4 critical Rangers vs. St. Johnstone official rulings, including a penalty let off to Hagi and a “leg-breaker” from “lucky” Dessers

Referee David Dickinson had a busy evening, despite the Light Blues’ 2-0 victory.

With a victory over St. Johnstone, Rangers maintained a five-point advantage over Celtic and Aberdeen at the Premiership summit. However, the game was littered with controversy.

Vaclav Cerny recovered from a dreadful week to score twice and defeat the visitors at Ibrox. However, the Light Blues were dealt a setback when returning playmaker Ianis Hagi was dismissed 10 minutes before the conclusion, resulting in Philippe Clement’s team playing the final minutes with ten men following VAR’s intervention. The Belgian manager consoled the Romanian international as he trudged off the field, but the hefty challenge on Benjamin Kimpioka was far from the only discussion point. The Romanian international departed the pitch in tears.

Referee David Dickinson had a hectic evening in the late kick-off in Govan to conclude the action-packed weekend. However, did he receive the significant messages directly under the Ibrox lights?Record Sport investigates.

Cyriel Dessers’s ‘draw’ in the box

Aaron Essel can be observed tugging on the jersey of the Rangers frontman as he attempts to head the ball as a cross is delivered into the box and intended for Cyriel Dessers. He then collapses to the ground; however, whistler Dickinson and the VAR team declined to intervene.

Hutton: “When you observe it from the rear, you can see that Essel is holding his top.” It is not merely a slight tug; it is a complete seize. I believe that he is an exceptionally fortunate child. I am astonished that no action was taken, as the referee has a clear view of the situation. That is an enormous danger. I believe he is extremely fortunate to have been scheduled.

Ianis Hagi was issued a red card.

Ianis Hagi returned to the Rangers first team after a lengthy absence. However, he was dismissed after only 35 minutes of play after being substituted for a crude challenge on Benjamin Kimpioka. The Romanian playmaker was initially booked by David Dickinson for the charge; however, the verdict was elevated to a straight red card with 10 minutes remaining on the clock, and he was sent to the pitchside monitor.

Rangers star Ianis Hagi is shown a red card

Cammy Bell, a former Rangers goalkeeper, stated on Sportscene, “I believe it is more clumsy than anything else.” I believe that he is overextending himself by attempting to play the ball and entering the field at a rapid tempo. However, it is an unequivocal red flag for me. The force and the location at which he captures the St. Johnstone player are visible.

Hutton: “That is a painful experience.” It may genuinely be a crippling obstacle. I am aware that he has not intended to do so, and I am aware that he does not possess that capacity; however, it is important to consider that he has been absent for an extended period. He is likely to believe that he can reach the destination, but he is only slightly off.

‘Red’ card of Adama Sidibeh

John Souttar was the victim of the St Johnstone player’s attack upon his return from a four-game suspension. Some individuals online believed that he should have been issued his marching orders, similar to Hagi. However, the individual in the midst withheld his cards, and VAR declined to intervene.

Adama Sidibeh of St Johnstone tackles Rangers’ man John Souttar

Michael Stewart, who provided commentary for Premier Sports, believed that a yellow card was the appropriate decision, stating, “I am uncertain as to his intentions.” Every day of the week, that constitutes a yellow card. This is truly remarkable. He is unable to retrieve the ball, and even if he does, he will always pass straight through the Rangers player.

‘Offside’ goal by Nicky Clark

Nicky Clark believed that he had provided the visitors with a late reprieve when the Rangers were reduced to ten players. The St Johnstone striker outpaced Jack Butland by latching onto a long pass forward by Matt Smith. However, he was adjudged to have narrowly pipped Rangers’ final man, Robin Propper.

St Johnstone’s Nicky Clark is flagged offside against Rangers

The striker was initially flagged offside before VAR supported the on-field team. Niall McGinn, a former Celtic and Aberdeen player, acknowledged on Sportscene that the goal was offside.

