“WTF IS THAT CHANT? CELTIC IS A VERY PATHETIC CLUB” – Falkirk Boss John McGlynn Explodes After Narrow Defeat, Slams Celtic Fans, Martin O’Neill and Referee

Falkirk manager John McGlynn launched a furious and unfiltered attack on Celtic following his side’s narrow 1–0 defeat, delivering one of the most explosive post-match interviews of the season as he accused Celtic fans of crossing the line and claimed the referee failed to protect the integrity of the game.

Benjamin Nygren’s first-half strike in the 44th minute proved decisive as Celtic edged the contest away from home, but the football itself was quickly overshadowed by controversy after full-time.

McGlynn did not hold back.

“That chant changed the game”

Speaking moments after the final whistle, the Falkirk boss made it clear that his anger was not directed solely at the scoreline.

“What was that chant?” McGlynn said angrily.

“Honestly, Celtic is a very pathetic club if that’s what they allow from their fans.”

According to McGlynn, a nonchalant chant from sections of the Celtic support midway through the second half disrupted his players’ focus and shifted the momentum of the match at a crucial point when Falkirk were pushing for an equaliser.

“We were in the game. We were competing. Then that chant starts, and suddenly everything changes,” he said.

“The referee heard it. Everyone heard it. And nothing was done.”

Referee and O’Neill dragged into storm

McGlynn went further, accusing the match officials of failing in their duty to manage the atmosphere.

“If the referee had any authority, the game should have been paused,” he argued.

“You can’t talk about respect and fair play and then ignore things like that.”

The Falkirk manager also took aim at Celtic interim boss Martin O’Neill, questioning his silence during the incident.

“Martin O’Neill has been around this game long enough,” McGlynn said.

“If you really care about football, you don’t just stand there and pretend nothing is happening.”

Those comments immediately raised eyebrows, given O’Neill’s reputation as one of the most respected figures in Scottish football.

Celtic win, but controversy dominates

On the pitch, Celtic’s performance was professional rather than spectacular. Nygren’s composed finish just before halftime separated the sides, and despite late pressure from Falkirk, Celtic held on to secure the three points.

However, the result was quickly pushed into the background as McGlynn’s words spread rapidly across social media, dividing opinion among fans and pundits.

Some backed the Falkirk boss, claiming chants have increasingly influenced matches and calling for stronger action from referees. Others accused McGlynn of deflecting blame from his team’s inability to score.

Fans react, SFA pressure grows

Celtic supporters responded angrily online, dismissing McGlynn’s comments as “excuses” and accusing him of disrespecting a historic club. Falkirk fans, meanwhile, praised their manager for “speaking the truth” and standing up for his players.

With chants, referee authority, and crowd influence becoming recurring themes across Scottish football this season, pressure is now mounting on the SFA to clarify guidelines on when games should be paused or intervened.

Whether John McGlynn faces any consequences for his strong language remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Celtic may have taken the points, yet the fallout from this match is only just beginning.