SFA ‘fully supports’ referee Don Robertson & releases audio from Celtic v Hearts

After Celtic were awarded a controversial late penalty against Motherwell in the penultimate round of league fixtures, referee John Beaton was placed under police surveillance after his personal details were leaked online.

Last week, Police Scotland confirmed a man, 19, has been charged “in connection with a data protection offence” and will appear in court at a later date.

Now, the Scottish Senior Football Referees’ Association has released a statement saying “irresponsible commentary from some managers, clubs and sections of the media has only served to fuel an already toxic environment”.

It also condemns “unacceptable” pitch invasions – which “must never be accepted as the norm” – and says if these incidents continue it “will reserve all options open to us”.

“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,” the statement said.

“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.

“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.”