In addition, Bell stated, “It is exceedingly stringent.” In these instances, it is imperative to capitalize on the opportunities that arise at Ibrox. It appears that Nicky Clark was simply offside, but that was an extremely close decision.

‘Would they?’ – Sky Sports pundit launches £4 million Lennon Miller to Rangers claim

Kris Boyd believes Rangers are hesitant to invest money on Scottish players such as Lennon Miller and Lawrence Shankland.

The former Ibrox striker said on Sky Sports before of Ross County’s match against Celtic on October 6 that the Light Blues would not spend millions on Miller if they were willing to do it for Mohamed Diomande from Nordsjaelland.

The commentator decried the fact that the first priority is to recruit from outside and was unable to understand why proven possibilities such as Lawrence Shankland were not recruited.

Boyd remarked, “I’m looking at Lennon Miller, and I’ll use Rangers as an example. Would they spend the same £4 million on Lennon Miller as they did on Diamonde? No. But he was in our league.”

Eilidh Barbour said, “Lawrence Shankland’s the name that was linked with Rangers and never happened.”

“There you go,” Boyd said. “He has already shown his ability to score goals in our league. But you’d go out and spend money on someone from abroad. I’m not sure why we do it, but it’s the truth.

Rangers connected with Motherwell and Hearts talents.

Miller, 18, is looking like a rising star as his performances under Stuart Kettlewell improve.

The Light Blues reportedly scouted him throughout preseason [Football Scotland, 10 July], and Ibrox News analyst Derek Ferguson strongly supports a deal for the player.

Rangers may have lost out on signing him, as his price tag is expected to rise more if he maintains his present performance. Ferguson is perplexed as to why no move was made earlier, amid speculation that a Celtic deal was secretly completed (Open Goal, September 26).

Shankland has been a topic of conjecture for a year, with Philippe Clement in need of a striker. However, two transfer windows have gone with no effort to recruit him, despite the road being open throughout the summer (Daily Record, 29 July).

Rangers are reportedly hesitant to invest money on players such as Lennon Miller.

🗣️ “There’s a reluctance to go and spend proper money on players from other teams [in Scotland].”

Kris Boyd & James McFadden on the up-and-coming Scottish players ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/jnnTJDE9kJ

— Sky Sports Scotland (@ScotlandSky) October 6, 2024

The Jambos captain’s drop in scoring form, along with the rise of Hamza Igamane, may have made the choice not to sign him more acceptable at the moment, but if he regains form, it may be called into question.

Football is a game of variables, especially when it comes to recruiting players, so spending £4.3 million on Diomande [Sky Sports, 26 January] and committing roughly comparable to complete Oscar Cortes’ transfer [Daily Record, 1 June] might prove to be masterstrokes in the long term.

Furthermore, Rangers’ acquisition of Connor Barron after his departure from Aberdeen, as well as the addition of John Souttar from Hearts two years ago, demonstrate that they have not completely neglected the Scottish Premiership.

However, as the team continues to underachieve, there is a sense that they are overcomplicating the matter when the solution may be there in front of them.

Graeme Souness fires back at Simon Jordan’s inquiry about Newcastle United with an immediate one-liner about Rangers

A Newcastle United inquiry has resulted in a Rangers response.

After challenging a Newcastle United query, Graeme Souness has resolved any disagreement regarding the team that he believes is the most well-supported in the country.

In 1986, the pundit assumed the role of Rangers’ player-manager and has since become a beloved figure among the Ibrox faithful. During his five-year tenure in Glasgow, he was awarded five trophies. He also served as the manager of Newcastle United from 2004 to 2006, which proved to be his final managerial position. Additionally, he served as the manager of Liverpool, Galatasaray, Southampton, Torino, Benfica, and Blackburn Rovers.

Simon Jordan, the presenter of the Up Front podcast, posed a Newcastle-related query to Souness, and the response was Rangers-themed. Jordan inquired, “Do you believe that Newcastle United’s supporters are the best in the country?” Souness responded with an immediate “no,” and when Jordan inquired as to why, Souness replied, “Glasgow Rangers.”

