Colby Donovan's 'inexplicable' Celtic red card error sparks VAR probe as Rangers case study flagged to SFA

VAR's decision not to upgrade Colby Donovan's yellow card for a heavy challenge on Zac Sapsford has drawn criticism for inconsistency with Kai Fotheringham's red card last weekend.

Colby Donovan's heavy challenge on Dundee United's Zac Sapsford during Celtic's 2-1 lead at Celtic Park drew a yellow card from referee Steven McLean. VAR, overseen by Chris Graham, reviewed the incident but backed the on-field decision.

The call has sparked debate over consistency in officiating. Kai Fotheringham of St Johnstone was sent off by VAR intervention for a similar challenge on Rangers' Nico Raskin the previous weekend, prompting comparisons between the two incidents. Former Celtic midfielder Scott Allan noted similarities but suggested Donovan made less contact, while ex-Rangers player Steven Thompson questioned why VAR intervened in one case but not the other.

Former referees Steve Conroy and Des Roache flagged a pattern of inconsistency across three recent similar challenges—involving George Stanger (red overturned to yellow), Fotheringham (red), and Donovan (yellow)—questioning the SFA's coaching of officials. However, former Premier League referee chief Keith Hackett defended the decision, noting Donovan's body remained in contact with the ground throughout, making it a yellow card that fell just short of a red.