Crime Count- Bobby Madden’s incredible Pittodrie display broken down

Once again Celtic have found themselves running up an incredible crime count despite dominating their SPFL win at Aberdeen.

BBC Scotland statistics show that Celtic had 62% possession, if the ball was in play for a generous one hour then Ange Postecoglou’s side were on the ball for 37 minutes and 20 seconds of today’s Pittodrie clash.

The home side were awarded 27 fouls by Bobby Madden, every 50 seconds that Stephen Glass’s side had the ball they were fouled.

In contrast just 10 fouls were given against the home side, Celtic players were fouled every 224 seconds. In simple terms Aberdeen were four times more likely to get a free-kick from FIFA referee Madden.

Last week the same referee decided that Jon McLaughlin pulling down Dundee’s Paul McMullan in front of goal was only worth a yellow card. At the final whistle Dundee boss James McPake was red carded.

Madden’s decision making is in line with a pattern in Celtic games this season. Last week against Dundee United the hoops had 63% possession but Kevin Clancy awarded United 12 fouls against the five given to Celtic.

At Ibrox today Steven Gerrard’s side had 74% possession against Hibs, they were awarded 16 free kicks with Hibs getting 11 according to BBC Scotland.