The Key IFAB Ruling on Celtic vs Kilmarnock Handball Goal Flashpoint Explained
The Scottish Cup tie between Celtic and Kilmarnock was marred by controversy when referee Nick Walsh awarded a goal to the visitors, despite Celtic goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel’s vehement protests. The Danish shot-stopper was adamant that the goal should have been ruled out due to a handball in the build-up, but a VAR check deemed the goal legitimate.
The incident in question occurred when Robbie Deas’s arm made contact with the ball in the box, deflecting it into the path of Bobby Wales, who slotted home to equalize for Kilmarnock. While Schmeichel and his Celtic teammates were incensed by the decision, the IFAB Laws of the Game were altered in 2021 to provide clarity on similar incidents.
According to the revised laws, accidental handball that leads to a team-mate scoring a goal or having a goal-scoring opportunity is no longer considered an offence. This change was implemented to provide greater consistency and fairness in the application of the handball rule.
In a statement explaining the change, IFAB correspondence read: “Accidental handball that leads to a team-mate scoring a goal or having a goal-scoring opportunity will no longer be considered an offence.” This clarification has significant implications for the game, as it seeks to eliminate the ambiguity and controversy that often surrounds handball decisions.
In the case of the Celtic vs Kilmarnock match, the VAR check correctly applied the revised laws, determining that Deas’s arm was in a natural position and that the handball was accidental. Therefore, the goal was rightfully awarded to Kilmarnock.
Premier Sports pundit and former Celtic manager Martin O’Neill expressed surprise at the decision, admitting that he thought it looked like a handball. “I thought it looked like a handball, I thought it would be given,” O’Neill said. However, upon closer inspection and consideration of the revised laws, it becomes clear that the correct decision was made.
The incident highlights the importance of understanding and applying the laws of the game correctly. The revised handball rule has been implemented to promote fairness and consistency, and its application in this instance demonstrates its effectiveness.
As the Scottish Cup competition continues to unfold, it is essential that players, coaches, and officials remain aware of the laws and their application. By doing so, we can ensure that the beautiful game is played with integrity, fairness, and respect for all participants.
In conclusion, the Celtic vs Kilmarnock handball goal flashpoint serves as a valuable reminder of the importance of understanding and applying the laws of the game correctly. The revised handball rule has been implemented to promote fairness and consistency, and its application in this instance demonstrates its effectiveness. As the Scottish Cup competition continues, it is essential that all stakeholders remain aware of the laws and their application to ensure that the game is played with integrity, fairness, and respect for all participants.
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