NEIL LENNON reckons Hibernian were denied a stonewall spot kick as they slipped to a 2-1 defeat to Rangers.

The hosts took an early lead at Easter Road thanks to a Lewis Stevenson strike but a quickfire double from Josh Windass and Alfredo Morelos won it for the Light Blues.

Rangers breathed a sigh of relief when David Bates handled a Simon Murray header and referee Kevin Clancy waved away strong calls for a penalty late on.

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Lennon said: “What’s your take on it? It’s as clear handball that you can see.

“It’s hand to ball, he’s even leaned into it. Linesman has seen it, so how he hasn’t fine it I don’t know.

“Everyone on that side of the ground could see it and you could tell from the reaction.

“I thought we were sensational and didn’t get what we deserved. Sometimes that’s football.

“Hit post twice, worked goalkeeper, missed good chances first half.

“I think the goalie should do better with the two goals. But we were outstanding, two wingers in second half unplayable.

“Can’t keep putting in good balls and not scoring. Flashed umpteen balls across the box and they went begging.

“Standard of football outstanding. We deserved at least a point.”

It was a frustrating night for Lennon as he saw his side produce an impressive performance but leave empty handed.

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Hibs are now six points adrift of Rangers in the battle for second spot in the Premiership ahead of their trip to third-placed Aberdeen this weekend.

Lennon said: “They were battered. I’ve been involved with Celtic – and that was probably biggest battering I’ve given Rangers.

“They camped in for the second half and we controlled it. I’m delighted with the quality.

“People were asking me before the game is this a marker. I said no.

“The marker is over the course of the season. We’re fourth. Still a lot of football to go.

“They’ve got to play Celtic, we need to go and win in Aberdeen to stay on their coat tails.

“But six points is nothing at this stage of the season. We were unfortunate.”