Rangers v Hibs: Ex-FIFA ref hits back at what was said about VAR controversy
Rangers can have no protestations about conceding a penalty in the enthralling draw versus Hibernian despite Euan Booth Robertson’s opinion that VAR made an error, Keith Hackett has said.
The Gers twice surrendered a lead in a pulsating 3-3 draw at Easter Road despite Hamza Igamane’s exceptional hat-trick on Sunday (5 January).
In a contest full of incident, Philippe Clement was left frustrated when Ianis Hagi conceded a penalty for a foul on Josh Campbell, from which Martin Boyle smashed home to level things at two apiece.
Robertson, formerly of the Scotland Herald and Daily Record who now works for Transfermarkt, took to X to convey his disappointment at the decision.
He wrote: “Surprised so little has been said about Hibs’ penalty vs Rangers. It’s never a penalty and should be free-kick to Rangers.
“Hagi wins race to ball, gets body across to play it with left foot and Campbell flies into back of left leg. No idea why VAR hadn’t intervened. Clear error.”
However, when shown the footage of the incident and Robertson’s take by Ibrox News, Hackett said it was clearly a penalty.
He replied: “He [Robertson] is wrong because he has failed to recognise that the penalty was awarded for the upper body foul by Hagi, who barges into his opponent.
“A clear penalty kick.”
Ianis Hagi involved in Rangers flashpoint v Hibernian
Rangers had been coasting thanks to Igamane scoring twice inside 20 minutes at Easter Road but they were the architects of their own downfall against David Gray’s men.
Hagi was a bit reckless with his challenge and it provided a great opportunity for Hibs to get back level having fought back well from their early setback.
What should frustrate Clement more than the penalty being awarded is the fact his side managed to get back ahead through Igamane and still transpire to not with the game.
Regardless of where you stand on the penalty call, the truth of the matter is Rangers lost this game because of poor game management.
In other Rangers news, a move for a defender playing in one of Europe’s top five leagues is on the cards.
For more Rangers news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.