How lucky was Bobby Madden that Stevie May never connected with Gary Mackay-Steven’s pass across goal in the 59th minute of Celtic’s 2-0 win over Aberdeen?
As the former St Johnstone striker watched the ball roll out of reach Kris Ajer lay on the ground suffering a serious head knock.
Madden had a clear view of the collision with Jozo Simunovic then ran past the grounded defender as he followed the ball into the penalty box.
Only the FIFA ref will know why he never brought play to a halt to allow Ajer to get treatment.
After four minutes of medical attention the defender left the park to get a change of shirt before returning to the Celtic defence.
Fortunately for Madden there was no serious injury but as every player, fan and official knows play gets stopped when a player takes a head knock. Except Madden?
Had Aberdeen scored the spotlight would have been firmly on the decision to wave play on while a player lies motionless on the deck.
Today was the third time in their last seven matches that Celtic have had Madden as referee.
Hopefully next week he’ll have a greater appreciation for player safety after today’s near miss.