AliousFormer FIFA Ref Weighs In as VAR Clears Cleall-Harding Over Dessers Penalty Call
In the aftermath of Rangers’ 3-1 victory over Dundee United at Ibrox, former FIFA referee and ex-PGMOL chief Keith Hackett has backed the decision not to award a first-half penalty following a contentious moment involving Cyriel Dessers.
The incident unfolded midway through the opening 45 minutes when Dessers, who had just equalised for the hosts, was brought to ground by Dundee United defender Samuel Cleall-Harding inside the box. The challenge prompted a brief VAR review after referee Calum Scott was advised to delay the restart. Ultimately, no on-field review was called, and the match continued without a penalty awarded—an outcome Hackett fully supports.
Speaking exclusively to *Football Insider*, Hackett stated:
> “The challenge certainly warranted a second look by VAR, and I support the decision not to award a penalty. Football is inherently a contact sport, and in my view, there was nothing in that tackle to justify a spot kick. It was the correct decision.”
Dessers was central to Rangers’ performance on the night, scoring twice, including a successful penalty later in the game. His brace helped the Gers overturn an early deficit after Cleall-Harding had given the visitors a surprise lead with his first professional goal.
Despite some brief tension surrounding the penalty incident, Hackett’s comments offer clarity to what might have otherwise stirred controversy. With one game left in the season—an away trip to Hibernian—interim boss Barry Ferguson will be hoping such solid performances help strengthen his case for a permanent managerial appointment.
For now, the debate surrounding Dessers’ fall has been put to rest by the authority of one of the game’s most respected former referees.
Alious
