Rangers fought back from two goals down to earn a draw at Livingston despite a controversial refereeing decision that saw no foul or free kick given for a challenge on Mikey Moore. The Key Match Incident panel later confirmed a red card should have been issued.
A dramatic comeback at Almondvale
Rangers looked set for a late winner at Livingston following a spirited comeback from two goals down. Brooklyn Kabongolo and Lewis Smith had put the home side ahead, but Emmanuel Fernandez and Mikey Moore struck in the final ten minutes to secure a point for Danny Rohl’s team.
The match was intense throughout, with both sides pushing for victory. The late goals from Rangers showcased their resilience and determination to salvage something from a tough fixture away from Ibrox.
Controversy over Mikey Moore challenge
In added time, Mikey Moore was brought down by Cammy Kerr during a promising Rangers attack. Despite calls for a foul, the game continued without a free kick or any disciplinary action from referee Ryan Lee.
Most level-headed fans and commentators concluded that if the challenge occurred outside the penalty area then a free kick and a red card for denial of a goal-scoring opportunity should have been awarded.
Key Match Incident panel verdict
Following the game, the Key Match Incident panel reviewed the contentious moment involving Kerr and Moore. The panel unanimously ruled that the on-field decision was incorrect and that VAR should have intervened to recommend an on-field review.
According to the panel, a red card should have been issued for denial of a goal-scoring opportunity. This verdict directly challenges the match officials’ decision to allow Kerr to stay on the pitch, highlighting a missed opportunity to enforce the rules properly.
Danny Rohl’s reaction to the incident
Rangers manager Danny Rohl expressed his frustration in the post-match press conference, calling the incident a clear foul. He noted the critical nature of the decision in the context of the tight Premiership race.
Rohl explained that if the foul was outside the box, it warranted a red card and a free kick, while if inside, it should have been a penalty with a yellow card. He emphasised the lack of ball contact and the significance of these moments in the ongoing title battle.
Impact on the Scottish Premiership race
The decision to let Kerr remain on the pitch may have cost Rangers a crucial advantage in the closing stages of the match. Playing against a depleted Livingston side, having an opponent reduced to nine men could have opened the door for a winning goal.
With the Scottish Premiership title race as tight as ever, such refereeing errors and VAR controversies continue to fuel debates among fans and pundits alike. Rangers will be hoping for more consistent officiating in the fixtures ahead.
VAR’s role under scrutiny
This incident adds to the growing scrutiny of VAR decisions in Scottish football, especially in high-stakes matches. The failure to intervene despite clear evidence has raised questions about the effectiveness and consistency of video technology in the Premiership.
Supporters and analysts argue that VAR should act decisively in clear cases of denial of a goal-scoring opportunity to maintain the integrity of the competition and ensure fairness on the pitch.
Livingston’s depleted squad impresses
Livingston’s squad was notably depleted during the match, which made their early two-goal lead all the more impressive. Brooklyn Kabongolo and Lewis Smith put the home side ahead, demonstrating determination despite their numerical disadvantage later in the game.
The team’s resilience was on full display as they managed to hold on for a point, even as Rangers mounted a strong fightback in the final stages.
Rangers’ late goals showcase fightback
Emmanuel Fernandez and Mikey Moore’s goals in the dying minutes showcased Rangers’ never-say-die attitude. The late surge ensured the team left Almondvale with a valuable point despite the disappointment surrounding the refereeing decisions.
These moments of quality and persistence underline the squad’s ambition and belief as they continue their campaign in the Scottish Premiership.
What lies ahead for Rangers
Following a hard-fought draw, Rangers will look to build on their performance and push for victories in upcoming Premiership fixtures. Ensuring discipline and capitalising on key moments will be vital as the season progresses.
The team will also hope for fairer outcomes from VAR and refereeing decisions moving forward, to avoid similar controversies that could impact their title ambitions.
Fan take
Many Rangers supporters expressed their frustration over social media, feeling that the failure to issue a red card was a clear injustice that affected the outcome of the game. Fans highlighted the importance of VAR to get such critical decisions right to maintain fairness.
The consensus among supporters is that consistent and transparent officiating is essential, especially in the title race, and that incidents like this only add fuel to the growing debate over refereeing standards in Scottish football.
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