OURGAME’SAT ROCK BOTTOM
Sutton: Game’s at rock bottom if these aren’t reds
off the hook despite appearing to catch Dundee United’s Cammy Smith with a flying elbow in the Tannadice side’s win in Paisley.
Both players were booked at the time but SFA beaks yesterday said there was “insufficient evidence” to upgrade the offences to reds.
Hibs defender Darnell Johnson lost his appeal against his two-match ban after seeing his yellow card against Celtic last week bumped up to a ban when compliance officer Clare Whyte stepped in.
Rangers keeper Allan McGregor will today learn his fate after being cited for kicking out at Aberdeen’s Lewis Ferguson in last week’s fiery clash at Pittodrie.
Record Sport columnist Sutton admitted he was gobsmacked at the latest controversy to rip through the SFA judicial system.
He said: “It is absolutely astonishing the two of them got off the hook.
“We have seen some incredible decisions on and off the pitch this season but these might be the worst of the lot. This is rock bottom.
“The McGinn incident defies belief. It should have been seen by ref Willie Collum but the fact the compliance officer doesn’t mop up the mess just makes you wonder what is the point in her being there? This is supposed to be a safety net for officials but instead they make things worse.
“Everyone in the country could see McGinn was a clear red card. It as dangerous and deliberate.
“Power was a red as well. You can’t tell me he wasn’t recklessly endangering an opponent going in with his boot at head height like that.
“What does he have to do to get sent off, decapitate Jack?
“We’ve now got to the point where anything goes, whether it’s kicking people in the head, elbowing them or booting them in the testicles.
“The compliance officer is not up to the job but the entire disciplinary process is a shambles. They are not fit for purpose.”
The SFA have taken flak for numerous decisions this season with Rangers, Celtic, Kilmarnock and Hearts among the clubs who have all been publicly critical of the judicial process.
CHRIS SUTTON insists the SFA’s under-fire disciplinary department has hit rock bottom after Alan Power and Paul McGinn dodged bans.
Killie midfielder Power escaped further punishment for kicking Rangers ace Ryan Jack in the face in last Saturday’s Scottish Cup stalemate at Rugby Park. While Saints man McGinn was let