Steve Conroy, a former Scottish FA referee, criticized Fabio Silva for his “appalling display” during Rangers’ Sunday, April 7, 3-3 draw with Celtic.
In what turned out to be one of the most thrilling Old Firm derbies in years, Silva appeared to dive multiple times, leaving Conroy disappointed.
In the first half, Silva went down clutching his face after what seemed to be little contact, which left Conroy unimpressed.
What an abhorrent display from Silva, the former Grade One referee said in a statement via Daily Record Sport on X on April 7.
“An intentional attempt to trick the referee and have an opponent dismissed.”
The second half saw more controversy surrounding Silva. James Tavernier scored the penalty after VAR overturned the original decision to book the 21-year-old for diving in the penalty area.
After a thrilling Old Firm derby with Celtic, Rangers won’t be thinking about Fabio Silva’s diving.
More than the Wolves loanee’s diving antics, Silva’s lackluster performance will probably irritate Philippe Clement.
Silva didn’t really contribute to the game; he squandered a few excellent opportunities before being replaced, and it was probably fortunate for him to be given a penalty in a contentious situation.
Though Silva’s exaggerated acting won’t take away from what was one of the most thrilling games Scottish football has seen in a long time.
At the end of the game, Rangers will undoubtedly be the team happier because they overcame Celtic twice to earn a point.
Shortly after coming back from a 2-0 deficit to tie the game, the Hoops scored on the other end in what appeared to be the last play of the contest.
But with only a few minutes remaining, Rabbi Matondo produced a breathtaking equalizer that made Ibrox feel like a circus.
With a game remaining, Clement’s team is now one point behind Celtic, and the momentum seems to be with the Gers following Matondo’s incredible last-second play.
In other Rangers news, Silva’s antics did not sit well with James McClean either.
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