(Credit: Imago)
(Credit: Imago)

Bobby Madden reacts to new camera angle of huge Rangers vs Hearts controversy

Samuel Fabre

Samuel was hired to the writing team at Breaking Media in August 2025, having graduated from Bournemouth University earlier that summer. During his studies, Samuel gained work experience with Get Football Group and Trill Magazine. Based in Oxford, Sam has covered Rangers extensively since joining the company, with a laser focus on preview and matchday build-up content.

Published on

Rangers lost 2-0 to Hearts on Saturday, with the Bears now sitting 10th in the Scottish Premiership.

Russell Martin has been backed by Andrew Cavenagh, despite fans demanding he be sacked following the awful start to the season.

Lawrence Shankland's double against Rangers gave Hearts a first win at Ibrox since 2014, as boos were aimed in Martin's direction throughout the match.

Former SPFL referee Bobby Madden gave his verdict on the controversial circumstances of Shankland's first goal, with many fans claiming a handball in the buildup.

Russell Martin urges on his Rangers players at Ibrox
Martin is facing calls to be sacked. (Credit: Imago)

Bobby Madden claims Hearts' first goal should have been disallowed

As Hearts regained possession in the 21st minute, Shankland appeared to control the ball with his arm, with the resulting counter-attack leading to him scoring the opening goal.

Whilst referee Steven McLean and VAR did not disallow the goal, Madden has reacted to new footage which proves Rangers were unlucky.

On Instagram, he said: "The camera behind the goal shows the ball clearly striking the lower arm.

"The ball movement alone gives you the impression it’s hit the arm, which has allowed the attacker to retain possession, so there should have been a thorough check and the goal disallowed."

Whilst former referee Keith Hackett believes Shankland's goal should have stood, a new camera angle showing the incident has been analysed by Madden, and it's clearly shown that the goal should have been disallowed.

Rangers pushed for an equaliser in the second half, with another controversial decision going against them.

Rangers fans at Ibrox
Ibrox is becoming increasingly volatile. (Credit: Imago)

Derek Cornelius' disallowed goal should have stood

Rangers dominated proceedings in the second half, with Djeidi Gassama hitting the post, and Hearts having to deal with an onslaught of corners.

  • In the 67th minute, Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow failed to deal with a high ball on his goalline
  • Following a goalmouth scramble, Cornelius prodded home with Rangers thinking they had equalised
  • Referee McLean had already blown his whistle as Thelo Aasgaard was adjudged to have impeded Schwolow as he went to challenge for the ball

Hackett claims Cornelius' goal should have been given, and that Rangers fans are right to feel aggrieved with the refereeing.

Whilst the controversial decisions are no excuse for Rangers' diabolical performance, it seems that Martin is getting no luck at a time when he needs it most.

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

Ibrox News
www.ibroxnews.com