The Celtic manager has shared his thoughts on a disallowed goal in his team’s 2-1 loss to Hibernian on Saturday.
Hibs started strongly in their bid to extend their unbeaten streak to 13 matches across all competitions, with Josh Campbell putting them ahead within the first five minutes at Easter Road. The academy product then doubled both his tally and his team’s advantage just before halftime, strengthening Hibs’ push for European qualification.
Celtic found a glimmer of hope when Daizen Maeda reduced the deficit with just over 20 minutes to play. However, the Japanese forward soon found himself at the center of a contentious moment that left the Hoops boss frustrated as his side pushed for an equaliser. Maeda appeared to have drawn Celtic level in the closing stages by converting an Alastair Johnston cross, and the goal was initially awarded. However, VAR official Alan Muir intervened, ruling that the ball had gone out of play before Johnston’s delivery.
Following the match, a visibly frustrated Brendan Rodgers criticized the decision, stating: “My view is that Alan Muir made a guess. The linesman, who had the best angle in the stadium, didn’t signal anything, so for it to be overturned, there must be a clear image proving the ball was out. In my experience with VAR here, we don’t always have all the angles or the necessary equipment to make that call definitively. If you don’t have conclusive evidence, then you are essentially guessing, which is extremely disappointing.”
Nearly 48 hours later, Rodgers took a more composed stance on the matter, advocating for goal-line technology and questioning the effectiveness of VAR during the incident at Easter Road.
Speaking to Sky Sports, he said: “There is a process in place, and discussions will take place between the club and the SFA, but there’s little that can be done now. So far, none of the images have provided conclusive proof.
“Goal-line technology would definitely help in these situations. Mistakes happen, but I felt VAR didn’t operate as expected on the day. When there’s no definitive evidence, you have to trust the linesman and referee, both of whom initially awarded the goal. Having goal-line technology would remove any doubts and prevent debates like the one we’re having today.”
