SFA officials blasted by pundit after Ryan Kent incident in Rangers draw v St Mirren
We’re delighted to welcome Tam McManus as our exclusive Rangers columnist as each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at Ibrox…
Tam McManus has slammed Scottish officials for their failure to ensure VAR has transitioned smoothly into the Premiership amid a spate of controversial incidents.
Rangers saw VAR work in their favour in the 1-1 draw with St Mirren on Saturday.
Kevin Clancy booked Ryan Kent for simulation when he went down in the penalty box before a VAR check showed that Kent was actually fouled, leading to a James Tavernier equaliser in Paisley.
McManus isn’t anti-VAR but he has some strong feelings about those who are operating the newly-adopted technology.
“I thought it was a stonewall penalty kick,” McManus told Ibrox News. “I don’t understand why it took so long to get to that decision.
“One quick check of that and instantly you should realise it was a mistake and a penalty.
“Again, VAR in Scottish football is taking far too long.
“But I don’t think it’s VAR that’s the problem, it’s the people operating it.
“Unfortunately in Scotland, the referees and officials here are getting shown up.
“We all realise the referees need a hand but it doesn’t seem to be helping because of the people that are in the VAR studios are inept.
“There’s a lot of work to do over the break to sort these issues out because it’s not been a good start for VAR in Scotland.”
Controversies have happened across the Scottish Premiership since VAR started being used.
In other Rangers news, the Gers are ready to bid £5million to beat Celtic to the signing of one of their long-term targets.