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Glasgow Live
Glasgow Live
Sport
Chris Doyle

The big Celtic penalty or Odsonne Edouard dive debate examined as Kris Boyd and Martin O'Neill weigh in

It was a point apiece between Celtic and Rangers this afternoon, but it's the home side that will think they should have got more from the game.

The Hoops enjoyed a dominant first half as Mohamed Elyounoussi scored a brilliant diving header to give them a 1-0 lead.

And they had a series of chances to grab a second shortly after, the biggest falling to Odsonne Edouard who appeared in prime position to pull the trigger from point blank range, before he went down under a challenge from Borna Barisic.

The striker was booked for diving however as Celtic's claims for a penalty were waved away.

John Kennedy and Scott Brown were adamant it should have been a spot kick and it turned out to be a pivotal moment as Alfredo Morelos would bring Rangers level just before the break.

It was a hot talking point among pundits, but Kris Boyd reckons Willie Collum got it spot on.

He said: "I think Willie Collum has refereed the game well, it's not a penalty kick and it's simulation, it's a dive. People will look and think he should've got his shot away, I think even if he does shoot it's getting blocked by Barisic.

"He's done the right thing in terms of trying to move it to hit it, Odsonne Edouard, but it's not a penalty and he has gone down without any contact so it's the right decision.

"I think the Celtic captain has been watching the same TV as Martin (O'Neill)..."

Former Celtic boss Martin O'Neill was more inclined to side with Brown and Sky Sports host Elidh Barbour, however.

He said: "I'm in total agreement with you (host Eilidh Barbour), if it's a disagreement with Boyd.. he's so adamant it's not a penalty, it's a dive...

"I accept the fact the referee is doing very well, he's had a good game and he's probably had a good look at it, but I'm in total disagreement, and I am absolutely on your side, Eilidh.

"I haven't seen it as closely as Kris or the Celtic captain, but I'll go with the Celtic captain..."

James McFadden and Ally McCoist both backed Boyd and believe Edouard was guilty of simulation.

McFadden said: "It’s not a penalty. Edouard has noticed the tackle and lifted his leg. It’s a dive.

"He lifts his leg because Barisic is sliding in - but he doesn't have to go down and not plant it back on the ground."

McCoist added: "It's never a penalty, I'll tell you that right now. He goes down far too easily, the referee has a perfect view.

"He lifts his right leg, and for me, he dives."

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