'Embarrassing' decisions draw raging Celtic response but Parkhead board share Hotline blame with SFA

Rangers left the door open for Celtic - only for Hearts to slam it shut on Brendan Rodgers’ side.

The Parkhead men were given a huge chance to reclaim control of the Premiership title race but the 10-man Hoops failed to take it after a day of VAR controversy at Tynecastle. Craig Strachan was first to have his say on the day's big moments: “When are referees and VAR officials going to start refereeing what they see? OK, Yang’s boot was high but there no malice in it. It was never a red card.”

John Caw added: “Last week a Motherwell player kicked a Celtic player in the head, no red card. This week, Celtic player kicks a Hearts man in the head, red card. It shows what Celtic are up against in Scotland.” John Scott, Grassmoor, said: “First half of Hearts vs Celtic was truly cringe-worthy. No doubt VAR will grab the headlines but the standard from both teams was awful.

"Add in a boot in the face that never caused a bruise, never mind drew blood, a 50-50 challenge that went the way of the attacking player and a handball given against a player with his eyes shut as he’s barged in the back from an opponent. After the offside was picked up by VAR, the embarrassment was overtaken by a deep sense of sadness for our game. It really is poor.”

Tam Williamson, Lanarkshire, said: “Peter Lawwell and Rodgers left the club and should never have been allowed to return and darken the doors again. Celtic lost at Tynecastle due to a missed penalty that should never have been awarded, Hearts scored from a penalty that should never have been awarded .

“The shambles within Scotland's biggest club lies totally with the board. Celtic can still win the league. But WHY bother as the board has failed the club in Europe and now domestically? What