Particle.news
Download on the App Store

SFA Defends VAR Decision on Rangers Handball as Livingston Protest

Officials told the BBC the ball struck Emmanuel Fernandez’s body before his arm, with the movement deemed natural.

Overview

  • Referee Ross Hardie did not award a first‑half penalty when Tete Yengi’s shot hit Emmanuel Fernandez’s arm, and VAR lead John Beaton chose not to send him to the monitor.
  • The SFA’s guidance relayed during the match said contact came off the defender’s body first and the arm position was considered a natural action under handball criteria.
  • Livingston manager David Martindale called it a clear penalty and urged a call from Willie Collum, arguing the technology was not being used properly.
  • BBC pundits criticised the non-award, with Michael Stewart calling the VAR outcome baffling and Richard Foster saying Livingston were very unlucky not to receive a spot-kick.
  • Rangers beat Livingston 2–1 at Ibrox after Mohamed Diomande’s late goal was initially ruled offside before a VAR check awarded the winner.