Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Glasgow Live
Glasgow Live
Sport
Matthew Fulton

Celtic hero fumes at Rangers penalty stat as referees blasted for using VAR as 'coward's way out'

Celtic hero Frank McAvennie is fuming at the fact rivals Rangers have not conceded a penalty so far this season.

The former Hoops man admits he feels VAR is a 'coward's way out' for some of Scotland's referees to justify decisions. There have been more than a few controversies across the season with the use of the technology, with the final weekend before the international break having plenty of flashpoints. So much so that some prominent figures in Scottish football have even called for VAR to be binned.

Rangers are the only side in the Scottish Premiership not to concede a spot-kick this campaign, while Celtic hadn't conceded one penalty before the introduction of VAR but now sit at seven lost. The last time the Light Blues were rooted to the spot in the league was in January 2022 against Aberdeen. Rangers have also received nine penalties while Ange Postecoglou's men have five. The Hoops previously hadn't been awarded one until the introduction.

READ MORE: Rangers coach 'headbutts' Celtic women's boss branding him 'little rat' in explosive derby scenes

McAvennie did not hold back in his assessment of how referees are handling the technology, as he harked back to the Connor Goldson handball incident in January's 2-2 Old Firm derby at Ibrox.

He told Football Insider: “I just feel referees are not reffing the game now. The Rangers v Celtic game, the Goldson handball, I will never forget the referee saying it is not his decision.

“It is a coward’s way out. If you are going to give the penalty just stand up and accept it, but they do not now they just blame it on VAR. 50 penalties and not one against Rangers.

“I am sure Celtic have got away with some decisions but they have still conceded some.”

READ NEXT:

- The Michael Beale Rangers 'imperative' laid out as former boss talks Celtic league gap deja vu

- Glen Kamara brands Rangers star 'maestro' as midfielder nears Finland landmark cap

- Rangers 'all to play for' title scenario laid out but Michael Beale warned Celtic too good to lose

- Steven Gerrard 'never been more nervous' to take Celtic penalty as Liverpool hero 'expected' stick

- John Souttar admits Rangers move dishonesty as defender lifts lid on injury 'difficult' moments

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.