Souness has not been hesitant to express his admiration for the club where he was a member until 1991. However, following a 3-0 loss to Celtic earlier this season, which resulted in heated fan confrontations with Rangers players, Souness cautioned that the supporters were merely aiding Celtic.

Last month, he stated to talkSPORT, “I have been employed in Glasgow for five years.” I am aware of its operation. If you lose an Old Firm encounter, then everything is amiss. Right now, I would implore the Rangers supporters who arrived at Ibrox and were critical of their manager and team to take a long breath and relax.

“That is advantageous to Celtic exclusively.” Get behind your football club and your manager.”

Jack Butland extols the virtues of two Rangers comrades who are “brilliant” following their departure from Ibrox

Jack Butland has praised Robin Propper and John Souttar as “brilliant” for their contributions to the Rangers this season.

The Gers experienced a sluggish start to the 2024/25 season, as they were unable to secure any points against Hearts on the opening day of the Scottish Premiership. Additionally, they suffered a humiliating 3-0 loss to their arch-rivals, Celtic, in the Old Firm.

Nevertheless, Philippe Clement’s team has demonstrated some improvement since the Old Firm defeat and are currently on a four-game winning sequence in all competitions.

In an interview with The Scottish Sun on October 2, Butland praised his compatriots and noted that they have stepped in to replace the void created by Conor Goldson’s £1 million departure from the team this summer.

“It has been significant; I believe there have been six clean sheets in the past seven,” he stated. “I am optimistic that we will continue to do so, as it provides us with a genuine platform from which to operate.”

“Those games become exceedingly challenging if we forfeit our defensive stability.”

“That is a quality that we have long cherished and must maintain, and it will undoubtedly commence tomorrow.”

“Both Robin and John have demonstrated exceptional intelligence.” I believe that Robin is an experienced defender, which is necessary for him to be considered for a position.

“He has participated in numerous prestigious clubs and at a high level.”He has assumed responsibility, and I believe that we have yet to witness his full potential. I anticipate that there is even more to come.

“Connor’s departure has enabled John to play on his preferred side, but I believe he performed exceptionally well on the left side last year.”

Lyon will be the opponent of Rangers in the Europa League.

The Gers’ Europa League campaign presumably began much more positively than anticipated.

In the inaugural match of the Europa League, Clement’s team defeated Malmo, a Swedish team, 2-0 in an away game. This victory demonstrated the potential of the team, provided that each player performed to the best of their ability.

In the summer, Rangers underwent a significant transformation, with the arrival of players such as Propper, who cost £2.7 million, to strengthen the club’s defensive line. It appears that he has succeeded in this endeavor [Daily Record, 31 July].

Although the Dutchman has been criticized by commentators such as Michael Stewart for his performances at certain moments in the season, his overall impact has been positive.

Rangers defender Robin Propper (Credit: Imago)

In a match that Cyriel Dessers characterized as a “good test” for Rangers, the Gers will play Lyon at Ibrox in their next European match.

It appears that a positive game for both sets of fans and a genuine opportunity for Rangers to capitalize on their home advantage may be in the offing, provided that Clement’s team maintains their performance levels and continues to play to their strengths.

Gers should keep a watch on this talented player who is netting devastating doubles instead of Miller

Rangers have reassured their supporters that they are monitoring the transfer market for the burgeoning talents in the Scottish Premiership.

In recent seasons, the Ibrox club has neglected to develop indigenous talents like Lewis Ferguson and Josh Doig, allowing Serie A clubs to swoop in.

Nils Koppen, Rangers’ director of recruitment, presented a 14-point strategy to enhance the club’s recruitment operations, with a primary emphasis on local talent.

Lennon Miller, the Motherwell youth who achieved a Premiership double over the weekend, has garnered an abundance of attention.

However, there is another talented midfielder who is also making a name for himself in the Scottish Premiership, and he also scored two goals over the weekend.

