Rangers were involved in many tense scenes during their much-needed 3-0 win over Kilmarnock on Saturday evening.
Bojan Miovski scored twice and Mikey Moore added a late goal to help the Ibrox side win at Rugby Park on December 6.
However, referee Kevin Clancy and his officiating team were closely involved throughout the game, and Mohamed Diomande was especially fortunate not to concede a penalty.
Diomande criticized for ‘lazy’ defending.
Former player Richard Foster chastised Diomande for his reckless and lazy defensive performance, claiming he failed to track David Watson’s run.
Watson sprinted into the box off the ball, and the Ivorian midfielder appeared to pull him back, but Clancy and VAR declined to give a penalty kick.
Foster stated, “He doesn’t want to track the run.” David Watson thrives on making late runs into the box. The only reason I can think of for it not being a penalty is that the contact may not have continued inside the box. We don’t have the ideal angle, but that’s the sole reason it won’t be delivered.”
Diomande’s form under Danny Röhl is questioned.
With Rangers allegedly interested in signing Watson, Diomande will face additional scrutiny. His recent red card against Braga in the Europa League adds to his frustration, as he will miss Thursday’s trip to Ferencváros.
This season, the 24-year-old has failed to recapture his dynamic best in midfield, making many reckless decisions, notably the incident against Kilmarnock. His goal against Livingston, which he touched in to clinch the points, was a bright spot, but such moments have been rare.
With important games coming up during the holidays and the January transfer window quickly approaching, Diomande is one of the players who needs to step up.
Rangers’ key players are under more pressure than ever to succeed.
xz
