NafisaRangers’ pre-season preparations may have continued with a 2-2 draw against Johor Darul Ta’zim, but the result was quickly overshadowed by a controversial refereeing decision that left players and supporters frustrated.
Although the match was primarily about building fitness ahead of the new campaign, one incident involving new signing Djeidi Gassama has already sparked debate, with a former FIFA referee insisting Rangers were denied both a penalty and a sending-off.
The decision has reignited concerns among sections of the Ibrox support, who fear questionable officiating could once again become a major talking point during the upcoming season.
Former FIFA referee says Rangers should have had penalty
The controversial moment arrived early in Thursday’s behind-closed-doors friendly while the match remained goalless.
Gassama latched onto a pass from Findlay Curtis before driving into the penalty area, where he appeared to get goalside of his marker.
As the Rangers winger attempted to continue his run, the defender made contact and Gassama went to ground expecting the referee to point to the spot.
Instead, play was waved on.
Reviewing the incident, former FIFA referee Keith Hackett believes the officials got the decision completely wrong.
“The challenge on Gassama was careless and therefore it should have resulted in a penalty kick and also a red card,” Hackett told Ibrox News.
“If they are abiding by the same rules as in England and Scotland, referees are instructed that the Laws of the Game must be enforced and players are at risk of suspension.”
Hackett’s assessment suggests Rangers should not only have been awarded a penalty but that Johor Darul Ta’zim should also have been reduced to 10 men.
Gassama faces challenge of changing perceptions
While Hackett firmly backed Rangers’ claims on this occasion, the incident also highlights a challenge Gassama may face during the season.
The winger has previously developed a reputation for going to ground easily in certain situations, and players perceived as looking for fouls can sometimes struggle to win close decisions from officials.
That does not necessarily mean Thursday’s appeal was incorrect, but it could influence how referees interpret similar incidents in future matches.
For Rangers, however, the focus remains on ensuring they are fully prepared for the competitive campaign ahead.
McInnes will be encouraged by the continued progress shown during pre-season, even if the result ended in a 2-2 draw, with Tochi Chukwuani scoring both goals for the Light Blues.
Supporters will simply hope that any controversial refereeing moments have been confined to pre-season friendlies and that Rangers receive fair treatment once the Scottish Premiership campaign gets underway.
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