The Kevin Clancy files- Saturday’s compilation of nightmare decisions against Celtic
Soccer Football - Scottish Premiership - Celtic v Rangers - Celtic Park, Glasgow, Scotland, Britain - April 8, 2023 Rangers' Todd Cantwell in action with Celtic's Greg Taylor Action Images via Reuters/Lee Smith
Having been given every possible helping hand to provide a challenge to Celtic this season it seems that Ibrox has gone into meltdown after a couple of decisions on Saturday were judged on merit.
Alfredo Morelos routinely gets away with pulling, pushing and shoving opponents with referees happy to look the other way. That tactic succeeded in the Viaplay Cup Final when Aaron Mooy was man-handled to give the striker a yard in which he put the ball into the net.
It is doubtful if there is another club anywhere in the world that could put together a run of 49 league matches without conceding a penalty. In contrast the league leaders, Celtic, have had seven penalties awarded against them in the 32 matches played this season.
That entitlement grows arms and legs, the special allowances given in the SPFL has become the norm with the reaction to Saturday demonstrating the dangers of creating that culture.
Celtic’s ‘fouls’ v Rangers on Saturday part 1.
Amazing. pic.twitter.com/IDQouysDZb— Lint (@Zeshankenzo) April 10, 2023
As we have witnessed all season opponents constantly fall to the ground whenever there is any contact or challenge from Celtic players.
Routinely Celtic have 65% or more possession in matches but the foul count tends to be evenly split or go against Celtic. Falling down buys opponents some time to waste and draw breathe from the constant attacks from Ange Postecoglou’s side.
Micky Beale’s side used that tactic on Saturday, Kevin Clancy played along allowing a succession of free kicks to be launched into the Celtic penalty box, something that Beale’s side couldn’t manage from open play.
