Shocking: Rangers Penalty Farce Proves Costly for Celtic Women

Celtic Women were edged out 3-2 by Rangers in a fiery SWPL encounter at New Douglas Park. Despite battling back twice from behind, a controversial penalty decision ultimately swung the match in Rangers’ favour, leaving the Hoops with plenty of frustration.

Fresh off their impressive midweek showing against Chelsea, Elena Sadiku’s side showed determination and grit in the face of adversity. Twice they rallied from a goal down, but Rangers took full advantage of a late error to secure the points.

🗣️ “It’s a soft one”

Analysis of the Rangers penalty incident ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/O3h3QAWYQC

— Sky Sports Scotland (@ScotlandSky) November 17, 2024

Referee Takes Centre Stage

The key talking point came early in the second half when, with the match finely poised at 1-1, the referee awarded Rangers a highly dubious penalty. Replays appeared to show Celtic’s McGregor being fouled by a Rangers player in the box, but the official ruled in favour of the visitors.

Celtic manager Elena Sadiku, incensed by the decision, was sent to the stands after sarcastically applauding the referee’s call. The decision drew widespread criticism, with commentators labelling it “soft” and fans in the stands voicing their disbelief. Rangers converted the spot-kick to take a 2-1 lead, leaving Celtic chasing the Game.

Despite the setback, Celtic showed great resolve to pull level at 2-2. However, a defensive lapse late on allowed Rangers to snatch the winner, leaving the Hoops with nothing to show for their efforts.

Post-Match Reaction

Celtic star Lucy Ashworth didn’t hold back after the match, calling out the standard of officiating.

It was another frustrating chapter in a fixture often dominated by drama, with the penalty incident overshadowing what was otherwise a thrilling Game. Willie Collum, who observed the match from the stands, will undoubtedly have plenty to consider as refereeing standards in the SWPL come under fresh scrutiny.

For Celtic, the focus now shifts to bouncing back in their next outing, but the pain of this defeat will surely linger.

🗣️ ‘It is difficult when you are playing against other factors…shocking every time it is that particular ref.’

Lucy Ashworth-Clifford was frustrated by Rangers’ penalty award as Celtic lost 3-2 to Jo Potter’s side.#CelticFC | #RangersFC | #SWPL pic.twitter.com/cY4yUruI6G

— PLZ Soccer (@PLZSoccer) November 17, 2024