‘I’m sure Rangers will appeal’ Alfredo Morelos dive caution, says Sky Sports pundit Andy Walker
Morelos #Morelos
Alfredo Morelos was at the centre of attention in a fairly flat first half against Livingston.
The Colombian went down in the penalty area under a challenge from Livingston goalkeeper Max Stryjek and was booked for simulation by referee John Beaton in the 37th minute.
Replays however showed the goalkeeper’s arms DID make contact with the striker before he went down and the decision had Steven Gerrard irate and the Rangers manager was red-carded at the interval after approaching the match officials on the pitch.
There was sympathy for the cause from commentators on both television and radio watching the game.
Shelley Kerr, speaking on BBC Sportsound said: “I felt he probably could have kept control of the ball – so why would you go down?” The former Scotland boss added: “From the two angles we’ve seen – I don’t think it’s a yellow card.”
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And Sky Sports co-commentator Walker – a former striker with spells at Ayr United, Bolton Wanderers and Rangers’ rivals Celtic – said the club should appeal the caution for simulation.
He said: “Referees tell you they don’t act on anyone’s history but you do wonder if Alfredo Morelos and his previous has gone against him there. He has been booked for simulation before but on that occasion I think it was a clear penalty – and certainly not worth a yellow card.
“I’m sure Rangers will appeal it.”
Steven Gerrard’s initial appeals however earned the Rangers manager a red card after making his feelings known to Beaton on the half-time whistle.
The match remains 0-0 at the interval.
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