We took a closer look at some of the key refereeing calls from Saturday’s Scottish Cup semi-final clash between Hearts and Aberdeen.
With VAR in operation and John Beaton officiating, the Gorgie faithful were left unimpressed, expressing their displeasure from the stands.
Just before half-time, Michael Steinwender was sent off for a last-man foul on Topi Keskinen. The Hearts fans voiced their frustration as the Austrian defender left the pitch with his shirt pulled over his head in disappointment.
Although Pape Habe Gueye put Aberdeen ahead, Hearts were the more dominant side before and after the red card. Lawrence Shankland had equalised prior to the dismissal, but the tide turned when Cammy Devlin was also sent off after picking up a second yellow. Despite being down to nine men, Oday Dabbagh scored to wrap up a gritty and dramatic semi-final that kept the officials busy throughout. Here are five major refereeing moments from the match:
Aberdeen’s goal – Offside check
This VAR check took longer than expected following a set piece. Gueye seemed to break free from the middle of the box, prompting VAR to examine the goal. Despite the delay, the goal was eventually upheld.
Cammy Devlin’s penalty shout vs Graeme Shinnie
Devlin drove Hearts forward and cut across Shinnie, going to ground while clutching his ankle. Some calls for a penalty were made, but both Beaton and VAR dismissed it without a stadium announcement.
Michael Steinwender’s red card
A pivotal moment. Keskinen had used his speed to get past Steinwender about 35 yards from goal, with Adam Forrester chasing. Beaton immediately produced a red, and VAR supported the call.
Hearts icon John Robertson commented on Sportsound: “Beaton couldn’t wait to show the red. The debate is whether Forrester or Penrice could cover—probably not. It’s a red.”
James McFadden added on BBC Scotland: “Keskinen had him beat. One more touch and he’s in the box ready to shoot. That’s a clear goalscoring chance and a major shift in Aberdeen’s favour.”
Devlin’s first yellow – Challenge on Gueye
In a scrappy second half, Devlin got booked for a challenge on Gueye despite an offside being flagged. Beaton still awarded a free kick and showed a yellow, much to Devlin’s dismay.
Devlin’s second yellow
Late in extra time, Devlin made a slightly late challenge on Dante Polvara. Though contact was minimal, Beaton issued a second yellow, reducing Hearts to nine men. The second goal for Aberdeen followed soon after, leaving many at Hearts questioning the call.
Mike Garrity sent off
Assistant coach Garrity was shown red after the final whistle, an incident many fans might have missed as they exited. While it’s unclear what sparked it, manager Neil Critchley and his team made sure Beaton and his officials knew how they felt about the game’s officiating.
