Referee criticised for Fernandez booking in Rangers defeat
Former Rangers captain Barry Ferguson and ex-Celtic defender Charlie Mulgrew have criticised referee John Beaton for booking Emmanuel Fernandez during Rangers’ 2-1 loss to Hearts. The controversial yellow card occurred late in the match, with many commentators agreeing that Fernandez made a clean tackle. Both pundits expressed frustration over the decision, suggesting it shifted the game's momentum. Fernandez has been a standout player for Rangers this season, earning several accolades.
Match highlights
- Emmanuel Fernandez was booked after a tackle on Hearts striker Claudio Braga, despite widespread agreement that the challenge was fair.
- Barry Ferguson and Charlie Mulgrew publicly criticised referee John Beaton for the decision.
- The booking happened while Rangers were chasing the game, and pundits believe it affected the momentum.
- Rangers initially led through Dujon Sterling, but Hearts came back with goals from Stephen Kingsley and Lawrence Shankland.
- Fernandez has received recognition this season, including a senior Nigeria call-up, a spot in the PFA Scotland Team of the Year, and Rangers’ Men’s Player of the Year award.
