The Scottish Football Association has strongly criticised a 'hysterical media narrative' and taken aim at Hearts manager Derek McInnes after a match official and his family required police protection following controversial refereeing decisions. The official, John Beaton, spent Thursday night under police surveillance after his personal details were leaked online.
The controversy stems from two incidents at Motherwell's stadium: Hearts were denied a penalty in their match, while Celtic were awarded a stoppage-time spot-kick in Wednesday's win. McInnes called the latter decision 'disgusting'. Hearts visit Celtic on Saturday needing a draw to become the first non-Old Firm champions in 41 years.
In a lengthy statement, the Scottish FA said the situation was 'the inevitable consequence of the heightening criticism, intolerance and scapegoating' by media pundits, supporters, clubs and managers. It added: 'Those who have sought to apportion blame and conspiracy towards match officials to deflect from defeats have contributed to an environment that puts the safety of our staff in jeopardy.'
The association warned that such vigilantism is 'a scourge on our national game' and stressed that the incident is not isolated. It called for reflection from those who have 'personalised and hyperbolised their opinions' and created 'an environment of intimidation, fear and alarm'.
Celtic manager Martin O'Neill shrugged off the penalty furore, attributing the reaction to widespread support for Hearts. 'Everybody outside Celtic and the Celtic diaspora wants Hearts to win,' he said.
