Celtic hero Tom Boyd launched a scathing attack on referee John Beaton after claiming the whistler "bottled" a major penalty decision at Parkhead.

The former Hoops captain watched in dismay as Beaton waved play on after the ball appeared to hit a Dunfermline player's arm during their Betfred Cup clash.

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Boyd was furious at the decision not to award a spot-kick and hit Beaton with both barrels during his time on commentary for Celtic TV.

And he slaughtered the man in the middle for his decision, insisting he would be "welcome down his pub tonight" after a "pre-meditated" choice.

Glasgow Times: Beaton refused to point to the spotBeaton refused to point to the spot

Boyd blasted: "That’s a penalty. It’s a penalty kick.

"His arms are up in an unnatural position and it’s a stonewall penalty.

"And once again, Celtic denied by decisions by the referee, and the referee has bottled that.

 

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"That’s an absolutely scandalous decision by John Beaton.

“What does John Beaton not know about the new rules? If he doesn’t know that’s a penalty he should not be in the middle of the park refereeing a football game.

"He’ll probably be welcome down his pub tonight again."

He went on: "I’m not mystified. John Beaton, it’s obviously a pre-meditated decision not to give that penalty because it was so late in the game."

Celtic struggled past the Pars in Glasgow and won 2-1 thanks to a James Forrest winner in extra-time.

The SFA have been approached for comment.