Jim Goodwin has questioned the decision that handed Celtic a penalty as St Mirren lost 4-0 to Celtic in Paisley.
The Buddies were looking to complete a league double over Celtic, however, their efforts at the SMISA Stadium fell short of the mark. The Saints had coped well up until the 75th minute before a stunning five minutes for Celtic put the game beyond Goodwin’s men.
St Mirren lost to Celtic. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Speaking after the final whistle, the Buddies boss insists he and his players won’t dwell on the result: “We won’t get too disappointed. There are lessons to be learned for sure. Of course, we’re disappointed to lose the game. The first half we did ok, I don’t think there was much in it in the opening 45.”
The Buddies were on the front foot during the first half and caused Neil Lennon’s side a few problems. Once Celtic had scored the opener, they were in the driving seat. Despite identifying him as a potential threat, the Saints manager was disappointed that Tom Rogic was able to get a shot off.
The Irishman said: “The goal is disappointing, obviously we know Tom Rogic favours his left foot and we didn’t do enough to put him onto his right and it’s a brilliant finish from him. The second half I thought we were poor.
Celtic scored a penalty. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
“Credit to Celtic, I thought they were very good, and I thought they upped the tempo in the second half. Their movement was a lot better and they caused us a lot of problems.” That said, it was still only 1-0 up until about the 80th minute. Then we had a four or five minute spell where things started to crumble and now we’re standing on the back of a 4-0 defeat.”
With the game still at 1-0 Celtic were awarded a penalty with Ryan Flynn judged to have fouled Greg Taylor by referee Don Robertson. The decision was heavily protested by the Buddies players and Goodwin was unsure whether it was a penalty at all.
“He said: “I’ve watched the penalty back and we’ve had a number of incidents similar to that this season go against us. We played against Hibs and there was a slight bit of contact on Jamie Murphy. It’s the same, there’s a slight touch on Taylor’s shoulder but I don’t think it’s enough for his legs to just crumble beneath him.
“Unfortunately, that’s the way the game’s going. We’ve had our fair share of soft penalties go against us this season.”
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