Former SFA referee Bobby Madden has backed the decision to show Celtic's Colby Donovan only a yellow card for his challenge on Dundee United's Zac Sapsford, saying it did not meet the threshold for a red card under IFAB guidelines. The flashpoint came during Wednesday's 2-2 draw at Celtic Park, with referee Steven McLean booking the right-back while Celtic trailed 2-1.
Chris Graham and the VAR team reviewed the incident but ultimately backed the on-field decision. Liam Scales later levelled for Celtic, keeping the Hoops four points clear at the top of the Scottish Premiership.
Comparisons to Fotheringham red card
Comparisons were drawn to the red card issued to St Johnstone's Kai Fotheringham against Rangers last weekend. The Saints wide man was sent off after VAR sent referee Chris Graham to the monitor for a similar challenge on Nico Raskin at Ibrox.
Madden, however, insists neither challenge should have been considered a red card and that VAR should not have intervened in either case.
IFAB criteria explained
Speaking on his Instagram page ahead of Celtic's clash with Falkirk this weekend, Madden said: "A much discussed decision from the match between Celtic and Dundee United on Wednesday night, which is absolutely clear in line with the laws of the game and current criteria."
He explained that the Celtic player clearly plays the ball before making contact, meaning it is a genuine attempt for the ball and not violent conduct. He said the question is whether it is reckless (a yellow card) or serious foul play endangering an opponent (a red card).
"When considering a red card offence for endangering an opponent we need to consider does he play the ball, or is there an opportunity to play the ball? Is there speed, intensity or is there any malice?" Madden said.
He noted that while there is speed and intensity in the challenge, the defender plays the ball and there is no extension of the leg even after contact. He also said Fotheringham's red card against Rangers was not a red card "even - given that point of contact."
Madden concluded: "What we need to look at here is consistency of decision-making. If you look at this challenge made by Donovan it does not meet the threshold for a red card. Yes, there is speed and intensity but there is not significant enough contact on the opponent to be considered to be endangering the safety of that opponent. Red card offences should be absolutely clear. In this situation the referee was correct and the VAR was correct not to intervene."
