VAR controversy sparks Dundee United boss Jim Goodwin's frustration
Dundee United boss Jim Goodwin expressed his frustration over the VAR decision that allowed Celtic's Camilo Duran to score after a handball incident in their Premier Sports Cup clash. The incident occurred when Kasper Hogh handled the ball, which then struck his hand and fell to Duran, who scored the second goal in Celtic's 4-0 win at Tannadice.
What happened?
According to the rules, an attacking player is penalized for a handball leading to a goal if they score directly with their hand/arm or score immediately after an accidental touch. However, an accidental handball that merely precedes a teammate scoring is no longer considered an infringement. The VAR team checked the call and backed referee Steven McLean, who had already allowed the goal.
Why it matters for Dundee United
The VAR decision has sparked controversy among Dundee United fans and players. The team's former captain, Mark Reynolds, conceded that the rule may seem 'crazy' but insisted that the SFA has made it clear to clubs that it's a 'black and white' decision. Reynolds also pointed out that the Celtic player made it through three Dundee United players to score the goal, which is a bigger concern for the team.
What comes next?
The SFA has released a statement declaring that by law, the goal was correctly allowed to stand, and have been backed up by rule-makers IFAB. Dundee United will have to move on from this controversy and focus on their next match. The team is currently 9th in the Premiership, 33 points behind leaders Heart Of Midlothian, and has scored 34 goals this season while conceding 53. They are also without Dario Naamo and Miller Thomson due to injuries.
League standing
Dundee United is currently 9th in the Premiership, 33 points behind leaders Heart Of Midlothian, and has scored 34 goals this season while conceding 53. They are also without Dario Naamo and Miller Thomson due to injuries.
