Ex-SFA officials’ ‘shocking’ verdict on Celtic flashpoint

A panel of former referees has weighed in on a controversial refereeing moment from last weekend’s clash between Celtic and Dundee United, centring on defender Julian Araujo.

The Bournemouth loanee was shown a yellow card by referee Nick Walsh after a late challenge on Will Ferry, with the official opting against harsher punishment for the Mexican international. However, the decision has since drawn strong criticism from ex-officials.

The Ref’s View, an X account run by former SFA referees Des Roache and Steve Conroy, delivered a damning assessment of the incident, arguing that Araujo should have been sent off.

They claimed the tackle was “as clear a red card as you will ever see,” adding that while Walsh may not have had the best angle, the purpose of VAR is to intervene and ensure the correct outcome.

According to them, the failure to upgrade the booking was “nothing less than shocking,” while also pointing out that such officials continue to be sanctioned by the SFA.

Despite the controversy, Araujo went on to produce a composed performance in what was his second appearance at Celtic Park, following a substitute outing against Rangers the previous week.

Making his first start since arriving on loan until the end of the season, the former Barcelona right-back combined effectively with Yang Hyun-jun, giving the South Korean licence to push forward down the right flank against Jim Goodwin’s side.

With the result effectively settled in the second half, Martin O’Neill withdrew Araujo and handed minutes to Celtic academy prospect Colby Donovan.

The defender received a warm ovation from the Parkhead crowd as he left the pitch.

Celtic now turn their attention to a midweek clash with Falkirk, who head into Wednesday’s fixture in good spirits after securing a 2-0 victory over St Mirren in Paisley.