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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
Ewan Paton

Pundit makes Rangers vs Celtic 'robbed' claim after VAR controversy

There has been plenty of reaction to the first installment of Rangers versus Celtic this season.

Kyogo's strike, Rangers' disallowed goal, and the abundance of missed chances have been among the talking points.

One pundit has now chipped in that he feels Rangers were "robbed" in their 1-0 loss to the champions.

Robbie Savage reckons Michael Beale's side were harshly dealt with in regard to Kemar Roofe's first half goal, which was subsequently ruled out.

The packed out Ibrox crowd thought their team had taken the lead after Cyriel Dessers dispossessed Celtic centre back Gustaf Lagerbielke in a dangerous position.

The striker played a simple pass to his striking compatriot, who steadied himself before firing past Joe Hart.

However, VAR advised on-field official Don Robertson that Dessers had actually fouled Lagerbielke in the build-up to the goal, and so after checking the pitchside monitor, the goal was chopped off. Of course, this has proved to be a real bone of contention.

Kyogo's sensational strike prior to half time then proved to be the only goal of the game.

And Savage has ripped into the decision by the officials to disallow Roofe's goal, branding it awful.

Savage told 5 Live Sport: "Celtic played well Christopher [Sutton] but Roofe was robbed of a perfectly good goal. Get off the fence, it should have been a goal.

"That was a shocking VAR decision to be fair Chris, let's be fair. It was a terrible, terrible decision. VAR in Scotland and in England it is awful."

Sutton said: "I would've been disappointed if I was on the Rangers team, but you know what it was a subjective call. 50/50 call and bigger picture here Rob - Michael Beale - his Rangers team went out of Europe at a whimper this week.

"Spanked by their greatest rivals in their own backyard, no Celtic fans allowed. Where are Rangers heading under Michael Beale?"

Meanwhile, former Scottish referee Bobby Madden has offered an insight into why Roofe's goal was ruled out by VAR.

With screenshots of the incident, the ex-ref took to Instagram to offer his thoughts.

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