Celtic were moments from a shock Scottish Cup exit against Dundee, and although a late rally rescued them, the match might have unfolded very differently had an early penalty been given.
A first-half incident became the main talking point both at the break and after the final whistle.
Striker Tomáš Čvančara had strong penalty appeals dismissed after a physical battle with Luke Graham as he drove toward goal. Čvančara looked to have been pushed before going down just inside the box, but referee Ryan Lee awarded a free kick outside the area instead. VAR official David Dickinson reviewed the moment amid loud protests, but the original call stood.
Further clarification arrived via the broadcast, with the Scottish FA’s reasoning explained on Premier Sports.
Host Emma Dodds said the free kick was correct because the pushing started outside the box. Under current interpretation, pushing is judged from the initial contact point, unlike holding, which can be penalized if it continues into the area.
So despite the contact carrying into the box, officials ruled the offence occurred outside it. The decision frustrated Celtic fans, but referees believe the laws were followed as written.
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