A fresh wave of controversy has engulfed the Scottish Premiership after Hibernian’s 2-0 victory over Rangers at Easter Road, with widespread criticism aimed at the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system. The incident at the heart of the debate involves Martin Boyle’s 69th-minute goal, which was allowed to stand despite vocal protests from fans and Rangers players claiming it was offside.
The Controversial Goal
Hibernian were already leading 1-0 when Boyle latched onto a through ball and slotted it past Rangers goalkeeper Jack Butland to double the hosts’ lead. However, as Boyle celebrated, fans and players from the opposing side raised their hands, insisting that he had strayed offside in the build-up. On-field officials immediately referred the incident to VAR for review.
Despite apparent concerns, VAR ruled in favour of the goal, determining that Boyle had been in an onside position when the pass was made. The decision left Rangers supporters furious and bewildered, with many taking to social media to voice their discontent and call for changes to how VAR is implemented in the Scottish game.
Fan Outrage and Unified Calls for Change
Fans from both Rangers and across the Scottish football community have expressed growing frustration with the inconsistency and transparency of VAR decisions. Online forums and social media platforms were flooded with posts questioning the accuracy of the decision and the lack of visual evidence provided during the broadcast.
Many supporters argue that the current use of VAR lacks clarity and undermines the integrity of matches, especially when decisions appear borderline or are not supported with clear visuals. The most common sentiment shared among fans was the urgent need for reform — particularly in how decisions are communicated to those in the stadium and watching from home.
SPFL Releases Official Statement
In response to the mounting criticism, the Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL) released a statement on Sunday afternoon:
“We are aware of the concerns raised following the VAR decision during the Hibernian vs Rangers match. The VAR protocol was followed correctly, and the decision was made based on available camera angles and calibrated lines provided during the match review. However, we acknowledge the need for continued improvements in the communication and transparency of such decisions and are committed to working with our clubs, officials, and VAR operators to ensure the highest standards are upheld.”
While the SPFL maintains that the decision was made correctly within the current framework, the governing body’s acknowledgment of fan frustration suggests that internal reviews may be underway to improve how the system is applied moving forward.
Manager and Player Reactions
Rangers manager Philippe Clement refrained from openly criticizing the officials in his post-match interview but hinted at discontent with the process.
“We trust the officials to make the right calls, but of course, it’s difficult when key moments go against you, especially when clarity is lacking. We’ll review it ourselves and move forward.”
Meanwhile, Hibernian manager Nick Montgomery praised his side’s performance and emphasized the importance of the goal in securing the win, steering clear of the VAR debate.
Looking Ahead
This latest controversy adds to an already long list of contentious VAR moments in Scottish football, intensifying the calls for greater transparency, investment in better technology, and perhaps a revision of the system altogether.
For now, Hibernian’s win stands — a significant result that could impact the title race and top-six standings. But for many fans, the bigger issue isn’t the scoreline — it’s the trust in a system that was introduced to bring fairness and accuracy but continues to divide opinion.
The SPFL now faces growing pressure to act decisively and ensure VAR becomes a tool that enhances the game rather than detracts from it.
