David Gray Defends Hibs' Penalty Decision Against Rangers

David Gray insisted Hibernian’s contentious penalty at Ibrox was the only decision Don Robertson could realistically make once VAR became involved.

Hibs stunned Rangers with a 2-1 win in Glasgow, Josh Campbell converting from the spot before Callum Wright’s stoppage-time solo strike silenced the home crowd. That came after Jordan Obita’s late own goal had briefly ignited belief inside the stadium that Rangers might yet snatch victory.

The flashpoint, though, arrived in the first half. Vanja Dragojević was penalised for hauling down Jason Kerr at a corner, a call that dominated the conversation both during and after the match.

Gray, speaking after full-time, admitted he did not immediately grasp the significance of the incident in real time, but said the footage left officials with a straightforward outcome once they were sent to the monitor.

“Straight away the referees have come in and spoke to us about it,” the Easter Road head coach explained, pointing to recent briefings on grappling and blocking at set-plays. Corners are under the microscope now. Defenders who focus on the man instead of the ball are running a clear risk.

“At the time I didn't think much of it and my goalie coach said straight away it could be a penalty. Then you kind of forget about it after they've broke away and they've pulled it back.”

The break in play gave VAR time to pore over the tangle inside the box. When Gray saw the replay, his view hardened.

“Seeing it back now I think the officials and VAR have no option but to give it. He's put them in a position where they have to give it. He's not looking at the ball, he's impeding the player that's trying to head the ball and the ball lands in that area.

“It's left the referee no choice but to give the penalty and I think it's the right decision.”

Campbell did the rest from 12 yards, setting the tone for a result that will echo around Hibs’ season. The argument over the award may rumble on, but Gray’s stance is clear: in the modern VAR era, that kind of defending is asking for trouble.