Todd Cantwell branded ‘a cheat' over Aberdeen-Rangers flashpoint as ex-referees demand retrospective action

Aberdeen's Richard Jensen tackles Rangers' Todd Cantwell during the 1-1 draw at Pittodrie. (Photo by Craig Williamson / SNS Group)

Former SFA officials hit out at Rangers playmaker following ‘dive’ in Pittodrie draw

Two former top flight referees reckon Todd Cantwell should face an SFA ban for ‘cheating’ in today’s dramatic Aberdeen-Rangers clash.

Steve Conroy and Des Roache feel it’s a recurring theme with the former Norwich midfielder who has been accused of simulation on other occasions.

However, the two ex-Grade 1 officials agree that the VAR penalty review call in the last minute by Nick Walsh that earned Rangers a draw was the right one.

Cantwell looked to deliberately throw his leg out at a static Jamie McGrath to try to win a free kick.

Conroy told www.https:stocklytics.com: “He’s a cheat and he should face a retrospective red card. It’s ridiculous.”

Roache added: “It’s actually embarrassing. He should be hammered for this – and it’s not the first time he’s done it.

“Cheating is the worst thing in football – and that’s what this is. He should be hammered for this.

“I remember Gordon Smith – when he was SFA chief executive – asking for a straight red for simulation and I have always agreed. It’s the only way to stamp this out.”

Both ex-refs agree that the late spot kick award was right. Conroy said: “It’s a shirt pull and it’s a penalty. It was silly stuff from the Aberdeen defender.”