Clattenburg Claims Hibs Goal Against Celtic Should Have Been Chalked Off
Former Premier League official Mark Clattenburg believes Celtic were victims of a significant officiating error during their narrow 2-1 victory over Hibernian. While the Hoops secured three points, a controversial equalizing goal from Hibs captain Joe Newell has sparked fresh debate regarding the consistency of VAR in the Scottish Premiership.
The match initially swung in Celtic’s favor after VAR intervened to dismiss Hibs midfielder Jamie McGrath. Daizen Maeda capitalized on the man advantage to put the visitors ahead, but the lead was short-lived. Just before the interval, Newell bundled the ball into the net to level the score. Although the goal underwent a lengthy review by VAR official Don Robertson, the strike was eventually allowed to stand despite suggestions that the ball struck Newell’s arm.
The “Behind the Goal” Perspective
While substitute Kelechi Iheanacho eventually secured the win for the Hoops, Clattenburg insists the Hibs equalizer was illegal. He points to a specific camera angle as the definitive proof that the officials missed.
Speaking to 67HailHail, Clattenburg explained that Newell controlled the ball with his chest, but it touched his arm as it dropped to the turf. He noted that while some angles make it look like a legitimate goal, the camera positioned behind the net confirms the handball. He emphasized that because the goal was scored immediately following that contact, the laws of the game dictate it must be disallowed, regardless of whether the handball was accidental.
The result keeps Celtic level on points with league leaders Hearts, maintaining a four-point cushion over Rangers ahead of the Monday night fixtures.
Martin O’Neill’s Verdict
Celtic manager Martin O’Neill admitted to having a biased perspective but largely agreed with the assessment that the goal was contentious. Reflecting on the incident post-match, O’Neill noted that his staff, including Gavin Strachan, flagged the issue immediately on the touchline monitors.
O’Neill expressed a complicated relationship with the technology. He admitted that while he initially supported the introduction of VAR during the 2018 World Cup, he is now unsure if it benefits the sport. The Celtic boss suggested that the system might be preventing referees from officiating instinctively. He concluded by stating he was simply relieved the decision did not cost his side points in a tight title race.
Scottish Premiership Standings (Top 3)
As of May 4, 2026
| Club | Points | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hearts | 78 | Currently top on goal difference |
| Celtic | 78 | Level with leaders after Hibs win |
| Rangers | 74 | Play Hearts on Monday evening |
“The law is clear. Even if the handball is accidental, a goal scored directly from that contact must be disallowed.” — Mark Clattenburg