Chris Sutton has reacted to a controversial incident as Rangers took on Celtic at Ibrox in the SPFL on Sunday.
Gers took the lead through Cyriel Dessers and went into the break with a 1-0 lead.
However, Adam Idah equalised for the visitors and the game ended 1-1.
Sutton admits Celtic were ‘Lucky’ early in the Old Firm derby
Anthony Rolston started the game for Celtic and was involved in a controversial incident five minutes into the game.
There was no reason to dive into a challenge that early in the game and he was nowhere close to the ball either.
Looking at it from different angles, he had very little intention of winning the tackle and his main intention was to take out the man.
| Result | Competition | Date | Venue |
| Celtic 3-0 Rangers | Scottish Premiership | 1 September | Celtic Park |
| Rangers 3-3 Celtic AET (Celtic win 8-7 on penalties) | Premier Sports Cup | 15 December | Hampden Park |
| Rangers 3-0 Celtic | Scottish Premiership | 2 January | Ibrox |
| Celtic 2-3 Rangers | Scottish Premiership | 16 March | Celtic Park |
| Rangers 1-1 Celtic | Scottish Premiership | 4 May | Ibrox |
Surprisingly, the referee did not give the Scottish right-back a yellow card for the incident.
Sutton, who’s ever so biased against Rangers, was also surprised that the 26-year-old wasn’t cautioned for the foul.
He told Sky Sports: “This game is never short of challenges. Ralston dives in with one and he’s nowhere near the ball. He’s lucky to avoid an early caution.”
Rangers performed decently despite a few questionable calls
The Old Firm derby saw Gers deliver a commendable performance against Celtic, marked by early dominance and a Dessers goal, despite contentious officiating decisions that stirred debate.
A disallowed Gers goal sparked frustration, with questionable calls on fouls and offside rulings raising eyebrows among the Ibrox faithful.
These decisions disrupted Rangers’ momentum, yet their resilience shone through, maintaining pressure and creating chances in a spirited first half.
Ferguson’s side showed tactical discipline and attacking intent, outplaying Celtic for significant stretches, which highlighted their potential under his interim leadership.
While Jefte’s defensive errors drew criticism, the overall display was a positive step, with most players executing Ferguson’s plan effectively.
The officiating inconsistencies underscore the need for improved refereeing in high-stakes matches, but Rangers’ ability to compete despite these challenges bodes well. With summer reinforcements, particularly in defence, Rangers can build on this performance to mount a stronger challenge next season.
