It was an eagerly anticipated clash in the Premier Sports Cup semi-final – but the fans were made to wait for kick-off as Celtic face Aberdeen.
The Premiership top two battle it out for a spot in the final at Hampden – with Brendan Rodgers looking to claim the only piece of silverware that eluded him on his Celtic return last season while Jimmy Thelin is eyeing his first trophy as Aberdeen boss. It’s hotly anticipated game with one unbeaten record set to go – but a pyro display from Celtic fans left Kevin Clancy to hold up the start of the game.
Smoke filled the national stadium after the fireworks were set off – but failed to clear for the scheduled 5.30pm kick-off due to the lack of wind in Glasgow. Premier Sports commentator Rory Hamilton noted that the VAR room were unable to draw clear offside lines amid the limited visibility.
A frustrated Michael Stewart said: “I’m astonished they can’t draw the offside lines. Yes, there is a wee bit of smoke around but it’s not that bad. You would have thought the technology could draw a line. I can’t believe this level of smoke is causing such a problem to the technology.”
Clancy would consult both Rodgers and Thelin on the touchline while the players restarted their warm ups. The game was delayed by 14 minutes before the showdown was green lit.
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