Brendan Rodgers was this afternoon hit with a one match ban with a further one match suspended ban for calling John Beaton incompetent. The Celtic manager spoke at the hearing, as did top sports barrister Nick De Marco and the decision means that Rodgers will be free to take his place in the dugout at Ibrox a week on Sunday.
A good result for Celtic
Make no mistake this is a good result for Celtic as the use of the word ‘incompetent’ would normally carry a two-game ban tariff. While that was clear-cut so too was the justification in Rodgers saying what he did as John Beaton’s actions were inexcusable. He has previously flaunted his pro-Rangers bias in a public manner and once again Celtic had every right to call him out. Today’s outcome does nothing to change mids about Beaton who is quite simply not fit for purpose.
More than mere incompetence
Celtic supporters are taking mixed positions on the outcome, with many believing Brendan should not have been punished for telling the truth and calling Beaton out. Many reckon that it was much more than incompetence that Beaton is guilty of.
Meanwhile there is real anger on theRangers forums as they believe that the Scottish FA’s bottle went, to put it politely, if ensuring that Rodgers would be fine for Ibrox. They fear Brendan you know and looking at his results there, you can see why.
Celtic’s disappointment
Celtic FC issued this statement which talks of the club’s disappointment at the outcome but privately they’ll acknowledge that in the circumstances this was a result. Celtic can achieve more by leading the way on VAR reform and that has to include personnel, remits and disciplinary measures for failing to perform the role to a sufficient standard. That applies in most if not all other jobs so why not here?
Celtic Football Club statement
Following a hearing by the SFA disciplinary panel today (Thursday), Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has been issued with a two-match suspension. One match is immediate and will apply to this Sunday’s Premiership game against Livingston, while one match is suspended until the end of the 2023/24 season.
A Celtic Football Club statement said: “Clearly, we are disappointed with the outcome of today’s hearing, although we will accept the panel’s decision.
“The Manager appeared at the hearing today, and his defence was presented robustly and thoroughly.
“Like many other clubs, we will continue to press for the highest standards in relation to the VAR process in Scottish football.”
Following a hearing by the SFA disciplinary panel today, Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has been issued with a two-match suspension.
One match is immediate & will apply to this Sunday’s #cinchPrem game against Livingston, while one match is suspended until the end of the season.
— Celtic Football Club (@CelticFC) March 28, 2024
