Rangers have released a formal statement following Sunday’s Scottish League Cup semi-final defeat to Celtic, confirming that club representatives met with the Scottish FA on Monday to address what they describe as “legitimate concerns” surrounding the consistency and application of refereeing decisions in major fixtures.
The 3–1 extra-time defeat at Hampden was shaped by several key incidents, most notably the first-half challenge from Celtic defender Auston Trusty on Jack Butland.
Despite the Rangers goalkeeper clearly having secured the ball, Trusty made forceful contact with his head. The referee issued only a yellow card following a VAR check, a decision Rangers believe was handled incorrectly.
In a strongly worded statement, the club said: “Following that meeting, we remain unsatisfied with the explanation of the referee’s decision in that incident, the application of the Laws of the Game, and the VAR review itself, which we do not believe was sufficiently robust or thorough.”
Rangers stressed that the issue being raised is not simply about the outcome of one match, but about repeated inconsistencies in high-profile fixtures.
“We recognise that refereeing decisions can impact both sides in a game, but too many important matches continue to be influenced by calls that are inconsistent and difficult to justify.”
The club also emphasised the wider consequences of these decisions, noting that they “determine results, impact fans, and affect the livelihoods of players, coaches and staff.”
Rangers confirmed that concerns have been consistently raised with the SFA over an extended period but added that they feel “not enough change” has taken place in how match officiating is being developed and overseen at the top level of Scottish football.
The statement also acknowledged the growing frustration among supporters: “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.”
The club concluded by making clear that this matter will not be allowed to fade quietly: “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 return to action this Thursday when they host Roma in the UEFA Europa League, with the added benefit of foreign officials.