Rangers controversy: Hackett shares penalty verdict after re-analysing footage
Rangers were rightly not awarded a penalty during their win over Dundee United at Tannadice Park, Keith Hackett has said.
The former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA official exclusively told Football Insider that host defender Declan Gallagher did not have his arms in an unnatural position when the ball hit his hand inside the area.
Philippe Clement’s side came from a goal down to win 3-1 against the Terrors on Sunday (26 January), meaning they are now unbeaten in their last seven Scottish Premiership matches.
It was the perfect response for Rangers after the disappointment of their late defeat to Man United in the Europa League, though some feel they ought to have had the chance to make the win even bigger.
Rangers right not to get penalty at Dundee United
With an hour on the clock, the ‘Gers had already fought back from a goal down to lead the game 2-1 thanks to strikes from Mohammed Diomande and Robin Propper.
It was at that point that many of a Rangers persuasion felt they should have been given the chance to add to their goalscoring tally from the spot.
As the ball bounced inside the area, it hit the hand of Gallagher as he brought his arms down after jumping in an attempt to make a block.
Though many of the visiting contingent appealed for a penalty, no spot-kick was given, even after a VAR check, which Hackett believes was the right decision.
When asked by Football Insider if Rangers had a case for a penalty, the former referee said:
“I have seen them given, but I think I’m not going to give a penalty kick for that. I think he’s not tried to extend his arm or make the body silhouette bigger.
“He’s just turned, I think his arms are in a natural position so I actually support the referee and VAR on that particular decision. Well done to them because it’s easier sometimes to give handball, but they’ve stuck to their decision, and it’s the right one.”
Rangers would later get their third goal to secure the win thanks to an excellent finish from Cyriel Dessers.
There was though more controversy in the final moments when Diomande was sent off for the visitors following a scuffle with Dundee United defender Kevin Holt.
In other news, Ridvan Yilmaz has sent a six-word message to Rangers fans amid rumours he could leave the club.
For more Rangers and exclusive news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.