The Scottish Senior Football Referees’ Association have vowed to “reserve all options open to them” if referee abuse continues.
The eyes of the world were on the Scottish Premiership final as Celtic’s late penalty call against Motherwell drew hysterical reactions from Scotland and beyond.
Referee John Beaton had his address leaked, forcing him to require security. Then, in the title decider at Celtic Park, the officials came into question again.
Don Robertson was accused of improperly ending the game early, but in the end, the SFA have defended both officials as making the right decisions. Now, they have responded to abuse such as that directed to Beaton.
Just how badly has the SFA’s VAR audio from the Premiership finale reflected on Hearts…
SFRA: We will reserve all options open if referee abuse continues
The association said in a statement: “The SSFRA stands firmly alongside our colleagues following the wholly unacceptable reaction to recent refereeing decisions.
“We accept scrutiny is a part of football, but what we have witnessed in the last month has been entirely disproportionate and crossed the line from legitimate debate into behaviour risking the safety of officials and their family.
READ MORE: Celtic-linked Jens Berthel Askou breaks silence on confirmed Toulouse move
“Irresponsible commentary from some managers, clubs and sections of the media has only served to fuel an already toxic environment.
“We therefore welcome the Scottish FA’s call for all stakeholders to act more responsibly in both their language and conduct.
“No referee should be subjected to this abuse, intimidation, threats or the leaking of private information simply for carrying out their duties.
“Such conduct has no place in Scottish football or society more generally. We also note with particular concern the unacceptable behaviour of supporters entering the field of play.
“This dangerous and abhorrent behaviour must never be accepted as the norm.
“We call on the relevant authorities to significantly strengthen their regulatory framework so that meaningful sanctions can be imposed, both as a punishment and as a strong deterrent, before such time as a match official or player suffers serious harm.
Thoughts on the Celtic Park statement by Hearts?
Did they go too far or was it completely justified? Let us know in the comments what you think. Where you at Celtic Park? 👇
“Referees perform a difficult role in an intensely demanding environment and deserve the same respect, and protection afforded to everyone else in the game.
“Scottish football cannot thrive in an atmosphere where referees are subjected to personal attacks for making decisions in the course of their duties.
“Should this behaviour continue, we will reserve all options open to us.
“We urge all stakeholders to work together to ensure Scottish football remains safe for everyone involved.”
Receive a digest of our best Celtic content each week direct to your mailbox
