Celtic negotiated an eventful Scottish Cup semi-final against Aberdeen last weekend as Brendan Rodgers maintained his 100% record in the competition.
With Rangers defeating Heart of Midlothian yesterday, we now know that a Glasgow Derby will take place in the final, though discussion over our chaotic tie against the Dons is still bubbling away in media circles.
One of the main flashpoints came on 112 minutes, where Junior Hoilett was adjudged to have fouled Alistair Johnston inside the penalty area before Cameron Carter-Vickers kicked through the back of the Canadian winger later on in the phase of play.
Nevertheless, Don Robertson awarded Celtic a free-kick following a period of mass confusion, in what appeared to be the correct decision after Johnston was denied a fair shot of winning the ball due to being barged in the back.
Despite this, in a world where decisions are open to scrutiny, not everyone is in agreement with Robertson’s call at Hampden.
Alistair Johnston call comes into focus after Celtic triumph
It is a rarity when an occasion such as a Scottish Cup semi-final passes without incident, and pundit Tam McManus expressed his opposition to the decision earlier today on social media platform X.
The former Hibernian striker opined his belief that the two players were merely challenging for the ball in mid-air, which Celtic fans will argue can be refuted due to the clear evidence of Johnston being hindered from making contact with the ball.
Referees and VAR decisions have dominated headlines in Scottish football this campaign, with Celtic and other sides across the pyramid being on the end of questionable decisions that have sometimes gained more airtime than the actual football on display.
Everyone is entitled to their opinion, though this particular call doesn’t merit the outrage felt by some when actually taken into context.
Either way, Celtic will now focus on their Scottish Premiership title charge, with Dundee at Dens Park this Sunday on the agenda for Brendan Rodgers’ men.