There was a buzz surrounding the tinted eyewear discussions at Auchenhowie yesterday, with Philippe Clement focusing intensely on critiques of his team’s conduct during and after the explosive Old Firm clash on Sunday.
Accusations of Fabio Silva’s alleged simulation in the heated 3-3 draw sparked a sharp response from the Rangers manager, who suggested that the critics were selectively seeing what they wanted to see. Similarly, the backlash aimed at the Ibrox squad and their post-match ‘lap of honour’ following a draw against their rivals left the Belgian manager shaking his head in disbelief.
The image of Rangers basking in the adulation of 50,000 supporters immediately after the thrilling derby encounter drew derision mostly from those sporting green-tinted glasses, according to Clement. The manager was caught on camera passionately celebrating in front of the Union Bears in the Broomloan Stand right after Rabbi Matondo’s dramatic stoppage-time equalizer salvaged a crucial point in a chaotic game.
That goal prevented Celtic from establishing a four-point lead at the summit after they had taken the lead within just 22 seconds. It could potentially prove to be the pivotal moment in an enthralling title race.
Clement emphasized the significance of that comeback and pointed out that it was the first time in over thirty years a team had managed to claw back from a two-goal deficit in an Old Firm fixture. As he and his team readied themselves for a showdown with Dundee, which was subject to weather conditions, the prospect of Rangers claiming the top spot loomed.
Despite criticism from former Celtic figures such as Neil Lennon and Chris Sutton regarding the post-match celebrations, Clement stood his ground, asserting that the detractors were missing the point. He highlighted the team’s resilience in bouncing back from adversity and securing a late equalizer, underscoring the jubilation felt within the squad.
Clement dismissed the noise surrounding the celebration debate, expressing his focus on the team’s determination to win before, during, and after the match. His refusal to be swayed by colored perspectives prevalent in Glasgow’s footballing divide underscored his unwavering commitment to his team and their achievements on the pitch.
We found ourselves in a promising position with Cyriel at the end, so we went all out to secure the three points. Following a well-deserved draw, there is a sense of contentment. Although we could have achieved more, our focus was on bouncing back after falling behind.
The Rangers’ resurgence began with a penalty awarded by VAR after Silva went down under a challenge from Alistair Johnston. Despite the initial yellow card shown to the Ibrox forward by Referee John Beaton, video assistant Nick Walsh intervened, leading Beaton to review the incident on the monitor and ultimately award the spot-kick.
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers criticized the decision to overturn the call, accusing Silva of simulation. While acknowledging the need for Silva to be more resilient in some situations, Clement defended the player against diving allegations, citing visible injuries as evidence of rough treatment.
Addressing the criticism, Clement stated, “Unfair judgments are not entirely justified as some people, influenced by biases, tend to generalize. I have addressed certain actions with him, emphasizing the need to be stronger in challenges. Despite instances where he should have remained on his feet, there were clear moments of excessive physicality which caused him harm.”
Clement reaffirmed the correctness of the penalty decision, highlighting the objectivity of neutral observers. Dismissing speculations surrounding Silva’s behavior, he emphasized the player’s progress and growing maturity despite his young age.
He concluded, “Let us not fabricate a narrative around him based on isolated incidents. His emotional nature initially showed, but he is steadily improving. At 21, there is room for growth and development.”