Former English Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher has backed Nick Walsh's decision to award Rangers a penalty in their weekend win over St Mirren.
With the score at 0-0 on Saturday, St Mirren were penalised when midfielder Samuel Ramos was judged to have fouled Rangers full-back James Penrice in the area. Walsh pointed to the spot, and his decision was confirmed by VAR official Greig Aitken.
Gallagher Backs Walsh's Decision
Speaking on Sky Sports' Ref Watch segment, Gallagher, who officiated in England's top flight between 1992 and 2007, had no issue with the call, insisting Ramos clearly didn't win the ball from Penrice.
He said: "You couldn't have a better view than what the referee had. The defender definitely doesn't get the ball. Look where the referee is, he's got the perfect view. The Rangers player has played the ball and he (Ramos) doesn't. It's very, very hard to go against the referee in that situation, if at all possible."
Penalty and Aftermath
Czech Republic international Ryan Naderi converted the spot kick, and the visitors secured the points in the second half with a deflected strike from summer signing Dan Neil.
St Mirren boss Craig McLeish was displeased about the penalty but chose his words carefully when asked about it after the game. Former SFA grade one referees Des Roache and Steve Conroy also disagreed with the call and expected VAR to overturn it.
Context and Next Steps
Rangers remain four points adrift of Premiership leaders Celtic with a game in hand going into the international break. They also have a Premier Sports Cup final against Hibs to look forward to on December 13.
