Bobby Madden has praised Don Robertson for making a “great call” as Rangers’ appeals for a penalty against Celtic were dismissed.
Ibrox players had loudly appealed for a possible spot-kick when Youssef Chermiti’s effort struck Auston Trusty in the box during the first half of the Scottish Cup clash.
Co-commentators Neil Lennon and Alan Hutton had both initially believed it was a clear penalty from first viewing, with Trusty’s left arm extended as he slid in to block the attempt.
The Rangers players were convinced they should have been awarded a penalty, but after a VAR check the referee signalled for play to continue.
However, the pair later unanimously agreed Robertson had made the correct decision to allow the game to go on after replays showed the ball struck Trusty on his right arm.
The Celtic defender had his right arm tucked into his side, and Madden supported the decision not to penalise Trusty even if the ball had made contact with his arm.
The former top-flight referee in Scotland explained that the decision was correct as the ball struck Trusty’s right arm. However, if the ball had hit his left arm then it would have resulted in a penalty.
Wading into the debate on Instagram, Madden commented: “Great call that.
“All commentators thought penalty live.
“Had it hit the left arm it would have been a penalty as that was away from the body and would have prevented the ball going towards goal.