A former top Scottish referee has slammed VAR officials for a “completely wrong” decision during Celtic’s Europa League clash, while tempers flared among Rangers fans and board members following their latest European disappointment.
Celtic’s controversial moment came during their 2-1 defeat, when a potential penalty for handball was waved away despite strong protests from players and supporters. The decision was later upheld by VAR, sparking outrage across social media and pundit circles.
Former referee Des Roache, speaking to PLZ Soccer, was adamant that the officials had got it badly wrong.
“It’s a completely wrong call. The defender’s arm is in an unnatural position, and by the current laws of the game, that’s a penalty all day long,” Roache said. “VAR is supposed to correct these mistakes, not compound them.”
The controversy has once again reignited debates about the consistency and quality of officiating in UEFA competitions, with fans questioning why similar incidents have resulted in penalties in other matches.
Meanwhile, across Glasgow, Rangers endured another difficult night in Europe, falling to a 2-1 defeat against Sturm Graz — a result that piled more pressure on under-fire boss Russell Martin.
Following the final whistle, sections of the travelling support reportedly confronted Rangers board members, voicing frustration over the team’s direction, recruitment, and lack of progress under Martin’s leadership.
Eyewitnesses claimed heated exchanges took place near the team area, though security staff quickly intervened to defuse the situation. The loss leaves Rangers facing an uphill battle to qualify from their Europa League group, adding to a growing crisis at Ibrox.
Martin later admitted his team were “nowhere near good enough,” but insisted the squad remains united and determined to turn things around.
“The fans have every right to be frustrated,” the Rangers boss said. “We need to respond with performances, not words.”
Be the first to comment