AN EMOTIONAL Joe Hart had his last hurrah at Celtic by helping Brendan Rodgers’ men to a 1-0 Scottish Cup Final success over Rangers at Hampden yesterday.
The 37-year-old keeper, who has played for England 75 times, was keen to end his career on a great note and defeated Philippe Clement’s Ibrox team with a dominant and untouchable display.
Hart was only in danger just before the hour mark when Abdallah Sima turned the ball in at the far post, but Nico Raskin’s use of both hands to push the goalkeeper in the back as he attempted to stop James Tavernier’s inswinging corner kick from the left was definitively shown by VAR footage.
The shotstopper was booked by referee Nick Walsh for his appeals before the attempt was appropriately ruled out. Fortunately, when the match official looked at the incident again on the touchline monitor, the yellow card was revoked.
With one minute remaining and extra time about to start, Adam Idah scored the game-winning goal after Jack Butland, his opposing number, could only parry a swerving effort from Paulo Bernardo. Hart and his teammates celebrated immediately.
Shortly after the Cup ceremony, the affable former Manchester City No. 1 said goodbye live on Premier Sports TV. Hart said, “I’m at a loss for words.” I have a feeling that my house will eventually be struck by a meteor. It’s all been so unbelievable.
“A few months ago, I decided to complete because I thought it was the appropriate thing to do. In the end, it all comes down to how successful the club is and how content everyone is.
I consider myself fortunate to have been able to ride it out in that manner. When you visit Celtic for the first time, you have no idea what to expect—in a wonderful manner.
“In the goalkeeping world, I realized that the club would not immediately accept me, regardless of whether I was a good signing.” “I was eager to participate and I felt compelled to demonstrate my values.” It’s been amazing. “These three years have been amazing.”
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