Former referees have criticized match official Nick Walsh after Celtic midfielder Mika Baur escaped punishment for a reckless challenge during Sunday’s 3-0 Premier Sports Cup quarter-final defeat to Rangers at Ibrox.
The Refereeing Controversy
During the match, Baur went to ground following a collision with Rangers striker Ryan Naderi. Walsh awarded a free-kick to Celtic, a decision that has drawn sharp criticism from former officials:
- Des Roache and Steve Conroy (The Ref’s View): Insisted Baur should have received a straight red card, calling the on-field decision to award Celtic a free-kick entirely incorrect.
- Mark Clattenburg: Described Baur’s tackle as late and reckless, arguing it deserved at least a yellow card. While Clattenburg felt the challenge lacked the speed, force, and malice required for a red card, he agreed the referee misjudged the incident.
Match Summary and Manager Reaction
The controversial call did not alter the trajectory of the match. Rangers delivered a convincing performance, securing a 3-0 victory courtesy of a double from Dan Neil and a second-half strike by Kevin Kelsy. The win advances Derek McInnes’ side to the semi-finals, where they will face his former club, Aberdeen.
Celtic manager Martin O’Neill offered no excuses for the outcome, admitting his side was second best. He noted that despite creating promising counter-attacking chances in the first half, poor decision-making in possession allowed Rangers to take full control of the tie.