Referee watch: Celtic’s escape with only nine men against Aberdeen was fortunate.

Interim managers Peter Leven and Scott Anderson led the Dons in their attempt to recover from a dismal draw with Dundee. In charge of officiating was Steven McLean, a seasoned official supported by Steven Kirkland via video assistant. How did he get along with his officiating team? The start of the game was delayed before it had even begun. At first, I believed they were waiting for the TV executives to give the all-clear, but it seems like there was a VAR problem.

The game started approximately five minutes later than scheduled, but luckily the VAR system was quickly restored. This is not the first time it has happened; a few other occasions, games have been halted to address communication problems. It irritates me a little, but the referee has little influence over it. Luis Palma’s goal following a Celtic long ball gave the away team the impression that they had seized the lead. Richard Jensen was able to clear the ball and pursue Kyogo after he was hit by an incredible ball that went over the top.

Palma knocked it into the open net, but Liel Abada’s effort was comfortably saved, which was unfortunate for the Dons. Despite Aberdeen’s best defensive attempts, a well-executed goal. But first, a VAR check was scheduled. After watching a replay, Palma is at least two yards off the mark.

The length of time VAR took to award the goal truly caught me off guard. Was there still a communication problem? In any case, the proper choice was ultimately made, and the objective was duly noted. A few minutes into the second half, the home team would come to life after a lackluster first half.

Once more, it was Bojan Miovski who found himself one on one with a defender after Dante Polvara’s ball forward. His shot was set up by an amazing feat of skill, and he placed the ball past Joe Hart. An excellent goal and a good goal from the perspective of the referee. Celtic looked to have gotten away with one shortly after the goal. Once more, Miovski got involved, stealing the ball from Maik Nawrocki, who fouled the North Macedonian.

Much clamor was heard for a second yellow to be shown, even though Nawrocki was already booked. McLean, the referee, showed no attention. I believe Bojan Miovski made a valid point, but he would definitely be jailed for his protests. Every day of the week would have been a caution if he hadn’t been on a yellow.

I felt he was extremely fortunate. He was booked in the first half, therefore in my opinion, he ought to have received a second yellow card. This might have altered the outcome of the game, with Aberdeen leading 1-0. Miovski was obviously taken out by Nawrocki, thus Celtic definitely got away with one. Aberdeen would find themselves with the ball in the net once more following Celtic’s equalization. The flag would fly this time. Miovski was found by a brilliant ball into the area, who wrapped around Hart and put the ball into the net.

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