SFA statement reveals why Livingston were denied penalty vs Rangers

David Martindale was left fuming over Livingston’s failure to be awarded a penalty against Rangers for ‘handball’

And now an SFA explanation on the Ibrox flashpoint has emerged.

Lions boss Martindale let rip post-match as his troops left Govan empty-handed after Mohamed Diomande grabbed a late winner for the hosts.

Emmanuel Fernandez had headed the home side into an early lead before Tete Yengi levelled as he finished beyond Jack Butland.

Moments later the striker was controversially denied a spot-kick after his effort appeared to strike the arm of Fernandez.

John Beaton was on VAR duties — alongside AVAR Chris Rae — and he opted against flagging up the incident to referee Ross Hardie — with the SFA then giving an explanation to BBC Sportsound that was read out on air.

SFA deliver VAR stance on Ibrox flashpoint

Commentator Paul Mitchell said: “We are getting some information coming through from VAR, just to say that the ball did actually strike the hand, but it did come off the body, and therefore it wouldn’t have been a problem.

“It was a natural movement. The lower part of the arm, as we understand. John Beaton said no penalty. I wonder if Livingston would like another little look at that.”

Speaking post-match, Martindale told the BBC “I don’t know where to go with the handball decision. It hits his arm, it’s going on target, could be a goal.

“I’d like Willie [Collum] to phone me and explain that one. It’s not his fault, but the technology is not being used properly if that’s not a penalty.

“I know if that’s at Livingston and against us, that’s a penalty against us. It’s a penalty, nobody will change my mind on that.”

Pundit Michael Stewart also delivered his verdict on the big talking point.

He said: “That’s unfathomable that VAR has looked at that and said no. His arm is outstretched. It’s on target. That’s outrageous from VAR.”

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It’s a fourth league victory on the spin for Danny Rohl as he now turns his focus to the Europa League on Thursday night.

Rangers are yet to get off the mark in that competition with four successive defeats to date as they get set to welcome Braga to Ibrox.

It’s then in-form Falkirk at home next weekend, who will arrive off the back of an impressive 3-0 win over Dundee United at Tannadice.

​​​​​​​Rohl assessment

Delivering his assessment of the match, Rangers boss Rohl said: “It was a hard-work performance and a hard-work victory.

“After the goal, we start to not concentrate enough, and the opponents go behind with a long ball – it was too easy.

“We changed small details at half-time. We are pleased to have the win and that’s the most important.

“We told the players at half-time we have to do more, invest more, need more runs without the ball.

“We will analyse the game as always and then go again.”