Rangers set for more fireworks after SFA announcement ahead of Hearts clash
Rangers face Hearts in the Scottish Premiership next Sunday at Tynecastle, where plenty of drama can be expected.
Danny Rohl’s side would move within six points of the league leaders with a win and come into the game in good form.
Rangers beat Hibernian 1-0 at Ibrox on Monday evening, with Emmanuel Fernandez grabbing a first-half winner in a tightly fought contest.
The Gers are still unbeaten in the Scottish Premiership since the appointment of Rohl, picking up six wins from his eight games in charge.
Nick Walsh to referee Rangers’ clash vs Hearts
Rangers‘ trip to Tynecastle was already expected to be packed with drama, given the league position of the two sides.
Now the clash looks certain to be a controversial one, as the Scottish FA have appointed Nick Walsh as referee for the game.
It’s the first time Walsh will take charge of a Gers match since the Premier Sports Cup semi-final at Hampden Park, where Rangers were beaten 3-1 by rivals Celtic.
The derby was packed with contentious decisions back in November, with Aaron Trusty somehow avoiding a red card despite kicking Jack Butland in the head.
Rangers demanded a meeting with the Scottish FA to discuss the incident, but were left unsatisfied with the outcome.
It was one of a number of big talking points to come out of the most recent Old Firm.
Rangers have more history with Nick Walsh
Rangers have been victims of several controversial decisions during games refereed by Walsh in recent years, and will be disappointed that he has been put in charge of such an important clash.
Walsh sent off Mohamed Diomande during a 3-1 win over Dundee United back in January, after the midfielder supposedly slapped Kevin Holt.
There was a lengthy VAR check at the time, but the referee stuck with his original decision to show the red card.
Rangers won their appeal against the sending off after the game, with the Scottish FA effectively admitting that Walsh had made the wrong call.
Rohl will hope that history doesn’t repeat itself against Hearts, as his side look to kickstart their title bid.
Enjoyed this article? Stay connected with all the latest Rangers news, updates, and behind-the-scenes content by following us on our new Instagram account – @ibroxnews247