‘Unbelievable’ – Mulgrew and Ferguson condemn Beaton following controversial Rangers decision versus Hearts.

Criticism was directed at referee John Beaton after a contentious moment involving Rangers defender Emmanuel Fernandez during their clash with Heart of Midlothian on Monday evening.

Fernandez found himself booked despite appearing to win the ball cleanly in a challenge against Hearts forward Claudio Braga. The decision came at a crucial stage of the match at Tynecastle Park on 4 May, with Rangers trailing 2-1, and it sparked strong reactions from pundits watching the game unfold.

Former Rangers figure Barry Ferguson and ex-Celtic defender Charlie Mulgrew were both left stunned by the call. Ferguson, who had previously served as interim boss of the Glasgow side, expressed disbelief at the referee’s judgment, while Mulgrew did not hold back in labelling the decision as “mad.”

The timing of the incident only heightened the frustration. Rangers were building momentum and pushing forward in attack when the whistle halted play. That interruption not only stopped their forward movement but also shifted the rhythm of the game at a moment when they appeared to be gaining control.

With defeat looming against the Edinburgh side, Rangers’ title ambitions took a significant hit. Sitting seven points adrift of the Scottish Premiership leaders after the loss, their chances of lifting the trophy have effectively faded, leaving little margin for recovery in the closing fixtures of the campaign.

The second half ultimately proved decisive. Derek McInnes managed to outmaneuver Danny Rohl tactically after the interval, and that shift in control made the difference over the course of the match.

Speaking during the closing stages on the Go Radio Football Show, Ferguson voiced his frustration at the officiating. He pointed out that Fernandez had clearly won the ball and questioned what Beaton had seen to justify the foul and subsequent booking. For Ferguson, it was a moment that disrupted Rangers at a critical time when they were attempting to mount a comeback.

Mulgrew echoed those sentiments, going even further in his criticism. He described the challenge as exactly the type defenders are encouraged to make, suggesting it was both strong and fair. To see it penalised, in his view, was baffling and had a tangible effect on the flow of the game. He emphasised how quickly the situation changed, with Rangers moving from attack to being forced back after the whistle.

Despite the controversy, Rangers had shown promise earlier in the match. They controlled much of the first half and appeared the more dominant side heading into the break. The team’s performance during that period suggested they were capable of taking something from the game.

The opening goal came through Dujon Sterling, giving the visitors a valuable lead and reinforcing their early control. However, the dynamics shifted significantly after halftime.

A key turning point arrived with the introduction of Blair Spittal, whose presence helped alter the balance in favour of Hearts. From that moment on, Rangers struggled to maintain possession and found themselves increasingly under pressure.

On the touchline, Rohl’s reaction reflected the difficulties his side faced. The German coach appeared visibly frustrated as his players were unable to regain control or sustain attacks. Hearts, by contrast, grew into the game and capitalised on their momentum.

As the match wore on, Rangers were unable to respond effectively. The early promise they had shown faded, replaced by a lack of cohesion and control that allowed Hearts to dictate proceedings in the second half.

With only three matches remaining in the season, Rohl now faces the challenge of regrouping his squad and preparing for what lies ahead. The immediate objective may no longer be the title, but there are still important fixtures to navigate before the campaign concludes.

Attention now turns to the upcoming Old Firm clash against Celtic at Parkhead. While Rangers’ own title hopes have dimmed, they still have the opportunity to influence the outcome of the race by taking points off their rivals.

For supporters, that fixture carries significant weight. Securing a victory against Celtic would provide some consolation in an otherwise disappointing run-in and deny their rivals an easier path to the championship.

Looking beyond this season, there are clear areas that require improvement. Rohl has made a positive impact since taking over, especially considering the position Rangers were in prior to his arrival. However, expectations will inevitably rise moving forward.

Next season will likely bring increased scrutiny, with the demand for consistency and stronger performances becoming even greater. For now, though, the focus remains on finishing the current campaign on a high note and restoring some pride in the closing games.

The defeat to Hearts, coupled with the controversial refereeing decision, serves as a reminder of how fine the margins can be. Moments like Fernandez’s booking can shift momentum and alter outcomes, leaving teams to reflect on what might have been.

Ultimately, while officiating decisions will continue to be debated, Rangers must look inward as they aim to rebuild and challenge more effectively in the future.