Former Premier League referee gives verdict on semi-final flash points
Dermot Gallagher analysed incidents involving Giorgos Giakoumakis, Anthony Stewart and Ryan Kent
Last updated 16th Jan 2023
Former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher has given his verdict on the big talking points across the Viaplay Cup semi-finals over the weekend.
Kilmarnock boss Derek McInnes was adamant they should have been awarded a penalty when Giorgos Giakoumakis bundled over Joe Wright late in the game.
Celtic were only leading by one goal at that point but protests were waved away before the Hoops broke up the park and the Greek striker sealed their win.
Looking at the incident on Sky Sports News' RefWatch, Gallagher thinks Ange Postecoglou's side got away with one.
He said: "I think the clue is the ball. Where is the ball? There's no ball in the picture, it's still not there, there it goes.
"I think he's taken a massive risk and he's got lucky.
"I think it should be a penalty."
There was also talking points during Sunday's semi-final clash between Aberdeen and Rangers.
Aberdeen captain Anthony Stewart was shown a straight red card by Nick Walsh for a reckless challenge on Fashion Sakala in injury time.
Gallagher says Walsh had no choice but to give Stewart his marching orders.
He said: "It's the sheer intensity and aggression of the tackle.
"I don't think he can have any complaint.
"I did see him saying to the referee 'I got the ball.'
"He didn't get the ball, but I think even if he had, it would have been an added bonus."
Minutes later Dons defender Liam Scales went down following an off-the-ball clash with Ibrox winger Ryan Kent.
The incident went unpunished with Scales making his point clear to the referee after going to ground.
Gallagher doesn't think Kent should have been sent off and thinks a yellow would have been the right call.
He said: "This is a tough one for the referee because it's behind his back.
"The VAR looks at it - I don't think he swipes like Liam (Scales) says he does.
"He flicks out at him but it's not a punch. If the referee had seen it, he'd have probably given a yellow card.
"I don't think he'd have got a red."