Photo by MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images

Astonishing Killie double is secured by David Watson.

While Lennon Miller has been making headlines at Motherwell, David Watson, a midfielder for Kilmarnock, has been conducting business discreetly at Rugby Park.

The 19-year-old midfielder made a significant impact in the Scottish Premiership last season, scoring five goals in the top division as Kilmarnock finished fourth in the table.

This season has not been as successful for Derek McInnes’ team, as they currently sit in 11th place in the table. The situation could have been even more dire if Watson had not been able to come off the substitute this weekend.

The Scotland U21 sensation entered the game at halftime against Dundee United and scored within two minutes to level the score for Killie against the Arabs.

The quality of the goal was also exceptional; Watson launched a spectacular overhead kick into the top corner to initiate a revival against Dundee United.

Ten minutes later, Watson scored his second goal by meeting a low cross-shot into the box and guiding the ball into the United net.

Although Kilmarnock ultimately conceded a 3-1 lead and relinquished two points at home to Jim Goodwin’s team, Watson’s performance will undoubtedly garner attention.

Rangers are considering a transfer to the Premiership.

If Rangers are committed to acquiring the most exceptional young Scottish talent, it is evident that David Watson will be included in the recruitment team’s discussions.

Rangers must monitor the advancement of these rising talents in Scotland, as a goalscoring midfielder who is already making a significant impact on the division.

David Watson and Lennon Miller are the two rising names who are currently making the most noise, and we anticipate that there will be connections to Rangers in the coming weeks and months.

Rangers have already achieved some success with the acquisition of Aberdeen midfielder Connor Barron, who has established himself as a critical figure in the center of the field at Ibrox.

Ross McCausland confesses to his chaotic Malmo moment as a Rangers hero perceives “light at the end of the tunnel”

During an outstanding Europa League performance in Sweden, the winger scored a decisive second goal.

Ross McCausland acknowledges that he became engrossed in his Malmo moment.

However, he is certain that Rangers will not be disappointed as they prepare to run out in front of a full house at Ibrox for the first time this season. On Thursday evening, the Eleda Stadion witnessed an impressive 2-0 victory at the hands of the Northern Irish youth’s clinical strike. The Light Blues broke their Swedish curse to commence their Europa League campaign with a bang. The 1500-strong band of traveling supporters erupted with delight as the goal ignited chaotic scenes in the away end.

However, McCausland acknowledged that he was left perplexed as he endeavored to determine the precise location from which he should dash in order to participate in the joyous celebrations. Philippe Clement’s squad is now in full gear as they strive to continue their success, having secured three consecutive victories since their Old Firm defeat earlier this month. McCausland stated, “It took me a minute to comprehend the location of the fans when I scored, which required me to turn around.”

“It’s almost as though you experience a brief period of unconsciousness when you score in a game of this magnitude.” However, it was evident that I was thrilled to have the opportunity to make a contribution. The lads performed exceptionally well, and we were well-deserved.

“We were aware that we needed to improve after the Celtic game.” It was a challenging circumstance, and the supporters anticipated significantly more from us. Consequently, we are pleased to have met their expectations.

“The most accurate way to describe it is patience, as it is important to avoid becoming too high or too low.” With a new group and a significant number of new participants in the facility, it will require some time for us to establish a cohesive unit.

“You can observe that now through our performances.” Individuals appear to be more at ease with one another and other individuals. Therefore, it appears to be in fine condition.

Things are not only improving in the park after a summer of melancholy. There is a sense of relief that Glasgow City Council safety assessors have approved the renovation of the Copland Road end, allowing Gers chiefs to reopen the doors and greet a full house for today’s match against Hibs.

“It will be truly remarkable to witness everyone in attendance, eager and enthusiastic,” stated McCausland. “The contrast between being at Hampden and being at home was significant during the match against Dundee last week.”

