Celtic cruise past Hibs as refereeing controversy mars second half
Celtic delivered a convincing display in their weekend victory over Hibernian, coming from behind to maintain their 15-year unbeaten home run against the Edinburgh side.
After conceding an early goal against the run of play from Martin Boyle, the Hoops responded with quickfire strikes late in the first half from Nicolas Kuhn and Adam Idah. Reo Hatate sealed the 3–1 win in the second half with a sublime low-curled finish, ensuring Celtic’s grip on top spot remained firm with a 17-point cushion.
However, the match wasn’t without controversy. A second-half off-the-ball clash between Kuhn and Hibs defender Jack Iredale drew sharp criticism toward referee Colin Stein, who failed to intervene. Footage showed Iredale grabbing Kuhn, prompting a heated exchange between the two. Despite the intensity of the altercation, no disciplinary action was taken.
Former referees on the podcast The Ref’s View criticised Stein’s handling of the incident, branding it “very weak refereeing” and pointing to Iredale as the primary instigator. “Can’t defend that and won’t,” the podcast posted on social media platform X, responding to suggestions that Kuhn should have also been booked. They reiterated that the assistant referee likely communicated the situation through the officials’ comms system, but ultimately the decision to act rested with Stein.
Celtic now turn their attention to Wednesday’s clash with Aberdeen at Pittodrie. Manager Brendan Rodgers has already indicated that goalkeeper Viljami Sinisalo will feature in the starting XI, as preparations intensify ahead of the Scottish Cup final. With a domestic treble still in sight, the trip to face Jimmy Thelin’s Aberdeen will be viewed as a key test of Celtic’s focus and momentum.
