Nick Walsh is Officially banned from officiating 3 clubs amids Celtic vs rangers var controversy
Rangers seek explanation for key decision made in Old Firm Derby after ‘repeated inconsistencies’ from referee and VAR
The Ibrox hierarchy have raised concerns to the SFA about refereeing standards in Scotland.
Rangers were defeated 3-1 by Celtic in their League Cup semi-final clash in a match which featured several eye-opening decisions.
In the match itself, Johnny Kenny put Celtic a goal up through a header from a set piece, however this was then cancelled out by a James Tavernier penalty. As the match entered extra time, Callum McGregor scored a 25-yard screamer to regain the lead for the Hoops, before summer signing, Callum Osmand secured the victory in the 108th minute.
Rangers played the majority of the match down to 10-men when Thelo Aasgaard was sent off for a tackle on Anthony Ralston. While there appeared to be no malicious intent from the Norwegian, the danger involved in such a challenge can leave him with few complaints. However, moments after the incident, Celtic defender Auston Trusty caught Jack Butland in the head while the Rangers stopper had the ball firmly in his grasp. Despite uproar from Rangers players and fans alike, Nick Walsh decided only to caution the USA International.
We will continue to hold the Scottish FA to account’
It isn’t the first time the Gers have outlined their issues with referees, as a similar statement was published after last season’s Premier Sports Cup final, where the Light Blues feel they should’ve been awarded a penalty for a Liam Scales shirt pull on Vaclav Cerny. Rangers were eventually issued an apology from Scottish FA Head of Refereeing Operations, Willie Collum for the incident.
The statement continued: “the club has consistently raised issues as they have occurred with the Scottish FA, but we do not feel there has been enough change in how refereeing is being developed at the highest level. We understand and share the anger among our supporters, who have grown frustrated at the repeated inconsistencies in major match decisions that continue to affect the club.
“For the benefit of our supporters and the wider game in the country, we will continue to hold the Scottish FA to account and expect them to lead meaningful progress that delivers lasting improvement.”
Rangers are fuming after a contentious Old Firm Derby match, seeking explanations for some questionable decisions made by referee Nick Walsh. The match saw Rangers player Thelo Aasgaard sent off, while Celtic’s Austin Trusty escaped a red card for a challenge on Rangers goalkeeper Jack Butland ¹.
The controversy centers around two major incidents: Aasgaard’s straight red card and Trusty’s booking for headbutting Butland. Many believe Walsh was inconsistent in his decision-making, leading to widespread outrage among Rangers fans and players ¹.
The Scottish FA is under pressure to address the perceived bias and inconsistency, with calls for an independent review. Rangers are demanding answers, citing “repeated inconsistencies” from Walsh and VAR ¹.
The fallout has put refereeing standards under scrutiny, with some calling for Walsh to face disciplinary action. The incident has overshadowed the match result, with Rangers seeking clarity on the decisions that impacted the game.
