Keith Hackett: Celtic denied ‘definite opportunity’ vs St Mirren due to referee error

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Credit: Imago Sat 11 April 2026 18:22, UK Keith Hackett was not impressed with the decision not to give Celtic an advantage when through on goal during their slender 1-0 victory over St Mirren on Saturday.It was a must-win match for Martin O’Neill’s side, and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s sole goal proved to be enough to secure the three points at Celtic Park.However, despite limited opportunities in the second half, the Hoops had a golden chance to go 2-0 up when Arne Engels went through, but the play was pulled back for a foul on Kelechi Iheanacho.This robbed Celtic of a fantastic chance to put the game to bed and potentially boost their goal-difference.As a result, Hackett was not amused with the decision as Celtic secured a priceless victory.Keith Hackett: Referee made error of judgement in Celtic vs St MirrenIn the final eight minutes of the game, a long ball was played up to Iheanacho, who was fouled by Alex Gogic when battling for possession. MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES However, the ball was still in Celtic’s possession, which allowed Engels to be played through one-on-one.Match stats Celtic St MirrenPossession 56%44%Shots 75Shots on target41xG0.920.48Corners 37Celtic managed to just about secure the three points Yet, before the star managed to get hold of the ball, play was called back by Duncan Nicolson for the foul, as he booked Gogic in the process.Reviewing the footage, Hackett was far from amused, believing the referee had made an error in judgment.He exclusively told Football Insider: “Referees, like players, make errors of judgment.

There was a great opportunity to play and an advantage, but sadly, the referee blew and took away a definite opportunity.“Hopefully, he will learn to delay the whistle and use his cognitive skills to anticipate and play on.”Has Kelechi Iheanacho done enough to secure a starting spot in Celtic’s lineup?Former Aberdeen chief executive Keith Wyness exclusively told Football Insider that Iheanacho could earn a new contract at Celtic if he guides them to a title.Since returning from injury, performances are beginning to improve, and he did look a threat from the bench against St Mirren.Three points secured 💪#CELSTM | #CelticFC🍀 pic.twitter.com/sygKdSfnPj— Celtic Football Club (@CelticFC) April 11, 2026 While he did miss a couple of good chances, his hold-up play almost led to a second goal before the referee halted the action.Now, with Tomas Cvancara continuing to be poor, O’Neill will surely give Iheanacho a shot in the starting XI in the hopes of fixing Celtic’s blunt frontline.