Rangers striker Ryan Naderi was the subject of a controversial refereeing decision during a commanding 3-0 Premier Sports Cup quarter-final victory over Celtic at Ibrox Stadium.
Former SFA official Bobby Madden has questioned referee Nick Walsh after Celtic midfielder Mika Baur avoided a booking for a heavy second-half challenge.
The Daily Record quotes Madden confirming: “The first thing to be upset about is that the free-kick went to Celtic.”
Madden Explains VAR Process
Baur caught the Rangers attacker high on the shin after 64 minutes, but Walsh penalised Naderi. Madden explained that while the tackle was reckless, it lacked malice.
He stated: “You are saying, yes, we have seen red card challenges for contact that high up the leg, but we always need to consider the criteria for serious foul play – speed, intensity, force, malice and endangering the safety of an opponent.”
Madden added: “I think you can see the way that Baur enters the challenge there is an attempt to play the ball. Because Naderi slips the ball is then behind his leg, so it doesn’t tick the boxes at all.”
McInnes Enjoys Derby Dominance
The incident failed to derail Derek McInnes. The dominant display exploited defensive disarray as Rangers controlled the tie, while the manager seamlessly solved his attacking absences to progress.
Former goalkeeper Pat Bonner questioned the visitors following the comprehensive defeat. Celtic Shorts quotes Bonner stating: “I was shocked at how well Rangers played but I was utterly shocked by how bad Celtic were.”
Rangers return to Scottish Premiership action against Celtic this Sunday.
