Wednesday 11 May 2016 12:15, UK
Hibernian manager Alan Stubbs was perplexed by referee Alan Muir's decision not to award his side a penalty in the 2-2 draw with Falkirk.
The controversy occurred after 71 minutes in the Championship promotion play-off, with Hibs leading the game 2-1, when Falkirk defender David McCracken rolled on the ball with his hand inside the box when he slid in to challenge John McGinn.
Hibernian had rallied after falling behind to a Lee Miller goal with Liam Henderson and Darren McGregor both hitting the target for the hosts, and a successful penalty would have virtually guaranteed advantage ahead of the play-off second leg at Falkirk on Friday.
The Bairns ensured the fixture between the teams ended tied for the fourth time in five games when substitute Bob McHugh scored 10 minutes from the end.
But Stubbs' frustration was compounded when Muir, who has been at the centre of several major penalty claims in the last year, confirmed he had a clear view of the incident.
And the Hibs boss believes the time has come for match officials to clarify their calls in public.
"I am a bit at a loss for words," Stubbs said. "I don't think anyone means to get it wrong but when it's so obvious, it's very surprising that it hasn't been given. It's a huge call.
"The ref told me he's seen it. Why didn't he give it? If he saw it then I think everyone in the stadium knew it was a penalty. He has admitted he saw him touch it.
"This is why I think the referee should explain it. You just want them to get these big calls right. You ask for consistency but you want them to get it consistently right."
