Mark Clattenburg’s explanation for the Frankie Kent challenge on Callum Osmand is unlikely to end the debate among Celtic supporters any time soon.
The incident during Celtic’s dramatic title clash with Hearts immediately sparked discussion across social media, with many supporters convinced Kent should have been sent off after bringing down Osmand as he raced through on goal.
Former referee Mark Clattenburg has now given his verdict on the incident, but his explanation is unlikely to convince everyone after replays showed the Hearts defender failed to touch the ball.
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Mark Clattenburg explains why referee played on
Callum Osmand appeared to have a clear run on the Hearts goal before Kent stepped across him during the second half incident.
Celtic supporters online immediately questioned why no foul or red card was given, particularly because Kent appeared to make no contact with the ball at any stage of the challenge.
Clattenburg, however, believes the referee had enough justification to allow play to continue.
He exclusively told 67 Hail Hail, “Callum Osmand running through on goal and Frankie Kent challenges him for the ball.
“Kent makes no contact on the ball but I believe that Osmand pushed the ball too far in front before the contact and I can accept the decision of play on from the referee.”
Celtic fans still unlikely to agree with Clattenburg verdict
That explanation may make sense from a refereeing interpretation perspective, but it has done little to calm the reaction among supporters discussing the incident across social media.
The fact Kent completely missed the ball remains the biggest talking point, especially with Osmand appearing to break through into a dangerous position before the contact arrived.
Much of the debate centres around whether Osmand still had enough control of the situation to qualify as a genuine goalscoring opportunity.
Clattenburg clearly believes the heavy touch changed the picture for the referee. Many Celtic supporters, however, still see it as an incident where Hearts escaped punishment.
Given the intensity surrounding the title-deciding atmosphere, this always felt like a decision that was going to be heavily scrutinised long after the final whistle.
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