Rangers found themselves at the centre of several contentious incidents during their much-needed 3–0 victory over Kilmarnock on Saturday evening.
The Ibrox side secured the win at Rugby Park on 6 December thanks to a brace from Bojan Miovski and a late finish from Mikey Moore.
But referee Kevin Clancy and his officiating team were heavily involved throughout the match, with Mohamed Diomande particularly fortunate to escape conceding a penalty.
Diomande criticised for ‘lazy’ defending
Former player Richard Foster took aim at Diomande for what he described as careless and lazy defensive work as he failed to track the run of David Watson.
Watson burst into the box off the ball, and the Ivorian midfielder appeared to pull him back, but both Clancy and VAR opted not to award a spot-kick.
Foster said:
“He just doesn’t want to track the run. David Watson thrives on making those late bursts into the box. The only explanation I can think of for it not being a penalty is that the contact might not have continued into the box. We don’t have the perfect angle, but that’s the only reason it wouldn’t be given.”
Diomande’s form under Danny Röhl questioned
With Rangers reportedly interested in signing Watson, Diomande will be under increased scrutiny. His recent red card against Braga in the Europa League adds further frustration, ruling him out of Thursday’s trip to Ferencváros.
The 24-year-old has struggled to rediscover his energetic best in midfield this season, often making rash decisions—including this incident against Kilmarnock. His goal against Livingston, where he tapped in to secure the points, was a bright moment, but those positives have been rare.
With crucial fixtures approaching over the festive period and the January transfer window fast approaching, Diomande is among the players who must raise their levels.
Right now, Rangers need their key performers to deliver more than ever.
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