Celtic sent final Colby Donovan 'red card' verdict as IFAB rules triggered before Falkirk

Former SFA referee Bobby Madden clarifies that Colby Donovan's challenge on Zac Sapsford was correctly judged as a yellow card, not a red, under IFAB guidelines.

Bobby Madden, a former SFA referee, has provided an official analysis of Colby Donovan's tackle on Dundee United's Zac Sapsford during Celtic's 2-2 draw at Celtic Park on Wednesday. The Celtic right-back was issued a yellow card by referee Steven McLean, and VAR, overseen by Chris Graham, upheld the decision.

Madden explained that under current IFAB criteria, the challenge does not meet the threshold for a red card. He noted that Donovan played the ball before making contact with the opponent, and while there was speed and intensity in the challenge, there was insufficient contact to endanger the opponent's safety. Madden emphasized that red card offences must be absolutely clear and that the referee and VAR made the correct decision.

The analysis comes after St Johnstone's Kai Fotheringham was sent off for a similar challenge against Rangers the previous weekend. Madden argued that Fotheringham's red card was also incorrect under the same guidelines, highlighting the need for consistency in decision-making. Celtic drew level through Liam Scales and remain four points clear at the top of the Scottish Premiership ahead of their match against Falkirk.