Credit: Sky Sports Football

Harri Burton

Tue 5 August 2025 18:09, UK

George Stanger had no leg to stand on after being sent off during Kilmarnock’s 2-2 draw with Livingston in the Scottish Premiership.

'Chelsea seek Tyrique George deal clauses amid permanent exit talks'	‘Frankly’ - Ex-FIFA ref slates controversial VAR call in Celtic win	'It's an act of simulation' - Ex-FIFA ref re-analyses Rangers-Motherwell footage

Killie went two goals ahead in the first half through Djenairo Daniels and David Watson, and it was smooth sailing for Stuart Kettlewell’s side until the centre-back’s dismissal after 65 minutes.

Robbie Muirhead was able to convert from the spot following the decision, with Livingston taking advantage of their extra man, scoring a late equaliser through Scott Pittman.

Despite the referee conferring with VAR at the pitchside monitor, Kris Boyd could not believe the decision, suggesting that a free-kick should have been awarded in the opposite direction due to a previous shirt pull.

This article contains exclusive comments from ex-PGMOL chief, FIFA official and former professional referee Keith Hackett.

The opening weekend of the Scottish Premiership was littered with controversial incidents, with Rangers’ John Souttar being on the end of a heavy, unpunished challenge in a 2-2 draw with Motherwell.

MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES

Kettlewell’s side will be hoping for a much better finish in the Scottish Premiership table this season, having finished ninth last term, but the draw on Saturday, 2 August, will not be a good start.

Kilmarnock will also be without Stanger following his sending-off, receiving a straight red card, and with a visit to Hibernian next on Sunday, 10 August, the decision has been explained by an experienced figure.

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former referee said: “Double jeopardy only applies when a defender makes a genuine attempt to play the ball.



Photo Credit: Getty Images

“Although the defender is in close proximity, he’s stopped a goalscoring opportunity, so a red card is the right decision.
For more news relating to Rangers, visit our sister site Rangers Latest Live.