Celtic refereeing controversy emerges despite emphatic Hearts victory

Martin O’Neill’s side produced a sensational attacking display against last season’s title challengers, racing into a commanding 4-0 lead before Laurent Mendy pulled one back for the visitors.

However, Conroy has questioned whether the Hearts goal should have stood, claiming the Edinburgh side took a throw-in from the wrong position in the build-up.

Speaking on The Ref’s View podcast, the former official suggested the infringement had been overlooked by the match officials.

He said: “I know I’m being picky, the distance for Hearts’ goal, the distance between where they took the throw in and where the ball went out, it was about a mile and a half of a difference. That’s picky, but I’m allowed to be picky.”

Under Law 15 of the Laws of the Game, a throw-in must be taken from the position where the ball crossed the touchline, with possession awarded to the opposition if the restart is taken incorrectly. HAVE YOUR SAY – Join the Celtic conversation in our comments section below…