“Crazy”- Celtic star ranks Thelo Aasgaard ‘crazy’ tackle the worst he’s ever seen as Anthony Ralston provides the proof

Arne Engels has slammed Thelo Aasgaard’s red card challenge, calling it one of the worst tackles he’s ever witnessed in football.

Rangers’ playmaker Aasgaard was shown an early red after a high studs-up challenge on Anthony Ralston during a frantic first half.

Referee Nick Walsh didn’t hesitate to send the Norwegian off, leaving Gers with a huge uphill battle as they trailed 1-0 following Johnny Kenny’s opener.

Engels, who was just yards from the incident, didn’t hold back:
“Yeah, that was an incredible tackle. It was crazy. Going into someone like that is just insane. You have to protect your teammates. I had a good view, and it didn’t look good. Tackles like that have no place on a football pitch.”

He added:
“Was it one of the worst I’ve seen in my career? Probably. We know big games involve intense duels, and we had some of those too, which is positive. But that tackle crossed the line. As a team, we reacted well and I think the referee made the right call.”

Despite the challenge leaving him with ripped shorts and a bloody graze on his thigh, Ralston continued to play.

Reflecting on the incident, he said:
“First of all, it was high – I’ve got the cuts to prove it. I haven’t seen the replay personally, but I felt the force. You run the risk, and he ran the risk. He got sent off, and that was the decision.”

Ralston was later at the center of another controversial moment when he was penalised for handball as James Tavernier equalised from the spot for ten-man Rangers.

The defender, who avoided a second yellow, explained:
“I was trying to get my body in the way and kept my hands tucked in to avoid a penalty. From what I’ve been told, the decision was harsh. But it’s in the past. I’m just happy we won and are through to the final.”

Extra-time saw Callum McGregor fire Celtic ahead with a thunderbolt before Callum Osmand wrapped up a 3-1 victory, giving the champions their first derby win since last year’s League Cup Final penalty shootout triumph. Ralston admitted the win was a relief:
“Obviously, we all want to beat Rangers. I’m glad we won a semi-final and can now focus on the final. We’ve got to rest and regroup for Thursday.”

The Hampden crowd also celebrated Martin O’Neill, whose return has lifted spirits following Brendan Rodgers’ recent departure.

Ralston praised the interim boss:
“He’s been brilliant – full of energy, positivity, and experience. He, along with the coaching staff, has been fantastic for us.”

Meanwhile, McGregor highlighted his stunning goal as a game-changer:
“I found some space, took the shot, and thankfully it went in.

That moment helped us settle, and Ozzy sealed it in the end. It was a fantastic effort from everyone – players, staff, and fans.”

For Osmand, the match capped an unforgettable week. The ex-Fulham star, who made his senior debut midweek, said:
“There are no words to describe today. It’s probably the craziest and best day of my life – nothing can top this.”