“Our return to Ibrox is likely to be one of the most significant events of the season.” It is evident that we have previously attended Hampden for cup events, and the atmosphere is consistently positive.

“However, the league games are challenging, particularly due to the travel involved for the fans.” I comprehend that; therefore, my return to Ibrox will be significant.

Clement’s team will require every ounce of support from their home fans as they endeavor to reestablish their legs in action, less than 72 hours after their defeat to Malmo. However, McCausland anticipates that his team will quickly establish a rhythm amidst the frantic schedule.

The 21-year-old, whose team will return to Euro action on Thursday night when they host Lyon at home, stated, “That’s the joy of being a footballer at a club like Rangers.” There are numerous instances throughout the season during which this will occur.

“You may only have one day to recuperate.” However, this is an inherent aspect of the game, and we excelled in this area last year. It is imperative that we capitalize on the momentum generated by our recent triumph in Malmo and concentrate on our forthcoming match.

Prior to boarding the aircraft, Clement’s itinerary for southern Sweden was considerably altered. It was already problematic to be without the prohibited Brazilian Jefte and the crocked duo of Ridvan Yilmaz and Oscar Cortes.

However, the anguish of losing striker Hamza Igamane due to a visa mishap was one that the large Belgian could have done without. However, the Allsvenskan champions would have been unaware that Gers were down to their skeletal bones as they outperformed them.

McCausland stated, “I believe it is evident that the players who were absent on Thursday would have contributed to the quality of our team.” However, as evidenced by the players’ arrivals, they are beginning to have an impact on the team.

“Our performance without the injured boys was commendable; however, their return will enhance the group’s quality.” I can observe the squad’s effectiveness increasing with each training session. Players are emerging from their shells and forming a cohesive unit.

“That is consistently the case when new players enter the organization; it requires time for them to adjust.” However, you can now begin to perceive the light at the end of the tunnel.

On Thursday, McCausland outperformed one of the new recruits. When he was introduced with 20 minutes remaining, he replaced Czech international Vaclav Cerny. He promptly earned praise for scoring the goal that defeated Malmo.

However, McCausland stated, “I have a positive rapport with Vaclav.” He has competed at the highest level, which allows me to incorporate a wealth of experience into my own game.

“We have a slightly different playing style because he is left-footed and I am right-footed.” However, he consistently communicates with me in a positive manner, reminding me to be prepared and other such matters. Therefore, it is advantageous to have a role model.

“I am obviously stupid,” declared Rydstrom, the irate manager of Malmo, in the aftermath of the Rangers’ collapse

In a peculiar post-Rangers collapse statement, Malmo supervisor Henrik Rydstrom expressed his fury by stating, “I’m obviously stupid.”

In the wake of the 2-0 Europa League defeat to Rangers, the manager issued the statement.

The Malmo manager was questioned about his pre-match comments concerning a social media message directed at Rangers prior to the match, and he responded with frustration.

Rydstrom fumed after his team’s collapse, despite having previously expressed amusement in a social media post that referenced Rangers’ participation in the third division and their appearance in the Europa League final after confronting Malmo on separate occasions.

Rydstrom had also indicated in his pre-match press conference that the social media message was not inherently flawed, as he stated in reference to previous outcomes, “It will likely happen again.”

“I haven’t seen the video but if I know our media department, it’s done with a lot of love, and I think we need that in football,” according to him.

“I believe it’s a good one, and it’s never a bad thing to remind the opponent that this happened before… and it will probably happen again.”

Upon being questioned about his pre-match remarks, he responded, “You may inquire as to whether I am a naive head coach.” Indeed. It is evident that I am a moron.

He then proceeded to elaborate on Gabriel Busanello’s error prior to the initial goal, stating, “S*** happens.” The fact that we are playing backwards is symptomatic.

“This is an issue that has persisted for an extended period.” I have endeavored to convince my players that we do not pass the ball rearward to our goalkeeper.

“Our playmakers are not our goalkeepers.” Rather than assuming the responsibility of playing forward, we engaged in lateral passes and passes toward the goal that I am unable to comprehend.

