The Scottish FA has acknowledged an error regarding Livingston’s penalty appeal against Rangers, the West Lothian club has confirmed. Livingston manager David Martindale and his squad believed they should have been awarded a spot-kick at Ibrox when Tete Yengi’s goal-bound shot appeared to strike Emmanuel Fernandez’s hand. At that moment, the score was level at 1-1 after Yengi had cancelled out Fernandez’s opener.
Martindale expressed frustration after the game, and the club has since held discussions with the SFA. Chairman Calvin Ford revealed that the governing body admitted the mistake.
In an open letter to fans, Ford said:
“I share the frustration of everyone regarding the handball decision at Ibrox. Initially, the VAR team explained that the ball had struck the defender’s body before his arm. Later, an alternative reason cited the close proximity of the two players. This was a crucial moment, especially coming just after we had equalised, and we firmly believe a penalty should have been awarded, giving us a real chance to take the lead.”
Ford thanked the players, staff, and supporters, particularly those who traveled to Glasgow, and reassured fans of his commitment to the club:
“We will persevere and succeed. Your unwavering support week-in, week-out is invaluable, and I am optimistic about the club’s bright future.”
He added that discussions with the SFA have confirmed the incident as an official mistake:
“We should have been awarded a penalty. While it’s easy to dwell on anger and frustration, we must move forward. How we react on Sunday by fully supporting our team against Aberdeen matters far more to the health and success of this club.”
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