Scottish FA Denounces ‘Hysterical Media Narrative’ After Referee John Beaton Receives Police Protection
The Scottish Football Association (SFA) has strongly criticized the media and Hearts manager Derek McInnes after referee John Beaton and his family required police protection due to personal details being leaked online. This follows controversial penalty decisions involving Celtic and Hearts, which McInnes branded “disgusting.” The SFA condemned the “hysterical media narrative” and general scapegoating, warning of the severe impact on referee safety and recruitment ahead of a pivotal title decider where Hearts play Celtic.