Hibs manager Jack Ross believes the decision by referee John Beaton to award Rangers a penalty in last night’s Scottish Premiership clash at Easter Road is “50/50” – but confessed he’d have been claiming for it had it happened at the other end.
Easter Road star Ryan Porteous was penalised for a trip on Ryan Kent before Kemar Roofe fired the spot-kick beyond Matt Macey, handing the Gers a 1-0 win.
Hibs manager Jack Ross was ‘doubly disappointed’ with the defeat by Rangers last night (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Ross praised Porteous’s performance in the game, admitting he’d handled the “spotlight” that comes with Hibs v Rangers well and confessed that losing the game that way was “doubly disappointing”.
“I think there’s a spotlight that falls upon Ryan in this fixture but tonight his performance level was really good,” Ross said.
“There will be a spotlight on him again over the concession of the penalty, but we will look more at the strength of his performance.
“I think he’s shown tonight why he’s such a good young centre-half in this country.
“The time John took to give the penalty actually gave me encouragement because you’re thinking he’s maybe not sure.
“Ryan was adamant he pulled out and there was minimum contact. I would agree. It’s 50-50.
“I would claim for it in the opposition box. But I think it’s 50-50 and it goes against us.
“To lose the game in that manner makes it doubly disappointing.”
Despite going down 1-0, Hibs were the better side for long spells and will have plenty of positives they can take into this weekend’s game with Motherwell.
With two games in hand over the Steelmen, who sit six points ahead of Hibs in the league, a win at Easter Road on Saturday would be huge for Jack Ross’ side as they look to get back on track after their recent winless run.
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