The Scottish Football Association has issued a response following the controversy sparked by Neil McCann after Celtic’s dramatic late win at Rugby Park.
The Kilmarnock boss made his anger clear after his side conceded deep into stoppage time, branding the seven added minutes as “robbery” and suggesting the extended period unfairly allowed Celtic to claim all three points. The Hoops had roared back from 2-0 down to win 3-2, with Julian Araujo netting in the 97th minute to complete the turnaround.
In the aftermath of the uproar, the SFA released a statement defending the officials’ decision. It explained that referees calculate added time in line with the Laws of the Game, factoring in substitutions, injuries, time-wasting, goals and other stoppages. According to the governing body, the seven minutes played were consistent with standard guidelines and reflected interruptions during the second half.
The statement also emphasised that stoppage time is not designed to benefit one side. It noted that both teams were afforded the same additional minutes to influence the outcome and that managing those moments is part of the game.
Despite the clarification, McCann’s explosive reaction has fuelled widespread debate. Supporters and pundits have argued over whether his claims were justified or simply born out of frustration at his team’s inability to close out the match.
Observers have pointed out that the second half featured multiple substitutions, injury delays and two Celtic goals — all routine reasons for time to be added under the Laws. Celtic, for their part, took full advantage, maintaining pressure until they found the decisive breakthrough.
The SFA concluded by warning that allegations of bias can damage the integrity of the game, insisting referees act in good faith and apply the rules consistently.
While Celtic edge closer to the top of the Premiership standings, Kilmarnock are left to reflect on a painful collapse — and the debate around stoppage time shows little sign of fading.
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