Nick Walsh criticised over actions after Rangers penalty decision against St Mirren

Nick Walsh is facing further criticism following Rangers’ 2-0 victory over St Mirren, with fresh questions being raised about his handling of the controversial penalty incident.

The Gers secured all three points in Paisley to extend their unbeaten run and maintain the pressure on Celtic in the Scottish Premiership. Ryan Naderi opened the scoring from the penalty spot before Dan Neil’s deflected effort wrapped up the win.

However, much of the post-match discussion has centred on Walsh’s decision to award Rangers a penalty after Samuel Ramos’ challenge on James Penrice.

Despite contact being made, the decision sparked considerable debate, with St Mirren players and manager Derek McInnes left frustrated. McInnes and Penrice, however, both maintained that the referee had made the correct call.

Away from Ibrox, the decision has attracted a very different reaction, with Walsh’s conduct following the incident also coming under scrutiny.

Why Nick Walsh is facing further criticism

Following the penalty award, Ramos and several St Mirren players immediately approached Walsh to question his decision.

The referee appeared unmoved by their protests, waving the players away without offering an explanation.

However, it was his response to Ramos that particularly irritated one critic, who accused the official of showing arrogance and a lack of respect towards the St Mirren defender.

Discussing the incident, the pundit said:

“The other instances I’m talking about are where VAR is a shocker, and that’s across the board.

“Nick Walsh is in the perfect position to see what’s gone on. That is a horrendous decision and it’s compounded by VAR.

“I’ve got to say as well, Nick Walsh’s reaction to Ramos daring to speak to him – he wasn’t aggressive, he was just speaking to him – was sheer arrogance.

“Absolute contempt for a football player. That has no place for me and shows zero emotional intelligence.”

The criticism means Walsh’s performance is attracting attention beyond the original penalty controversy, with his interaction with Ramos now becoming another talking point from Rangers’ victory.