Exclusive: Keith Hackett reacts to Rangers controversy after footage re-analysed
Rangers fell to a shock Scottish Cup defeat against Queen’s Park after James Tavernier missed a penalty deep into injury time at Ibrox.
The Gers captain saw his spot-kick saved by Calum Ferrie in the 97th minute after Cyriel Dessers was adjudged to have been fouled inside the box.
Former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA official Keith Hackett exclusively told Football Insider the referee was right to give the foul following a “careless” challenge by defender William Tizzard.
Rangers right to be awarded penalty in Queen’s Park defeat
Tizzard made contact with Dessers to prevent the striker from getting to the ball, with the referee’s decision backed up by VAR.
Tavernier picked the ball up and sent his strike to Ferrie’s left, but the goalkeeper got a strong hand to it to tip the effort around the post.
Queen’s Park went ahead on 69 minutes through substitute Sebastian Drozd and managed to hold on for a historic victory at Ibrox.
Hackett insisted Rangers were right to be awarded a penalty despite the protests from the Queen’s Park players.
He told Football Insider: “The referee is in a good position to see and judge a push.
“He does not hesitate to point to the penalty mark.
“Looking at the video, it does look harsh based on these types of incidents going unpunished in the English Premier League.
“The referee is able to judge the amount of force applied by the defender, whose challenge is careless.
“He will also be looking at a bent arm straightening during the pushing action.
“It’s the correct decision.”
Rangers season hanging by a thread after Scottish Cup exit
Rangers’ season is now hanging by a thread following the defeat against Queen’s Park, who sit fifth in the Scottish Championship table.
Philippe Clement’s side lost the Scottish League Cup final on penalties to Old Firm rivals Celtic in December, opening up the possibility of a trophyless season.
The Ibrox club are also 13 points behind Celtic in the Scottish Premiership, but they are into the last 16 of the Europa League after finishing eighth in the revamped league phase of the competition.
Football Insider revealed on 31 January Rangers have landed a £15million windfall following their strong European performances this season.
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