Ex-FIFA official disagrees with Chris Sutton’s ‘furious’ Rangers verdict as footage examined
Chris Sutton believes Emmanuel Fernandez has every right to be “furious” after having his first-half goal ruled out against Aberdeen.
Fernandez headed in what he thought was a second goal for Rangers in the first half of Sunday’s Scottish Premiership clash.
However, referee David Dickinson was asked by VAR to review the incident and adjudged that Fernandez used too much force up against Dimitar Mitov.
Rangers went on to beat Aberdeen 2-0 at Pittodrie anyway as James Tavernier’s penalty added to Thelo Asgaard’s opener.
Danny Rohl will be grateful the game went ahead at Pittodrie amid weather warnings in place, as Rangers moved back to within three points of leaders Hearts.
Emmanuel Fernandez has goal contentiously ruled out vs Aberdeen
Fernandez got above Mitov and headed into an unguarded net, before wheeling away to celebrate.
There did not look a great deal in the incident, but Dickinson was asked to review the incident and felt Fernandez caught Mitov before heading in.
Sutton certainly did not agree with the decision on Sky Sports’ coverage of the match.
“If I’m Fernandez, I’m absolutely furious that this has been ruled,” Sutton said. “Mitov was weak the other night, but Fernandez only has his eyes on the ball, and he uses his arm for leverage.
“I think the goal should have given, and I’d be furious if that’s me. How is he supposed to jump with his arms down?”
Kris Boyd said he also would have let the goal stand, but added he understands why Dickinson disallowed it due to the rules of the game.
And speaking exclusively to Ibrox News, former FIFA official Keith Hackett also said the referee was correct to rule it out.
“The match officials have made the correct decision to disallow this goal,” Hackett said.
“Whilst I appreciate that a player will raise his arms to gain elevation, in reviewing the video, the forward has used his right arm illegally and has made contact with the goalkeeper.
“That has impacted on [Mitov’s] movement. It’s a foul and correct decision to disallow the goal.”
David Dickinson got separate call incorrect in Aberdeen vs Rangers
Rangers were deserved winners at Pittodrie and their win was never really in doubt from the moment Aasgaard put them ahead.
Jack Butland pulled off a “magnificent” save, but it was otherwise a pretty dominant display from Rohl’s men.
| Position | Team | Points | GD |
| 1 | Hearts | 47 | 23 |
| 2 | Rangers | 44 | 17 |
| 3 | Celtic | 41 | 17 |
Tavernier’s penalty made sure there would be no late twist, but Hackett believes the decision to point to the spot for Graeme Shinnie’s trip on Djeidi Gassama was incorrect.
“There is no foul here in this incident,” Hackett said. “The VAR at this point should intervene and ask the referee to check the incident.
“I can be certain it’s an exaggerated fall to the ground; I cannot be certain there was contact made.”
Some questionable calls either way, then, but ultimately the right outcome was reached – three points for the Gers.
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