As financial difficulties worsen, Rangers Interim Chairman Calls for Unity

Rangers are at a critical juncture as their on-field and financial struggles worsen.

Rangers, a successful and historically rich club, is at a turning point. John Gilligan, the interim chairman, recently gave a media briefing and provided updates on the situation at Ibrox. Following the health-related retirement of John Bennett from the Rangers, Gilligan assumed the position of chairman. Gilligan has been a lifetime follower of the team and a major investor. In addition to discussing a change in leadership, he called for unity at his public appearance, especially in reaction to public criticism from previous chairman Dave King.

Usually a man behind the scenes, Gilligan felt pressured to speak out as the club came under increasing criticism. With no permanent chief executive in place and concerns about the Rangers’ ability to compete both on and off the field, the team’s status is far from solid. King, the club’s largest stakeholder, has been outspoken about Rangers’ alleged predicament, which is adding to the unrest.

The Dominance of Celtic and Financial Disparity

There is no denying the disparity in wealth between Celtic and Rangers. In answer to a question from the BBC on this disparity, Gilligan was tactful, saying, “Sometimes we are ahead, sometimes Celtic are ahead.” However, the truth is that Celtic has won 12 of the previous 13 Premiership championships, dominating Scottish football for more than ten years. Their financial standing simply serves to solidify their dominance of the domestic scene. The possibility that Celtic may be able to outspend Rangers is a big worry, especially with an estimated £77 million in the bank and more Champions League money on the horizon.

Rangers still need sporadic cash infusions from encouraging directors, while Celtic are enjoying unprecedented financial success. Reminding everyone that King is not willing to commit that money personally, despite his public remarks, Gilligan rejected King’s claim that £50 million is required to close the gap. In response to his erstwhile ally’s criticism, Gilligan said, “Dave is talking about fresh investment but he doesn’t want to invest.”

Challenges to Leadership and Internal Discord

The status of the club’s leadership is still unknown. A new chief executive has not yet been announced, and Gilligan is simply acting in an acting role. However, rather than offering specific answers for the Rangers’ future, his press conference seemed to be more concerned with resolving the issues with King.

King continues to express his opinions in the media as the club’s largest stakeholder. Gilligan claims that he has not privately communicated his concerns to the present board, which has fueled the public debate. Gilligan begged King to “behave like a proper shareholder” and asked him to “please take it under the radar.”

The new board is looking for stability without the prior chairman’s influence, and Gilligan made it plain that there is no desire for King to take back the leadership. But the club will have a difficult time solving its financial and athletic problems in the absence of a cohesive leadership.

Requirement for Outside Investment

Can Rangers get big outside funding? That’s one of the team’s most important issues. Gilligan said that there have been inquiries from a number of international sources, but emphasized that the proper conditions must be met for any agreement to proceed. “We want multiple owners for the club,” he said, alluding to previous ownership disputes with Craig Whyte and David Murray.

However, Rangers will find it difficult to match Celtic’s financial might until they get a significant infusion of cash. The club’s present approach, which entails circumspect player transactions and irregular director investment, doesn’t appear to be strong enough to oppose Celtic’s hegemony or have a significant effect in Europe.

Our Opinion: EPL Index Evaluation

It’s simple to feel sympathy for Gilligan’s situation. He is a devoted follower who has taken on a challenging task in an attempt to stabilize the ship during a turbulent period. Still, it’s impossible to deny that the club is in a dangerous scenario. Supporters demand an explanation of the leadership structure and, most all, a clear plan for bridging the gap with Celtic.

Supporters feel that the board is more concerned with putting out fires than with long-term planning. Gilligan’s appeal for harmony is vital, but supporters want to see real results. The current dispute with Dave King is an unwanted diversion that might further destabilize the organization if a swift solution isn’t found. Rangers must concentrate on creating a viable model for success, but it’s unclear how that can be done without a large investment.