Michael Stewart has claimed that Ange Postecoglou shaking referee Bobby Madden’s hand straight after Celtic’s defeat to Rangers was a ‘big thing’, as he told Premier Sports (17/04/22 at 4:40 pm).
Rangers recorded a 2-1 win over their Old Firm rivals, after the Scottish Cup semi-final tie was sent to extra-time at Hampden.
Even though the Gers had to endure those same 120 minutes against Braga in the Europa League on Thursday night, it was no bother for them to go through it all again yesterday.
But, one big talking point during yesterday’s match was the performance of referee, Bobby Madden, who came under serious stick from Celtic legends, John Hartson and Chris Sutton for his officiating.
It would have been easy for Celtic’s man on the touchline to verbally go at Madden after the full-time whilst, but instead, he shook the referee’s hand which was praised by Stewart.
“One other thing, I have to say,” said Stewart. “But Ange Postecoglou went right over to shake the referee’s hand.
“It was a big, big thing. He could have easily turned around and said as a Celtic-minded person that Bobby Madden got a lot of bad decisions. He did (showed a lot of class).
“I thought to go over and shake the referee’s hand. It matters a lot because, on the balance of play, Rangers were the better side. The referee didn’t have a great game, but that showed a lot of class from the Celtic manager.”
Only a number of weeks ago, Celtic fans were partying at Ibrox, so the rough has to come with the smooth.
It will be a bitter pill to swallow, but the Bhoys should still seal the Scottish Premiership title with a few weeks remaining.
At the end of the day, where Celtic were from what happened last season, to where they are now, is some turnaround from big Ange.
He has helped transform the style and mood around the camp, which was at a serious low only 12 months ago, and it needs to be remembered, he didn’t exactly arrive as a big name.
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