Cameron Carter-Vickers admits he thought a penalty was given against Celtic in the Scottish Cup semi-final but was “happy” when it wasn’t.
The Hoops defender tackled Aberdeen man Junior Hoilett in the box late on in extra time as Brendan Rodgers’ men were 3-2 up at Hampden Park.
Referee Don Robertson awarded a free-kick to Celtic for a foul in the build up on Alistair Johnston by Hoilett seconds before Carter-Vickers’ challenge.
A VAR check was completed before play resumed and Peter Leven’s side equalised through an Angus MacDonald header with a minute of extra time to play.
Celtic then booked their place in the Scottish Cup final next month by winning 6-5 on penalties, setting up an Old Firm final against Rangers after they beat Hearts 2-0 on Sunday.
When asked if he thought a penalty was given, Carter-Vickers said: “Yes, I did, to be honest. It probably was a foul.
“We didn’t get given the foul before but then we did. I didn’t see him until late.
“You obviously don’t want to concede late and take it to penalties at that point.
“I was praying. I thought it was given but then when it wasn’t I was happy.”
The defender added: “The referee just said it was a foul against Alistair Johnston.
“Obviously VAR checked it and I just said if you seen it on the pitch then stick with your decision please.”