Rangers diehard scrambles Hotline heads as he claims Sima push is key evidence that proves NO ref conspiracy exists

Rangers eased some of the pressure on boss Michael Beale by breezing past Livingston into the last four of the League Cup.

But Celtic fans were quick on the Hotline to turn up the heat on officials after the Ibrox side’s controversial opener against the Lions. Hoops punters reckon Abdallah Sima pushed his luck – as well as Jamie Brandon – and it sparked a raft of conspiracy calls. Eddie Easson, Ballingry, said: “Once again referees step up to help Rangers. A season and a quarter with no penalties against them. Now blatant fouling on the attack. No wonder none of our referees are at major championships.” Kenny Wilson, Moffat, said: “Well the Rangers fans won’t be complaining about refereeing decisions today as that must be the most blatant push you will ever see on a football pitch. The SFA are obviously desperate to get them in the final to fill the stadium and not even trying to hide it.”

But Steve Macleod, Wokingham, said: “We can largely agree there was a case for a foul from Sima. Yet again however the criticism infers that there’s a Rangers bias. That’s nonsense, VAR got it wrong as they did in the Old Firm, to the benefit of the team that seems to be getting all this season’s penalties. Celtic’s ability to gain favour while convincing others of a baseless blue tinted bias would impress Machiavelli.”

It was a big win for Gers though and Andrew Lamb, Fraserburgh, said: “Good result for Rangers against Livingston, albeit with a wee bit of luck. I really hope the tide is turning for Beale, and that the injured guys come back into the side and make the team even stronger.”

Old Firm fans love debating their achievements and James Logan, Glasgow, said: “I’ll take no lessons on statistics from caller George Wilson. In the