Callum McGregor reckons Celtic are due some big decisions from VAR.
Naturally, the Hotline was flooded with differing opinions on the stance of the Celtic captain. McGregor stated that consistency is needed and that decisions will even out over a campaign if that happens. But the Parkhead skipper’s assertion that his team needs “a couple of good ones” for that to happen had the Hotline lighting up. Scott Thomas, Ayrshire, said: “I think it’s a disgrace Callum McGregor and his manager are trying to put pressure on Willie Collum and VAR officials before Kilmarnock’s upcoming semi final-clash. especially as Killie had a good penalty shout last Saturday. Never heard them complaining about VAR then.”
Chris Lowe, Yoker, said: “The two biggest calls this season have seen a five-point swing go in Celtic’s favour with the incorrect sending off at Hibs of John Lundstram that resulted in Rangers dropping two points and the decision not to send off Moritz Jenz at Tynecastle when he hacked down the Hearts player to concede a penalty and he was already on a yellow.
“Celtic went on to win that match with 11 players. No witch-hunts, conspiracy theories or clarifications asked for over either incident."
Jimmy Murray, Edinburgh, said: “I do wish Celtic fans would stop whining about VAR. Every match Celtic create at very least 15 to 20 excellent scoring chances. The amount of these chances they blow is unbelievable. Personally that would be my biggest whine. Just concentrate on putting the chances away then VAR won't matter.”
Alfie Mullin, London, said: “McGregor is trying to influence the referees and VAR men into awarding them decisions. What a VARce.” However, there was also plenty of support for McGregor.
Tommy Carson, Rutherglen, said: “Callum is bang on. Celtic have had ridiculous decisions given against them. Let’s see if some ridiculous decisions go in Celtic’s favour. I doubt it. VAR is just showing up what we’ve all known for years.”
Jonny Robison, Edinburgh, said: “There’s no paranoia from Celtic supporters. The reality is we’ve had shocking penalties given against us. Yet Rangers have had no penalties given against them in a full league season. The law of averages suggests that should be almost impossible. For Rangers to concede a penalty, Connor Goldson has to catch the ball and roll it out.”
Stephen Murray, Paisley, added: “Ange Postecoglou and Callum McGregor have called it out and people don’t like the truth. Well said both of them. Shine a light on this stuff.”
Henry Moffat, Stirling, said: “Reading the misery of Rangers trio Scott Gowers, George Wilson and Chris Lowe on yesterday’s Hotline was hilarious. Kyogo’s late goal has utterly broken them and despite nine or 10 blatant attempts to influence this title in their favour by biased VAR officiating.
“The champions will not be moved and they know their little run of luck from VAR cannot go on without higher powers stepping in. Enjoy watching Celtic in the Champions League, lads.”
In other matters, Peter Galbreaith, Inverclyde, said: “I cannot believe Rangers are thinking of loaning out Alex Lowry. The boy should be playing every week in the first team.
“Every time he gets an opportunity in the first team he has been outstanding. He never stops running and is always looking for a pass. His distribution is always first class and he isn’t afraid to shoot.
“The manager seems to be desperate to sign a midfield player from the English Championship when he has a talented player like Lowry who would be excellent in that Rangers midfield. He is young, but that shouldn’t stop him getting a place in this Rangers team.”
Andrew Lamb, Fraserburgh, isn’t impressed by January business and said: “Celtic aside, one has to be totally underwhelmed with the transfer business at SPFL clubs. Why all the fuss about Todd Cantwell? He can’t get a game at Norwich. Graeme Shinnie to Aberdeen? Surely a backward step by both parties?”
