The decision by Scotland's top referees to threaten strike action over the weekend has the potential to be a watershed for the game not only in Scotland but further afield. Referees have long been figures of ridicule for players, managers, fans and pundits alike but I can never remember such a backlash from the men in the middle, especially at such a delicate time when it comes to the future of officiating. One could even argue that their actions could send shockwaves all the way to the top of the football hierarchy.The situation north of the border has escalated to the point where referees are facing death threats from supporters. It has been well documented over the past few weeks that Celtic Football Club have been the main driving force behind the criticism that has faced referees. Ever since Dougie MacDonald overturned his decision to award a penalty kick in their match against Dundee United, manager Neil Lennon as well as senior members of the club (Chief Executive Peter Lawell and Chairman John Reid) have aimed a barage of criticism at the officiating system in Scotland.
It's worth pointing out that while Celtic may be at the forefront of this, it is not just they who are complaining. To many this may seem like Celtic sour grapes but let's look at the situation from a wider point of view. Since the advent of the Premier League and the culture of big money that has accompanied it, refereeing decisions are under much greater scrutiny than before. Strip away the veil of referees being abused and there lies a much larger ticking time bomb. That's why this landmark action could signal a watershed for the game, providing authorities with a choice of which way to go.
Firstly, they could back referees and give them much more help when officiating. Whether that be through video technology or other such means, officials quite simply need the extra eyes and ears provided by television coverage. On the other hand, authorities could completely revamp the system. Make referees as professional as the players with constant training and education to drive up standards. Even if such changes were to be made there are still many fans and even officials at FIFA who believe that refereeing controversy is part and parcel of the game.
This argument seems to be redundant in this day and age. Sports like rugby, cricket and tennis have embraced technology to the extent where one cannot imagine a match without the aid of equipment like HawkEye. So, instead of the pointless back and forth between clubs and governing bodies regarding standards of refereeing, why not trial the use of video technology? That way, everything is completely clear-cut and no-one can argue against a decision.
While strike action may help or hinder their cause, Scotland's referees have the fundemental right to flag up the levels of criticism for all to see. No human being should be subjected to abuse over the simple matter of a game of football. Whichever way the whole saga pans out, I get the feeling that the course of football in the UK is set to change. Whether for better or for worse, we shall just have to wait and see.
(Picture: www.bbc.co.uk/sport)
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