Controversy surrounded Rangers’ crucial opener against Falkirk, but newly surfaced footage appears to support the decision that allowed the goal to stand—despite furious protests from the opposition.
The incident in question came during a tense moment when Nicolas Raskin delivered a looping cross into the box. Falkirk players immediately appealed, convinced the ball had gone out of play before being knocked back across goal and eventually finished by Tochi Chukwuani.
Referee Don Robertson was alerted, and VAR official Andrew Dallas reviewed the incident closely. With no conclusive evidence to overturn the on-field decision, the goal was awarded—much to the frustration of Falkirk players and staff.
However, a reverse camera angle that was not shown during the live broadcast has since emerged, and it appears to vindicate the officials. The footage suggests that Raskin’s cross remained just inside the field of play, backing Rangers’ claims and reinforcing the VAR verdict.
Former Rangers midfielder Scott Arfield had insisted after the match that the ball never went out—and this new angle seems to support his stance. The clip has since circulated widely on social media, reigniting debate but also strengthening the case that the correct decision was made.
Despite the controversy, Falkirk manager John McGlynn refused to blame officials or VAR for the setback. Instead, he pointed the finger at his own players, criticizing their failure to properly defend the situation.
“Players are claiming for the ball, but they’ve not got a clue if it’s out or not,” McGlynn said. “We’ve got to defend it, and we didn’t. It’s bad defending.”
He added that his side had multiple opportunities to deal with the danger but failed to react, ultimately allowing Rangers to capitalize on the loose ball and take the lead.
While debate around VAR decisions continues to dominate headlines, this incident highlights the fine margins involved—and how crucial camera angles can be in shaping the final outcome.
For Rangers, the goal proved pivotal. For Falkirk, it was a costly lapse—one their manager believes had far more to do with defensive shortcomings than any officiating controversy.
