I’ve always believed that abuse towards referees manifests the old saying “Football is a gentleman’s game played by hooligans”. Despite my passion for the game, I am even more convinced after hearing this.

Category one officials are understood to have voted to refuse appointments for next weekend’s fixtures following a meeting.

Match officials have dominated the Scottish football agenda since Dougie McDonald rescinded a penalty he initially awarded to Celtic during their 2-1 victory at Dundee United on October 17.

Speaking to Sky Sports News former referee Stuart Dougal said: “What’s got to referees is the level of abuse, the intensity of the criticism and of the scrutiny. A number of referees have aired concern about safety and that is something they have decided they cannot take any longer.

“My understanding is there are referees who believe, not only their own personal safety, but that of their family (is at risk) as well: when it gets to that level it is unacceptable.”

So what are the steps forward? Well, there has been extensive debate about revamping the respect-for-officials campaigns, but all they seem to do is prevent the players from laying their hands on a referee’s shoulder while berating them. They still hurl abuse all the same. Fines and citings might be considered as punishment for players who cross the line.

Another issue that needs to be addressed is the discipline of supporters who vilify officials. Referees are realistic and will tell you that it’s all part of the job description, but there comes a point (like in this case) where you realise that any threat directed at a referees family is intolerable. Football enthusiasts are constantly exposed to the invective that spews from the supporters’ mouths when they disagree with a ref’s decision. It leaves the respectable members of society dumbfounded at the fact that a mere decision warrants such a tongue-lashing.

In all my efforts to frame this alarming story in a jocose manner, I am simply left short of inspiration – I guess that means I am not that barbaric after all then. Maybe the 2 Oceans Vibers can offer some of their wisdom in an effort to contribute something positive to football’s biggest vice.

[Sky News]

Image via BBC News