Former Rangers striker rages over 'identical' Motherwell red card calls as he makes Willie Collum consistency plea

Former Rangers striker Kenny Miller has been left confused by the red card calls thrown Motherwell's way in a Scottish Cup quarter-final with Hibs.

Steelman Bevis Mugabi was sent off by referee Willie Collum inside a minute for a strong tackle on Josh Doig, sparking debate during the televised match.

Hibs went on to win 2-1 at Fir Park thanks to an Elias Melkersen double, Joe Efford's goal not enough to salvage cup hopes for Graham Alexander's side.

After walking back his initial reaction to Collum's call, Miller reckons it was a big one to make so early in a crucial match.

The ex-Rangers star said on BBC commentary: "I think that is a harsh decision.

"It's not excessive force, he's not coming into it fast, he's not high. For me that's a horrendous decision from Willie Collum. So, so harsh on Mugabi.

"Is it late? Yes it is. Has he caught the player? He absolutely has. But is he reckless? I think in the early stages of the game that's a massive decision and it's going to impact the result, probably, and the outcome of this game.

"I think you need to be absolutely certain and I'm sure in Willie's eyes he is but I think it might be a little bit harsh at that stage of the game to give that as a red card.

"Do you know what? I'll retract my 'horrendous decision from Willie Collum' after seeing it again because I think different referees will see that in a different light: some might give it as a yellow, some might give it as the red.

"I just think this early in the game, we're looking forward to this game and it's changed the whole balance, the whole momentum, of how this game is going to be played out now."

Miller was then left baffled when 'Well's Jordan Roberts was booked for a similar tackle, adding: "I don't see the