McDonald: Criticised
21st November 2010
Referees in Scotland have voted to strike next weekend, putting the entire SPL programme at risk, according to Sky Sports sources.
The referees Union north of the border has voted for the action, following a constant barrage of criticism.
The issue has stemmed from referee Dougie McDonald's decision to over-turn a penalty decision against Celtic in their game at Dundee United.
McDonald later admitted to lying about the reason behind his decision and it also led to the assistant referee Steven Craven.
A Scottish FA investigation cleared McDonald but he was warned about the accuracy of his future match reports. Head of referee development Hugh Dallas was also involved in the aftermath of the penalty incident but has denied any wrongdoing.
Earlier this week Celtic chairman John Reid called for McDonald to resign, claiming his position had become 'completely untenable'.
Following McDonald's admission of deception, SFA chief executive Stewart Regan also promised an overhaul of how referees are disciplined.
Critical
Celtic manager Neil Lennon was also critical of McDonald episode and has since questioned refereeing decisions after their defeats to Rangers and Hearts.
The decision to take strike action was reached at a referees' union meeting held on Sunday.
There are six Scottish Premier League scheduled for next weekend. There is also a full card in the Scottish Football League.
The Challenge Cup final between Queen of the South and Ross County at McDiarmid Park is also under threat, as will any Scottish Cup replays.
Support
Former SPL referee Stuart Dougal tonight claimed that match officials had overwhelmingly supported the idea to withdraw their labour.
Dougal told Sky Sports News: "My understanding is it was unanimous and it probably surprised a number of people that there was a groundswell of opinion so strongly agreeing with taking the action that has been suggested.
"I don't think it has been any one thing, there has been a build-up.
"It's not against any criticism over the peaceful fans generally, nor managers and players coming out after a match and putting a point across.
"What's got to referees is the level of abuse, the intensity of the criticism and of the scrutiny.
"A number of referees have aired concern about safety and that is something they have decided they cannot take any longer.
"My understanding is there are referees who believe, not only their own personal safety, but that of their family (is at risk) as well: when it gets to that level it is unacceptable."
The SFA, who assign match officials to their games on a Monday, have not yet commented on the development.
