Michael Stewart slams ‘extremely harsh’ decision in controversial Celtic vs Rangers moment
The Old Firm derby, unsurprisingly, wasn’t short of controversy as Celtic clashed with Rangers in the Scottish Cup semi-final.
An action-packed game on Sunday (November 2) saw Rangers fans slam Youssef Chermiti after the Portuguese striker missed a gilt-edged chance.
Shortly after, it was Johnny Kenny who gave Celtic a first-half lead before Thelo Aasgaard was sent off for a high tackle on Anthony Ralston.
Martin O’Neill’s men were expected to run away with the tie due to having a man advantage, but Danny Rohl’s men were impressive in the second period and scored a deserved equaliser through a James Tavernier penalty.
Michael Stewart says James Tavernier’s penalty was ‘extremely harsh’
Rangers were awarded the spot kick when a flying Ralston blocked Djeidi Gassama’s shot, with the ball deflecting off his elbow.
Ralston’s arm was tucked by his side, and former Hearts midfielder Michael Stewart felt the decision was ‘extremely harsh’.
“It’s a great penalty – pace, power and accuracy. Kasper Schmeichel has no chance. But that penalty… he’s been penalised for tucking his arm in. It’s extremely harsh for me,” Stewart said on Premier Sports.
The Gers were perhaps fortunate to get a penalty on that occasion, but their second-half performance with 10 men warranted a slice of luck.
Heading into the game, Barry Ferguson warned Rohl over O’Neil due to his experience of managing at the highest level, but the German was spot on tactically.
Rangers can take courage from performance despite defeat
A thrilling Old Firm derby clash played out on November 2 after Chris Sutton predicted a goalless draw between Celtic and Rangers.
Whilst the visitors were wasteful and struggled to tuck their opportunities away, Rangers’ grit and determination with 10 men almost paid off.
Tavernier’s equaliser from the spot gave them a shot in extra time, but unfortunately for the visitors, Callum McGregor’s 93rd-minute finish broke their hearts.
Although it’s disappointing for Rangers to lose against their closest rivals, Rohl will take courage from how his side performed and will fancy their chances of finishing above Celtic in the league.
Rangers host Roma in the Europa League on Thursday night.