Nick Walsh slammed for Max Aarons booking in Rangers’ draw
The drama around Rangers’ 1-1 draw with St Mirren on Sunday has not only been about the result, but also about the performance of referee Nick Walsh. Rangers were already under pressure after a slow start to the season, and this match has done nothing to ease the tension. They went behind in the first half to a Jonah Ayunga strike, and although young Findlay Curtis came off the bench to grab a late equaliser, the overall display from the Gers was flat, uninspiring, and again left their fans frustrated.
But one of the biggest talking points came in the first half when Max Aarons was caught up in a clash with St Mirren’s Mark O’Hara. It looked like little more than a minor coming together, yet both players were shown yellow cards. Many people watching were stunned. Neil McCann, who was on co-commentary, blasted the call as “ridiculous,” insisting that Walsh had overreacted. Former Premier League referee Keith Hackett also weighed in, saying the decision went against the standard process referees are trained to follow. In his view, Walsh should have used a warning rather than reaching for his pocket so quickly. By showing cards for something so minor, Hackett argued, the referee set a low bar for the rest of the game and undermined his own authority.
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The decision added more pressure on Aarons, who was already struggling. He lasted just 69 minutes before being substituted, and his contribution was minimal. Statistically, he passed well with a 92% completion rate, but he offered little in defence or attack—no successful crosses, just one defensive action, and only one dribble. For a player brought in to replace James Tavernier, his performances so far have left a lot to be desired.
And that’s where the wider issue lies. Russell Martin, the Rangers boss, has yet to win a league game since taking over. His side has now dropped points in three consecutive Premiership matches, and the pressure is growing. Fans are beginning to wonder whether the new signings—including Aarons—have the quality to deliver. Meanwhile, Tavernier, who many thought was being phased out, is suddenly looking like the best option again. Every time he has been called upon from the bench, Rangers have improved, and his leadership and experience are still proving vital.
So while Walsh’s refereeing is under scrutiny, the bigger picture is that Rangers look disjointed, short of ideas, and lacking fight. Aarons is finding it tough to cope with the expectations of wearing the famous shirt, and unless things change quickly, Martin may be forced to turn back to Tavernier and rethink his plans. With tough fixtures ahead, including Europe and the Old Firm clash, the clock is ticking. Fans are restless, the pressure is mounting, and both Aarons and his manager know they cannot afford many more afternoons like this.
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