Keith Hackett believes Rangers midfielder Mohamed Diomande should have received a yellow card after a challenge described as “reckless” by the former PGMOL chairman.
Rangers were held back by Hibernian, with Philippe Clement’s team settling for a 3-3 draw at Easter Road on Sunday.
Diomande garnered praise for his midfield effort, but a late challenge on Nicky Cadden in the first half resulted in a warning, leaving Hackett astonished he wasn’t penalized once the tape was shown on Sky Sports Football.
“This challenge was reckless and warranted a yellow card,” Hackett told Ibrox News.
“The referee was in a good position to award Hibernian a free kick.”
“Diomande made a sloppy challenge and did not attempt to win the ball.
“What I’ve noticed is that on numerous instances, VAR reviews a potential red card challenge. Following a review, they find that it is not a major foul play challenge deserving of a red card.
“However, because VAR can only examine a red card offence, there is virtually always a gap where, because yellow cards are not reviewable by VAR, they fail to give a yellow card for similar actions.
“Reckless challenge.”
Rangers flaws on display again against Hibernian
Clement’s team performed admirably in the first half, with Rangers’ Hamza Igamane on fire in front of goal, but things swiftly changed for the visitors.
Hibernian came from behind twice to earn a point on January 5, demonstrating a complete lack of game management from the Gers, which has been a pattern this season.
To be honest, a lack of experience played a role again on Sunday afternoon, with Rangers looking to crumble under the pressure at Easter Road when Hibs were able to claw their way back into the game, and this needs to be addressed immediately.
Rangers will be disappointed to have only earned a point after leading 2-0.
