EXCLUSIVE
SFA turn to ex-refs in disciplinary overhaul
THE SFA is set to roll out a new disciplinary system after recruiting former referees to study incidents missed by match officials.
Outgoing compliance officer Tony McGlennan has already used the revamped set- up this season when he opted against raising actions against Steven Naismith and Scott Brown after clashes in the Hearts win against Celtic on Saturday.
Brown was in the firing line for an alleged elbow and Naismith was accused of kicking out at Jonny Hayes after a challenge.
McGlennan showed footage of the flashpoints to three ex-grade one refs – and will no longer pursue red card claims unless there is unanimous agreement from the former officials.
Previously McGlennan and predecessor Vincent Lunny had the power to charge players for potential red card offences missed by match officials at the time.
The controversial system has been branded trial by television with the majority of incidents in games broadcast live or in highlights shows such as BBC Scotland’s Sportscene.
But now the role shifts responsibility from the compliance officer and ex-refs will be asked for their opinions before the SFA raise any actions.
McGlennan briefed chiefs yesterday and an official announcement is expected in the next week.