He’s BANNED vs Celtic? Scottish FA have issued a Statement at Derek McInnes after his defamatory post match interview were he called John Beaton’s decision a DISGRACE as indirectly claimed Hoops were being helped by the SPFL, VAR, Officials

The Scottish Football Association has strongly condemned what it described as a “hysterical media narrative” while also appearing to aim criticism at Derek McInnes after revealing one of its referees and his family spent Thursday evening under police protection following controversial incidents that have overshadowed the closing stages of the Premiership season.

McInnes labelled the stoppage-time penalty awarded to Celtic F.C. in Wednesday’s victory over Motherwell F.C. as “disgusting”, with that moment — along with Hearts being denied a penalty in their own match at the same venue days earlier — dominating discussion across Scottish football. Heart of Midlothian F.C. travel to Celtic Park on Saturday requiring only a draw to become the first side outside the Old Firm to lift the title in 41 years.

In a detailed statement, the Scottish FA disclosed that John Beaton, who officiated the Motherwell versus Celtic fixture, was placed under police surveillance after private details about him were leaked online. The governing body made its anger over the situation crystal clear.

“Such vigilantism, motivated by decisions perceived to be right or wrong on a field of play, is a scourge on our national game and we are grateful to Police Scotland for their swift intervention,” the statement said.

“We are also clear, sadly, that this is the inevitable consequence of the heightening criticism, intolerance and scapegoating demonstrated this season by media pundits, supporters, official supporters’ groups, clubs, players, managers and former match officials.

“We do not make that point lightly as the national association. Yet it is an inconvenient truth. Those who have sought to apportion blame and conspiracy towards match officials to deflect from defeats or perceived injustices throughout the season have contributed to an environment that puts the safety of our staff and match officials in jeopardy.

“This is the consequence of a ­hysterical media narrative, fuelled by irresponsible kneejerk post-match media interviews, ­commentary and official social media posts. The ­cumulative effect impacts on our ability to provide enough referees to service our game at all levels. When it compromises the safety and ­wellbeing of our most senior match officials, enough is enough.”

The Scottish FA added that the situation involving Beaton was “not an isolated incident”. It continued: “We will not allow this to become the norm. We will not allow a situation where match officials require special provision to protect their children at school to be considered an occupational hazard. We will not allow a situation where staying at home with the front door locked and avoiding the hazards of public interaction becomes a coping strategy.

“As we approach what should be an exciting finale to the season, we ask those who have personalised and hyperbolised their opinions, those who have sought the easy way out by attributing defeats to perceived refereeing errors, and those who have approved incendiary statements and posts to reflect on their contribution to creating an environment of intimidation, fear and alarm.”

Martin O’Neill, Celtic’s manager, dismissed much of the uproar surrounding Wednesday’s penalty decision. He suggested the reaction reflected the reality that many neutrals across Scotland want Hearts to lift the title.

“Am I surprised? No, I’m not surprised, because everybody wants Hearts to win,” said O’Neill. “It’s really as simple as that. Everybody outside Celtic and the Celtic diaspora wants Hearts to win.”