SPL Chief Neil Doncaster is certainly making his presence felt as an outsider in the world of Scottish football administration.
While the old guard struggle to come to terms with modern communications and the greater awareness of supporters Doncaster is a refreshing change, open to ideas and apparently unburdened by the baggage of the past.
The SFA’s u-turn on red card appeals has been incredible considering that their former Chief Executive had claimed that the outdated non-appeal process was in line with the Laws of the Game laid down by Fifa.
Once that little gem had been blown to pieces by eagle eyed supporters the clamber to get on board and provide a genuine appeal procedure has been incredible.
Big George Peat, finding his voice again after criticising Celtic for questioning refereeing decisions, has added his weight to the clamour for a new appeal process independent of the match referee.
Doncaster seems a shrewd character, quietly getting his way and getting the SFA to work with the consent of the clubs rather than living in their own ivory tower.
“The news that George Peat has put forward proposals to improve the appeals system is very positive,” said the SPL Chief.
“Clearly our colleagues at the Scottish FA have been listening to the views of the clubs and the players and I genuinely believe that George’s recommendations, if adopted, will improve the status quo.
“There has been some really good dialogue between us and the Scottish FA recently – long may this continue.”
Doncaster seems to use his limited comments for maximum impact, getting his message across while giving Peat and the SFA respect for their position in the game.
Peat and the blazers seem to be recognising the wind of change coming from their newer colleagues, further developments are eagerly awaited.
a step in the right direction joe. maybe his next statement may be about trying to eradicate all the “honest mistakes” made last season !!!
The appeals system will only apply where the powers that be want it to apply. The corruption within the corridors will always be there. They are ground in. The decisions which are historical with almost ageless smells, are used to maintain the barrier rather than to break it down. As long as incompetents like Hugh Dallas, Stuart Dougal, Dougie McDonald, Ian Brines etc are carrying enough power to be dangerous, they will be. Sadly, there is not one good honest referee in the whole of the SPL. I won’t hold my breath for change. Dallas is a complete and utter disgrace to the integrity of the game, as are his “friends”. They will never change.
cant disagree with that joe. it,s a dirty war though and any advance surely must be welcomed ?
The main issue is that the SFA have never been challenged effectively. Too much deference and apathy. Doncaster seems bright and adventurous, charateristics which have historically been enough to send in the troops – that’s no’ how we dae things here, etc.
Weneed a concerted challenge to the SFA on their standards. Why so many high-salaried posts for a 3rd rate nation? Why 3 ruling bodies, all sucking cash out of our game?