Bemused Billy Dodds rinses INVERNESS penalty award as Scottish Cup VAR call leaves boss asking 'what can he do?"

Confused Billy Dodds has doubled down on his criticism of VAR - despite Inverness Caley Thistle being awarded a penalty against Falkirk using the technology during the Scottish Cup semi-final.

Ahead of the Hampden showpiece, Dodds admitted he was "wary" of the technology having kept track of the flashpoints in the Premiership this season, with the use of VAR, a new experience for the Championship side and their League One rivals at the national stadium. That led to a hint of irony in the opening goal when Wallace Duffy’s cross clipped Leon McCann’s arm, leading to referee Nick Walsh being sent to the monitor.

This saw the spot kick awarded and Billy Mckay stepped up convert the opener, before Hibs loanee Daniel Mackay found a second before the half-time whistle. Mckay would net his second of the afternoon to secure a 3-0 victory and set up a date with either Rangers or Celtic on June 3, but the early VAR call was among the top talking points at full-time despite the convincing victory.

Asked about the decision to award a penalty, Dodds told Viaplay: "I saw it, and I don't like the handball rule. I went over to my analyst and saw it. I mean, he has smashed it from about a yard. What are you meant to do? I'll take it, and I did take it. I turned away and it went in but what are you meant to do with that?"

Pressed by Stephen Craigan on if he would be unhappy to see that given against Inverness, Dodds went on: "I wouldn't be happy. The referees are quite right to say that it's the rule, but it's the way the rules are interpreted. That is the problem here.

"I would love for them just to stick to offsides and goal line technology and not get involved with handballs and tackles. I think there is a few they are getting