AliousFormer PGMOL chief Keith Hackett has blasted referee Steven McLean after Rangers were denied what he believes was a clear penalty in their 1-1 draw with Motherwell at Fir Park.The controversial moment came just before half-time when Youssef Chermiti went down following a clumsy challenge from Elliot Watt — a player Rangers were reportedly monitoring during the winter transfer window.Despite the obvious contact, McLean waved play on, refusing to award a spot-kick that could have allowed Rangers to head into the break with a commanding two-goal advantage.Hackett: Referees “Turning a Blind Eye” Will Encourage More FoulsHackett didn’t hold back when analysing the incident, insisting it was a careless foul that should have resulted in a penalty.Speaking to Ibrox News, Hackett warned that officials ignoring such incidents will only make the problem worse.> “If referees are going to turn a blind eye to these challenges and make no decision, they will continue to increase,”Hackett said.“Award a penalty kick for what is clearly a careless challenge.”Hackett’s verdict adds fresh fuel to Rangers fans’ frustrations, especially as the incident came at a crucial moment when the Light Blues were pushing to extend their lead.McLean’s Controversial Rangers Record Adds to the AngerMcLean’s latest decision has reopened debate about his long-running history with Rangers — a record that has already caused major controversy in recent years.Back in 2019, he reportedly called Steven Gerrard to apologise after failing to spot a foul on James Tavernier in a draw with Hibernian, a mistake that led directly to a goal.His appointment as VAR for Rangers’ high-profile May 2024 Celtic clash was also heavily criticised, with former Rangers striker Kris Boyd calling the decision “staggering” and insisting alternative officials should have been selected.McLean has also been involved in other contentious moments, including Rangers’ defeat to Hearts earlier this season where he ruled out a goal for a foul that Hackett described as “extremely harsh.”To make matters worse, McLean allowed a Hearts goal that later drew criticism after it appeared the ball struck an arm before the finish — an error Willie Collum later admitted should have been corrected.Rangers Fans Furious After Another Major Call Goes Against ThemWith yet another big decision going against Rangers, supporters are once again questioning how McLean continues to be involved in high-pressure fixtures.And after this latest penalty controversy, many Gers fans will be hoping they don’t see his name anywhere near future Rangers matches anytime soon.
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