Top commentator calls on SFA to open up on the VAR secrets
If you buy a match ticket or television subscription you are kept in the dark, if you are part of the commentary team you get to tune in to the key decision making conversations.
Last night Rory Hamilton was able to hear the conversation between Nick Walsh and Willie Collum as they concluded that no foul play had occurred between Abdallah Sima and Jamie Brandon.
Every pundit on TV and radio that has been asked for their view have said that the goal should have been disallowed for a fol on the Livingston defender.
Hamilton head the discussion between officials but has to play Chinese Whispers as he relays the new on to Viaplay Sports viewers.
Makes for a significantly better experience for the viewer, rather than us commentators guessing what the officials are thinking. Added bonus, you don’t have to listen to our voices for a wee bit
— Rory Hamilton (@HamiltonRory) September 28, 2023
Last season Andy Walker spilled the beans when he revealed details of a decision where the referee and VAR agreed to take the easy option rather than the right decision. Walker never added any more detail but his days in the Sky Sports commentary box ended in May.
Since VAR was rushed into operation last October there has been virtually no open communications from the SFA.
Even the factual lines to decide on offside decisions are kept secret although they were shamed into trying to explain why a ‘goal’ from Jota at Motherwell last season was disallowed. That exposed a bizarre claim that the Celtic forward was offside when he RECEIVED the ball.
On Saturday at Ibrox Steven McLean will carry the burden of the Ibrox Tribute Act not having conceded a penalty in 61 SPFL Premiership matches. Covering him will be Greg Aitken on VAR.
