Bobby Madden’s performance in the Glasgow derby has been given the SFA’s seal of approval with the claim that ‘the general feeling is Bobby handled it well.’
Celtic fans were outraged by a number of decisions during the 1-1 draw culminating in a late penalty claim on Leigh Griffiths.
Early on in the match Kenny Miller put in a dangerous two footed challenge that Stuart Armstrong managed to evade while Jason Holt’ scissor foul on Patrick Roberts almost led to a Sevco goal.
Both incidents could have resulted in red cards but Madden had a perfect view of both challenges which seemed straightforward to punish.
Shortly after equalising Hill pulled at Griffiths outside the box then smashed through the Celtic striker as he prepared to shoot.
On television Madden was seen to say ‘he got the ball’ while the post match apologists explained that he couldn’t give a penalty due to his positioning.
On Saturday Madden will referee the Dunfermline Athletic v Ayr United match with the SFA explaining that that choice of match wasn’t a demotion.
“Fixtures for referees are delivered in four or six week ballots and we’re currently on a six week rota,” an SFA source explained to the Daily Record.
“In that time, category one officials will be given charge of two or three Premiership fixtures, a Championship game and will also be handed duties as a fourth official in a top flight match.
“It’s a nonsense to suggest Bobby has been demoted in any way, shape, or form – it was simply his turn to take charge of a Championship fixture this week.
“The Old Firm is an exceptional game but the general feeling is Bobby handled it well. This fixture will always attract controversy.”
With ten FIFA rated referees it’s impossible to give every one a Premieship fixture every week, after taking a Championship fixture this weekend Madden will almost certainly be given a top tier fixture for the weekend of March 31- April 2.