The Glasgow Derby. A Derby like no other.
Fiercely contested on the park, bitterness surrounds the fixture off it.
As does controversy. The referee appointment for these games will always be a highly contentious affair.
Both sets of fans simply do not trust any official that is charged with the game but when one is a clear and avid supporter of Rangers, like John Beaton is, how on earth can anyone expect the game to be officiated fairly?
But that’s Scottish football for you.
Only in our wee country is this kind of lunacy allowed. Only in our wee country does it go unchallenged.
Except by the fans.
These fans are not happy with Beaton reffing the last Glasgow Derby of the season and it is little wonder.
With so much riding on this one match, all it takes is one ‘honest mistake’ to change the course of the result and that mistake will only benefit one team:
The only country in world football where a ref doesn’t need to say which team he supports, it’s criminal 🍀✌🏻
— Sean McLaughlin (@Seanmac1407) April 28, 2022
This would not be tolerated in any other country. Supporters would not accept it. So why is it tolerated here at all? Only one club can benefit. That club knows it, so takes reckless financial risks as it reduces odds of failing. Moral hazard at play. If £40m needed for survival
— Auldheid (@Auldheid) April 26, 2022
Of the financially reckless club then what pressure does that put on a ref with a Rangers allegiance to ensure that clubs survival? It’s why many think such appointments means game is fixed. I hope his performance is even handed & his decisions are not game changers/influential.
— Auldheid (@Auldheid) April 26, 2022
No way. Would never be accepted in professional Nth American sports (NFL, NBA, NHL, MLB)
btw – if Bobby Madden can referee an Athens derby bc Greek officials want impartiality, why does this concept spark indignant outrage amongst some in Scotland? I think we know why
— Chris (@hampden75) April 26, 2022
After a number of controversial calls and non calls decides it’s a good idea to go to a Rangers pub.That alone shows how poor his judgment is. Should never be near this fixture nor should Madden. Scotland is screaming for competent unbiased officials.
— magee (@Bhoys4life) April 26, 2022
celtic should say something about this madden last week beaton this week ffks its blatant.
— Randal Flagg (@milligan_henry) April 26, 2022
Can’t imagine any other country where a ref, who’s a noted fan of one club, would get to ref that club in any matches, much less a game with biggest rival that has importance. It’s an absurd situation.
— Peter Klein (@peter_klein61) April 27, 2022
