James Tavernier doubles down on Rangers derby gripes as Jota 'handball' and Morelos chalk off still have him reeling

Keystone Cops defending left the Rangers penalty area looking a bit like Nicola Sturgeon’s garden.

But James Tavernier reckons it was the officials at Parkhead who let Celtic out of jail on Saturday. The Rangers captain has often had the thankless task of fronting up after Old Firm defeats. There have been explanations, excuses and sometimes even apologies to supporters.

But it was different on Saturday. Tavernier is angry rather than sorry. The Light Blues leader was wheeled out once again to talk after defeat by the bitter rivals but his head was held high. He knew this wasn’t like the Viaplay Cup Final when Celtic did a number on his side. Rangers were well in the fight at Parkhead at the weekend and it was a clash of fine margins. The Hoops had more of a killer instinct and they managed to turn off the life support on the Ibrox clubs’ title chances.

Yet weirdly, there were still plenty of positives to suggest brighter times might be ahead. Beyond the summer, certainly, as Michael Beale will get the chance to create a new-look group with so many members of this squad on their way.

But also in the shorter term – with the Scottish Cup semi-final showdown with the neighbours just a few weeks away. If Rangers can perform like they did in periods at Parkhead, they’ll be no pushovers at the National Stadium. And rather than saying sorry, Tavernier has chosen to hang on to a cause. This time it’s injustice.

The full-back racked up an incredible 100 goals for Gers at the weekend with his double against Celtic. His sublime free- kick leveller was No.99 and his headed second – which set up a frantic finale – made it a ton. But rather than think about the personal achievement following the final whistle on Saturday, Tavernier