Stokes escapes action after Hendry altercation

Hibs striker Anthony Stokes will not be hit with any retrospective punishment for his off-the-ball clash with Dundee defender Jack Hendry.

Dark Blues manager Neil Mccann was angry at referee John Beaton’s failure to send off Stokes after he appeared to land a low blow right where it hurts on Hendry during a second-half flashpoint on Saturday.

Hendry was left writhing on the ground in agony following the exchange that was sparked by a Ryan Porteous foul on Paul Mcgowan.

However, crucially, Stokes – who subsequently laid on Hibs’ winner for Simon Murray in the 2-1 victory – was booked at the time.

Scottish FA compliance officer Tony Mcglennan is aware of the incident but, with Beaton comfortable with his original decision to show a yellow card, will not be called on to consider further action.

Meanwhile St Johnstone midfielder Paul Paton will similarly not face any extra punishment for his aerial challenge on Celtic skipper Scott Brown at the weekend.

Paton caught Brown with his arm in the second-half of Celtic’s historic 4-0 victory in Perth as the Hoops racked up a 63rd successive domestic match without defeat.

However, referee Bobby Madden is satisfied he took the correct course of action at the time and the matter will not be taken any further.