“Rangers will not be happy over this” Duk lands unanimous Celtic penalty verdict after Aberdeen ‘save’ as IFAB rules throw out one handball theory

Aberdeen’s Duk Cleared of Penalty Claims Against Celtic

Aberdeen star Duk has been exonerated over claims of handball in the closing stages of the 2-2 draw against Celtic. Former Rangers player Neil McCann and ex-SFA referee Bobby Madden concurred that Duk’s goalline clearance was legitimate.

Match Recap

The thrilling Scottish Premiership encounter saw Celtic take a 2-0 lead before Aberdeen staged a remarkable comeback. Duk’s disallowed goal for handball sparked controversy, but his late clearance sealed the draw.

Expert Analysis

McCann praised Duk’s exceptional awareness:

“What a save that is, Mitov, I mean it’s a point-blank header. I have to say, Duk makes a better save. A fraction of an inch up and it maybe catches him on the arm.”

He emphasized that the ball struck Duk’s leg before potentially grazing his arm:

“They are saying it maybe comes off the arm here, it might, but if it does, it comes off the leg first. It comes off the upper thigh for me and then maybe ricochets against the body.”

IFAB Rules

The International Football Association Board (IFAB) rules support McCann’s interpretation:

“If the football is moving quickly and the player cannot move their hand or arm out of the ball’s way after it hits your leg, then it is not considered a handball.”

Madden’s Verdict

Bobby Madden endorsed the match officials’ decisions:

“A correct intervention to disallow Duk’s goal. Very difficult to see on the field and why VAR was introduced.”

He commended the referees for their accuracy under pressure:

“Credit to the match officials for two decisions in the 100th minute.”

Title Implications

The draw keeps Celtic and Aberdeen level on points, with the Hoops narrowly holding top spot on goal difference. As the season unfolds, both teams will aim to capitalize on their momentum.

Key Takeaways:

• Duk cleared of penalty claims against Celtic.
• Neil McCann and Bobby Madden endorse goalline clearance.
• IFAB rules support legitimacy of clearance.
• Celtic and Aberdeen level on points.
• Title implications intensify.

Sources:

• Daily Record
• Scottish Premiership
• Sportscene

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