Rangers VAR Audio Fails the Smell Test, and Nick Walsh Ignores What Tech’s Meant to Be About

No one expected perfection when VAR made its debut in Scottish football, but the extent of the current controversies suggests even seasoned cynics underestimated the chaos it would bring.

Instead of providing clarity, the system has become a breeding ground for disputes, with recent events surrounding Rangers midfielder Mohamed Diomande’s red card serving as the latest flashpoint.

The debacle began when Nick Walsh issued Diomande a red card, claiming the player aimed a slap at Dundee United defender Kevin Holt. However, audio released by Willie Collum revealed that VAR officials Don Robertson and his assistant flagged the decision as incorrect. Despite being told there was no evidence of excessive force or brutality and that the incident didn’t tick any disciplinary boxes, Walsh ignored the advice and upheld his decision.

Collum’s subsequent VAR review dismantled Walsh’s call, forcing him to advise officials that Diomande was wrongly punished. The entire episode not only undermined trust in VAR but also fueled calls for the system’s removal from the Scottish Premiership.

Collum’s Transparency Raises Questions

Collum’s open approach to addressing VAR controversies has been welcomed, but it underscores the persistent errors among officials. Despite its theoretical potential to improve decision-making, VAR’s practical misuse has led to a growing backlash, with some calling for the system to be scrapped. Norwegian clubs recently announced their intent to ditch VAR, and Sweden never implemented it. Calls for Scottish football to follow suit are growing louder.

A Flawed but Necessary System

Despite its flaws, VAR still gets more decisions right than wrong. Removing the technology would likely increase human errors, taking the game backward. Scottish football must focus on refining its use rather than abandoning it altogether. While officials can’t always be trusted to wield it properly, the thought of relying solely on their eyes is a troubling prospect that makes VAR, warts and all, a necessity.

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