Rangers Demand Clarification Over Referee Decision
Rangers are preparing to seek clarification from the Scottish Football Association (SFA) regarding referee Nick Walsh’s decision not to send off Auston Trusty for a dangerous kick on goalkeeper Jack Butland during a heated match at Hampden Park. The incident has sparked significant controversy and frustration among the Ibrox side.
The game took a dramatic turn when Thelo Aasgaard was sent off in the 38th minute for a high lunge on Anthony Ralston. This left Rangers with 10 men, and there were immediate calls for a second red card of the afternoon when Trusty appeared to kick Butland on the head while the goalkeeper was collecting the ball. However, instead of issuing a red card, Walsh only showed a yellow card, which has led to widespread discontent within the Rangers camp.
It is reported that Rangers will now reach out to Willie Collum, the head of referees, to request an explanation for the decision. Manager Danny Rohl chose not to comment directly on the incident, but captain James Tavernier confirmed he had spoken to Walsh about the matter.
Tavernier explained that Walsh justified his decision by citing the force of the kick. However, Tavernier argued that the intent behind the action was clear. “He [Walsh] just said it’s obviously [down to] the force of the stamp,” Tavernier said. “But it’s still the intent, the intent is obviously to put a boot on his head. So, no matter if it’s hard or soft, it’s still his head.”
Despite acknowledging that Aasgaard’s red card was fair, Tavernier emphasized that the officials failed to maintain consistency throughout the match. “I felt that decision [Aasgaard red card] was fair enough. But then decisions throughout the game, I think you obviously have to carry the same approach,” he added. “Jack gets stood on the head and Dio (Mohamed Diomande) gets stood in the belly. So those have to be levelled off, I believe.”
Celtic Players’ Reactions
Meanwhile, Celtic midfielder Arne Engels described Aasgaard’s tackle on Ralston as one of the worst he has seen in professional football. Despite making contact with the ball first, Aasgaard’s studs were high, and his follow-through was reckless as he collided with Ralston.
Engels shared his thoughts on the incident: “Yeah, that was an incredible tackle, actually. It was crazy. If you go into somebody like that, that’s just crazy. I was at a good angle to see it, and it really didn’t look good. Those tackles can’t be on a football pitch. Yeah, probably one of the worst [I have seen]. I think the referee made the right decision.”
Ralston also commented on the incident, stating that the tackle was high and that he had visible cuts as proof. “First of all, it’s high. I’ve got cuts to prove it. I’ve not seen it back personally but, obviously, I felt the force as well. He’s gone in with enough force to rip my shorts. You’re running the risk (of a red card) and the boy ran the risk.”
