Tracing the root of former referee Steve Conroy’s simulation issue

Speaking on a podcast Steve Conroy voiced his opinion that Reo Hatate should be given a retrospective red card for simulation against Hearts with a two match ban ruling him out of next month’s Scottish Cup semi-final at Hampden.

Conroy’s view was very similar to that of his podcast buddie Des Roache who was advocating similar action on Liel Abada following the Viaplay Cup Final. The two former SFA referees seem to pay extra attention to simulation incidents involving Celtic players.

The Laws of the Game are universal, in no country in the world is a red card produced for simulation, a yellow card is fairly rare with referees reluctant to take action unless it is very clear cut.

Conroy seems to have a long running issue with simulation which is credited with his decision to retire from refereeing at the age of 45 when he had another couple of lucrative years ahead on the SFA circuit.

His career peaked in January 2010 when he was given the Glasgow derby but it was a controversial fixture with a goal from Marc-Antoine Fortune disallowed for no obvious reason and Kyle Lafferty escaping a red card for a brutal attack on Andreas Hinkel.

Following his decision to quit refereeing BBC Scotland reported

Conroy, a doctor by profession, decided to end his career when he was allocated Saturday’s Third Division fixture between Berwick Rangers and Queen’s Park.

Only two years ago he was given the responsibility of refereeing the New Year Old Firm derby.

He was regularly seen as the man in the middle of other high-profile matches, including the Edinburgh derby between Hearts and Hibernian.

Conroy, who became a referee in 1993 and achieved category one status in 2000, is highly respected by managers and players in the Scottish game, particularly for his communication with players.

It seems that regrets over his decision to quit refereeing more than a decade ago continues to colour Conroy’s thoughts on football and refereeing.