.
As the two teams prepare to face each other again in the new year, the tension and excitement are building. Celtic will be looking to extend their lead at the top of the table, while Rangers will be seeking to close the gap and mount a challenge for the title.
One thing is certain, however: the match between Celtic and Rangers will be one of the most highly anticipated and closely watched matches of the season. The controversy surrounding the penalty decision may have added an extra layer of tension to the match, but it’s unlikely to detract from the excitement and drama of the occasion.
As the two teams take to the pitch, the focus will be on the football, rather than the controversy. The question on everyone’s mind will be: can Rangers mount a challenge to Celtic’s dominance, or will the Hoops continue to reign supreme? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the match between Celtic and Rangers will be an unforgettable occasion.
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Amina Umar