Alious“Ally McCoist Slammed for Rangers Bias on TNT After Europa League Red Card Controversy vs Athletic Bilbao”
Rangers’ turbulent Europa League journey continued at Ibrox on Thursday night as Robin Propper’s nightmare debut season took another dive. Facing Athletic Bilbao in the first leg of the quarter-finals, the Dutch centre-back saw red just 13 minutes into the clash after a reckless tackle on Inaki Williams near the edge of the box.
Referee Istvan Kovacs initially showed only a yellow card, but after a VAR intervention, upgraded the decision to a straight red for denying a clear goalscoring opportunity. Despite the early setback, Rangers fought valiantly to secure a goalless draw, keeping their European hopes alive heading into the second leg in Spain.
However, the match wasn’t just notable for on-pitch drama—it also sparked debate off it. Ally McCoist, on co-commentary duty for TNT Sports, raised eyebrows with his reaction to Propper’s sending off, describing it as a “harsh” call. His comments quickly drew criticism online, with many pointing to a clear lack of neutrality.
Former Hibs striker Tam McManus was among those unimpressed, taking to social media to call McCoist out. He wrote: “Ally, it’s an absolute stonewall red card. If he doesn’t chop him, he’s clean through on goal. If it was Fulham v Brighton, you’d say red. You’re meant to be neutral—it’s not Rangers TV.”
While McCoist did eventually concede that the red card was technically correct by the letter of the law, his initial reaction was seen by critics as yet another example of his clear Rangers allegiance clouding objective commentary.
Propper’s dismissal only added to growing concerns around his performances since arriving at Ibrox. Brought in to replace Connor Goldson, the Dutchman was expected to provide solidity, but has instead looked shaky and unconvincing. With only eight clean sheets in 24 appearances and frequent errors under both Barry Ferguson and Philippe Clement, fans are already questioning his future at the club.
Ferguson had little choice but to start Propper, with John Souttar unavailable through suspension after picking up a yellow card in the previous round against Fenerbahce. But the defensive instability that has plagued Rangers all season once again reared its head.
Despite the controversy, and playing the final moments of the game with just nine men after Dujon Sterling’s late injury, Rangers managed to hold on. The result sets up a tantalizing second leg in Bilbao, where the Scottish side will need a disciplined and much-improved performance to advance.
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