Rangers chief speaks to Willie Collum over refereeing of League Cup semi-final

Rangers Chief Seeks Clarification Over Key Refereeing Decision

Rangers chief executive Patrick Stewart contacted Scottish FA head of referees Willie Collum to request an explanation regarding a crucial call during the Premier Sports Cup semi-final, according to STV.

Match Summary

Celtic progressed to the final against St Mirren with a 3-1 victory in extra time after a match filled with controversial moments.

Controversial Incident

Rangers argued that Celtic should have had a player sent off when Auston Trusty’s boot struck goalkeeper Jack Butland’s head just before halftime, despite Butland holding the ball with both hands.

Match referee Nick Walsh ruled there was no significant force and issued a yellow card to the USA international defender.

Some Rangers players were outraged that the challenge was not punished with a red card. VAR officials supported the referee’s decision and did not intervene.

Next Steps and Expected Explanation

Patrick Stewart is seeking further details on the decision, one of multiple flashpoints during the match that Celtic ultimately won with extra-time goals from Callum McGregor and Callum Osmand.

Willie Collum is expected to address the matter publicly on his upcoming monthly VAR Review Show, anticipated to air within the next week.

Author's Summary

Rangers are demanding clarity on a referee’s controversial yellow card decision that impacted their Premier Sports Cup semi-final loss to Celtic, with an explanation from Willie Collum expected soon.

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STV News STV News — 2025-11-04

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