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Hearts owners issue statement on Celtic penalty call vs Motherwell

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The Foundation of Hearts have issued a statement on the penalty awarded to Celtic against Motherwell.

The fan-run organisation, which owns a majority stake in the Tynecastle club, have responded ahead of their title-deciding clash with the Hoops at Parkhead on Saturday.

Hearts’ celebrations of their win over Falkirk were dampened when the news of a last-gasp Celtic winner had significantly altered the state of play in the title-race.

The Jambos camp — which includes many neutrals — are far from happy at it.

BE HONEST: Do you think Celtic’s late penalty should’ve been given…? 👀

Hearts owners ‘extremely concerned’ by Celtic penalty call vs Motherwell

Via the Foundation of Hearts: “All of us at the Foundation of Hearts congratulate our magnificent team and manager, Derek McInnes, on their outstanding achievements in this momentous season…

“And urge all Heart of Midlothian supporters to get right behind them for Saturday’s final game of the campaign.

READ MORE: SFA to ‘probe’ Derek McInnes comments after Celtic penalty controversy

Heart of Midlothian v Falkirk - William Hill Premiership
Photo by Malcolm Mackenzie/Getty Images

“We have, however, been extremely concerned by a number of refereeing and VAR decisions across the last two rounds of fixtures, which have had a significant impact on outcomes for Hearts and others.

“That this has occurred at such a crucial stage of the season is particularly disappointing.

“We understand that the club shares these concerns and has made representations to the football authorities seeking clarification on recent decisions.

“At a time when Scottish football is subject to heightened scrutiny, both nationally and internationally, it is important that confidence in officiating standards is maintained.

“We therefore call on those responsible for the officiating of Saturday’s match to ensure that the highest standards of decision-making are applied, so that the game is decided by the players on the pitch and the team is given the fair opportunity it has earned.”

The goal from Kelechi Iheanacho means that any win against Hearts on the final day guarantees the title for Celtic.

After the DRAMATIC win over Motherwell, give us your predictions for Celtic’s title showdown vs Hearts 👇

If Celtic win, they win the league…

Celtic and Heart's points tallies heading into the final day showdown
Split image, photos by Malcolm Mackenzie/Getty Images and WM Sport Media/Getty Images

A dramatic run-in from Celtic

Hearts’ form post-split has demanded flawless results from Celtic to remain in contention to lift the trophy in May

Falkirk represented the opening challenge completed. Easter Road followed, and even with a red card for Hibs’ Jamie McGrath, Celtic required rescuing by Iheanacho to scrape through.

During the Glasgow Derby, Rangers went ahead, but Celtic fought back once more. It was Daizen Maeda who proved decisive on that occasion.

Now at Fir Park, the match provided the ultimate drama. The press might attempt to diminish Celtic’s victory, but once more, Iheanacho delivered the rescue