Dundee surprised by verdict on 'really clumsy' Rangers flashpoint that had serious ramifications

Dundee manager Tony Docherty admits he was left feeling sore when his side were denied a penalty that could have handed them a two-goal lead against Rangers.

In the event, his Dens Park side still managed to secure a point with a 1-1 draw. But Docherty was left wondering what might have been had referee Calum Scott pointed to the spot when Rangers debutant Clinton Nsiala stood on Simon Murray’s foot in the goalmouth and then knocked the Dundee striker to the ground.

To make matters worse, Rangers went up the park and scored through Vaclav Cerny. Both sides had chances to win the game, with Dundee – who also had a goal chalked off for a narrow offside call – perhaps justified in feeling the most hard done by. Rangers also hit the bar through Mohamed Diomande.

“I think it was a penalty, the defender was really clumsy going in on Simon Murray,” said Docherty.“At the time I thought it was really, really clumsy - the fourth official told me they were checking it.

Simon Murray lies on the ground after clashing with Clinton Nsiala during Dundee's 1-1 draw with Rangers. | SNS Group

“I was surprised (by the swiftness with which play re-started), I thought it was a penalty and I thought they should have taken a bit more time over it. We lost our concentration a bit after that for the Rangers goal, but it was an outstanding performance from my team.”

Docherty praised Dundee for their fortitude amid ten injury and illness call-offs, including Lyall Cameron – arguably the team's best player – on the day of the game.

“The mentality, the resilience and spirit of the group to put in that level of performance against Rangers when we’re so threadbare in terms of resources ... we are digging in, we’re really sound defensively and dangerous on the counter attack,” he said.

“Rangers played it a lot in wide areas, which is what we wanted them to do. I was actually disappointed we didn’t take more but it’s a good point. The players deserve huge credit for such a huge performance.”