Sky Sports Pundit Calls Out Kilmarnock Midfielder Over Celtic Incident

The clash between Kilmarnock’s Liam Donnelly and Celtic goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel at Rugby Park has sparked widespread discussion, including an in-depth analysis on Sky Sports’ Ref Watch. The challenge, which occurred as Kilmarnock trailed 2-0, saw Donnelly charge towards Schmeichel and narrowly miss him with an elbow, prompting differing opinions from the panel.

Former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher defended the decision made by on-field referee Nick Walsh, who issued a yellow card to Donnelly, a call subsequently upheld by VAR. Gallagher, known for his straightforward assessments, said: “Yellow card. The referee dealt with it really well.” According to Gallagher, the decision fell within the realm of correct officiating, suggesting that while the challenge was aggressive, it did not meet the threshold for violent conduct necessary for a red card.

However, Gallagher’s measured view was challenged by fellow panellist Stephen Warnock. The former Liverpool and England defender expressed a much sterner take on the incident, pointing out the potential severity of Donnelly’s actions. Warnock highlighted the immediate reaction from Schmeichel, who appeared incensed and had to be held back by teaMMAte Auston Trusty.

Warnock did not mince his words: “He should go for that. It is naughty. That is intent to smash him across the face.” The pundit believed the elbow, if fully connected, could have had serious consequences for Schmeichel stating the anger from Kasper is because he knows if Liam had gotten his way, it could have “broken his jaw,”

The moment has divided opinions among pundits and fans, with some agreeing with Gallagher’s assertion that Walsh managed the situation appropriately, while others side with Warnock’s view that Donnelly should have been shown a red card for endangering an opponent. He might not have connected, but the intention was to harm an opponent.

The VAR decision to back Walsh’s original call has brought the use of video Technology into the spotlight once more, raising questions about consistency in handling physical altercations on the pitch. For Brendan Rodgers’ Celtic, the incident was a reminder of the intense physicality they often face, while Kilmarnock boss Derek McInnes may feel fortunate his player stayed on the pitch, especially given Donnelly’s previous disciplinary record.

As debates continue, the incident serves as an example of how moments of aggression can swiftly alter the course of a match and stir opinions long after the final whistle.