Dundee United's handball controversy has been revisited by ex-refs chief Keith Hackett, who believes the officials made the right call in awarding Celtic's second goal despite a handball in the build-up. The incident occurred in the Scottish League Cup match between Celtic and Dundee United, where Kasper Hogh appeared to handle the ball when under challenge. VAR checked the goal, but gave the all-clear to referee Steven McLean to allow the visitors to go 2-0 up.
What happened?
Hackett explained that the incident highlights the complexity of the handball law. He said: "The incident in the Celtic game highlights the complexity of the handball law. There is no doubt that the ball struck the arm of the player sliding on the ground. This action was accidental, and had the ball gone directly into goal, having come off the attacker, it would have been ruled out. However, the accidental handball went to a colleague who scored. The law was changed, and the decision to allow the goal is the correct decision."
Why it matters for Dundee United
The controversy has sparked debate among fans and pundits, with some questioning the officials' decision. However, Hackett's analysis suggests that the officials made the right call. The incident has also highlighted the complexity of the handball law, which has been a subject of controversy in recent years.
What comes next?
Dundee United will be looking to bounce back from their defeat and continue their push for a top-six finish in the Premiership. They currently sit 9th in the league table, with 33 points from 33 games, and are 37 points behind leaders Heart of Midlothian. They have scored 34 goals this season, but have conceded 53, leaving them with a -19 goal difference.
League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 9th in Premiership, 33 pts, 8W-9D-16L from 33 games, recent form WLWWL. Goals this season: 34 scored, 53 conceded (-19 goal difference). Title race: 37 points behind leaders Heart of Midlothian.
