Basque journalist gives verdict on surprise incident in Athletic Club v Rangers
Rangers battled well in their Europa League trip to Athletic Club, but crashed out in disappointing fashion in the Basque Country.
Barry Ferguson’s side faced a tough challenge at San Mames, crashing to a 2-0 defeat after goals from Oihan Sancet and Nico Williams.
Despite the Basque side’s dominance against 10 men in the first leg, they could not find the back of the net as the sides drew 0-0 at Ibrox.
There was another controversial refereeing decision in the second leg, which is now dividing opinion.
Rangers non-penalty call defended by Basque journalist
Rangers were furious in the first half in the Basque Country, as Cyriel Dessers had his shirt pulled by Dani Vivian in the penalty area, with his shirt even torn in the process.
Ally McCoist claimed that this should have resulted in a penalty by the letter of the law, but those in Spain disagree.
Basque Country-based journalist Andoni Otxotorena has now claimed that the referee made the right decision when he chose not to award a penalty to Rangers because of the impact of the contact.
“Well, even though the action was spectacular, I think Vivian’s decision was very fair, and I think it’s right not to call a penalty,” he posted on X.
“He has a minimal grip, but it doesn’t seem like his hold is enough to stop Dessers from reaching the ball.”
Decisions cost Rangers v Athletic Club
Rangers fans will be frustrated throughout this tie, given that fine margins in refereeing decisions have played such a huge part in it.
Robin Propper was sent off in the first leg in a decision considered harsh, while they also gave a penalty away at Ibrox.
Dessers not being awarded the penalty stopped Rangers potentially going ahead, and they then found themselves 1-0 down at the break as John Souttar gave a penalty away at the other end.
Nico Williams then doubled the home side’s lead in the second half with a well-timed header, and Rangers could not break down their stubborn defence.
Although they were ultimately beaten by the better team, the game could have gone a lot differently had they earned the first penalty and taken the lead.
Rangers now have nothing to play for after a disappointing domestic campaign and will shift focus to next season, with it unclear who will be the next permanent manager.